Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
If you have a sweet tooth and love breakfast treats that feel both indulgent and comforting, these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are exactly what you need on your plate. Fluffy cinnamon roll pancakes with rich cream cheese frosting (plant-based) create a perfect sweet breakfast or dessert treat everyone will love, marrying the best of two classic favorites into one irresistible dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fluffy and Soft Texture: The pancakes are light, airy, and melt in your mouth on the very first bite, just like traditional cinnamon rolls.
- Rich Cream Cheese Frosting (Plant-Based): The frosting adds a smooth, tangy, and sweet finish that perfectly balances the cinnamon flavors.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, this recipe is easy to prepare without any fuss.
- Versatile Treat: Serve it as a cozy breakfast, a delightful brunch option, or even a sweet dessert for any occasion.
- Customizable Flavors: There are plenty of ways to adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting means pulling together a few simple, yet essential ingredients that each contribute to the perfect balance of flavor, fluffiness, and sweetness in your dish.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and body necessary for fluffy pancakes.
- Baking Powder: Helps the pancakes rise perfectly, ensuring lightness in every bite.
- Sugar (natural): Adds sweetness to both the batter and the cinnamon swirl.
- Ground Cinnamon (natural): Brings that unmistakable warm spice that defines the whole recipe.
- Plant-Based Milk: Adds moisture and keeps the pancakes tender, also suitable for anyone avoiding dairy.
- Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Just a touch in the cinnamon filling to deepen the flavor subtly.
- Natural Gelling Agent: Used to perfect the texture of the cream cheese frosting, making it delightfully smooth.
- Plant-Based Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting, creamy and tangy for an indulgent finish.
- Smoked Turkey Bacon (optional): For those who want a subtle smoky crunch on the side or layered into the dish.
- Pure Vanilla Extract (natural): An aromatic boost that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Variations for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to fit your taste buds or dietary restrictions. Feel free to experiment with these inspired variations to make this dish uniquely yours.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for an extra crunch.
- Fruit-Burst: Mix fresh or frozen blueberries or diced apples into the batter for a fruity surprise inside.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Finish the pancakes with a drizzle of warmed dairy-free chocolate sauce or cocoa nibs for extra decadence.
- Maple Infusion: Swap sugar (natural) for pure maple syrup in the batter to deepen the sweetness naturally.
- Smoked Turkey Slices Addition: Fold in chopped smoked turkey slices for a savory balance against the sweet frosting.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Begin by whisking together the dry ingredients all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar (natural), and a pinch of cinnamon (natural). In a separate bowl, combine plant-based milk, vanilla extract (natural), and a softened plant-based cream cheese to add richness and flavor to your batter. Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined to maintain that fluffy texture.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
Mix sugar (natural) and ground cinnamon (natural) with a tablespoon of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and natural gelling agent to create a thick, spreadable cinnamon filling. This swirl will add a beautiful ribbon of warm spice within your pancakes.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with plant-based butter or oil. Pour a scoop of the batter onto the skillet, then spoon some cinnamon swirl onto the batter and gently swirl it with a knife or skewer. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges are set, then flip and cook the other side until golden. Repeat until all batter is used.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (Plant-Based)
Beat softened plant-based cream cheese with powdered sugar (natural) and a small amount of plant-based milk to reach a smooth, spreadable frosting consistency. Add vanilla extract (natural) for that extra aroma that pulls everything together.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Stack the warm cinnamon roll pancakes, generously spread the cream cheese frosting (plant-based) on top, and if desired, sprinkle with smoked turkey bacon crumbles for a lively twist. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect combination of warm pancakes and cool frosting.
Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh plant-based milk and cream cheese to ensure the best texture and taste in your batter and frosting.
- Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the pancakes tender and fluffy.
- Swirling Technique: Don’t over-swirl the cinnamon filling into the batter; a few generous swirls maintain the visual appeal and flavor pockets.
- Temperature Control: Cook pancakes on medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring they cook through evenly.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust the cream cheese frosting with plant-based milk slowly to reach your preferred thickness for spreading or drizzling.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Garnishes
Top the pancakes with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a handful of toasted nuts, or a drizzle of grape juice reduction for an elegant touch and extra flavor layers.
Side Dishes
Pair with fresh fruit salads or roasted smoked turkey slices to balance the sweetness and add additional textures to your breakfast or brunch table.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pancakes stacked tall with frosting dripping down the sides for a bakery-style presentation, or use individual serving plates with artistic swirls of frosting and cinnamon dust on the side for a chic look that will impress everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness and flavor for quick breakfasts or snacks later.
Freezing
Place individual pancakes between parchment paper sheets and store them in a freezer-safe container; they freeze well for up to one month without losing their wonderful texture.
Reheating
Warm pancakes gently in a toaster oven or on a non-stick skillet over low heat to restore their softness without drying them out; reheat the cream cheese frosting (plant-based) slightly before spreading for best results.
FAQs
Can I make these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend that measures like all-purpose flour and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free to enjoy this recipe without compromising taste or texture.
Is the cream cheese frosting (plant-based) sweetened?
Yes, it’s lightly sweetened with powdered sugar (natural) so it complements the cinnamon pancakes without overpowering them.
Can I prepare the cinnamon swirl ahead of time?
Yes, the cinnamon mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for convenience, making your morning prep even quicker.
What is a natural gelling agent, and why is it needed in the frosting?
The natural gelling agent helps achieve the perfect creamy and spreadable consistency in the frosting without using animal-based ingredients, resulting in a smooth texture every time.
Can I add smoked turkey bacon into the pancake batter?
While you can add small bits for a smoky flavor surprise, it is often best to serve smoked turkey bacon on the side or as a garnish to maintain the integrity of the sweet cinnamon roll taste.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, a delightful way to enjoy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting that brings pure joy right to your breakfast table. Whether you’re treating yourself on a lazy weekend or impressing guests with a sweet brunch surprise, this recipe is sure to become a favorite repeat in your kitchen. Go ahead and try it soon your taste buds will thank you!
Related Posts
- Cranberry Muffins with Orange Zest and Pecans Recipe
- Quick Breakfast Sandwich with Turkey Bacon, Egg and Cheese Delight
- Delicious Cranberry Walnut Bread with Orange Zest Recipe
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting (plant-based) combine fluffy, soft pancakes swirled with a warm cinnamon filling and topped with a rich, tangy plant-based cream cheese frosting. This indulgent breakfast or dessert treat uses simple pantry staples, customizable ingredients, and offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, suitable for a cozy morning or a sweet brunch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3 tablespoons natural sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (natural)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (natural)
- 3 tablespoons plant-based cream cheese, softened
Cinnamon Swirl
- 4 tablespoons natural sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Cream Cheese Frosting (Plant-Based)
- 4 ounces plant-based cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (natural)
- 2–3 tablespoons plant-based milk
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (natural)
Optional
- Smoked turkey bacon, crumbled, for garnish or layering
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, natural sugar, and a pinch of ground cinnamon (natural) in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine plant-based milk, pure vanilla extract (natural), and softened plant-based cream cheese. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the batter fluffy.
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix natural sugar, ground cinnamon (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and natural gelling agent until you get a thick, spreadable consistency. This cinnamon swirl will be swirled into the pancakes during cooking.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with plant-based butter or oil. Pour a scoop of batter onto the skillet, then spoon some cinnamon swirl on top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges are set, then carefully flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter and swirl.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (Plant-Based): Beat softened plant-based cream cheese with powdered sugar (natural) and 2 tablespoons of plant-based milk until smooth and spreadable. Add pure vanilla extract (natural) and adjust the milk quantity to reach your desired frosting consistency.
- Assemble and Serve: Stack warm cinnamon roll pancakes on plates, generously spread or drizzle the cream cheese frosting on top, and if desired, sprinkle with crumbled smoked turkey bacon for a savory contrast. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect combination of warm pancakes and cool frosting.
Notes
- Use fresh plant-based milk and cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain tender, fluffy pancakes.
- Swirl the cinnamon filling gently to preserve both flavor and visual appeal.
- Maintain medium heat to ensure pancakes cook evenly without burning.
- Adjust cream cheese frosting thickness with plant-based milk to your liking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pancakes with frosting
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cinnamon roll pancakes, plant-based cream cheese frosting, vegan pancakes, sweet breakfast, brunch recipe, cinnamon swirl, dairy-free frosting
