Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes Recipe

If there’s one breakfast delight that instantly makes lazy mornings feel extra special, it’s these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes. Picture fluffy, tender pancakes bursting with a gorgeous, gooey cinnamon swirl that’s sweet, buttery, and perfectly spiced. Each bite offers a warm hug of cinnamon magic swirled right into the batter, making these pancakes so much more than your everyday flapjacks. Whether you’re starting your day or whipping up a weekend brunch, these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes promise a cozy, delicious experience that’s simply unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you dive into making these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes, let me tell you the beauty is in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving the perfect fluffy texture, mouthwatering sweetness, and that golden-brown color that makes these pancakes so irresistible.

• ¾ cup milk: Reacts with vinegar to create a buttermilk effect that keeps pancakes tender and light.
• 1 tablespoon vinegar: Adds acidity to sour the milk and activate the baking soda.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that forms the fluffy pancake body.
• 2 tablespoons sugar: Gives just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon swirl.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the pancakes rise for that airy texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to give the perfect fluffiness.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances flavor and enhances the sweetness.
• 1 egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Infuses flavor and moisture into the batter.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for cinnamon swirl): Adds buttery richness to the cinnamon swirl filling.
• ¼ cup brown sugar: Deep, caramel notes for the swirl’s luscious sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice that gives the swirl its warm, comforting flavor.
• 1 tablespoon flour (for swirl): Helps thicken the cinnamon mixture so it swirls perfectly in each pancake.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Buttermilk Base

Start by combining the milk and vinegar in a medium bowl and set it aside for about 5 minutes. This slightly sour milk simulates buttermilk’s tangy richness, which is key for tender pancakes with wonderful rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients create the structure and help your pancakes become fluffy and golden.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Whisk the egg and melted butter into the soured milk mixture until smooth. This blend enhances both flavor and texture, ensuring each pancake has that buttery, moist crumb.

Step 4: Form the Pancake Batter

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and whisk gently until the batter has no lumps. Be careful not to overmix, as a few small lumps are perfectly fine and help keep the pancakes light.

Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour to make the cinnamon swirl. It should be thick but pourable; if it seems too thick, just add a little extra milk to loosen it up.

Step 6: Cook the Pancakes With Cinnamon Swirls

Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Spoon small circles of batter onto the surface. Immediately drizzle your cinnamon swirl mixture on top, using a squirt bottle or a bag with a snipped corner to create those gorgeous swirls. Cook until small bubbles form on the surface, then carefully flip and cook for another 30 seconds. That’s it—dinner’s calling!

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes

Garnishes

These pancakes don’t need much, but a light brush of melted butter is divine for keeping them tender and shiny. Avoid syrup if you want the cinnamon swirl to shine on its own, but a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can add a lovely touch.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes with crispy bacon or breakfast sausages to balance the sweet cinnamon with savory goodness. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or banana adds a refreshing pop of color and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your pancakes and top with a little dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for a charming rustic look. Or serve them with a side of warm apple compote to echo that cozy cinnamon vibe. These pancakes are a feast for both eyes and taste buds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to 2 days, making speedy breakfasts a breeze.

Freezing

These pancakes freeze wonderfully. Lay the cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then stack them with parchment paper between each and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, pop pancakes in the toaster or microwave for a quick warm-up. The toaster crisps the edges nicely while keeping that cinnamon swirl soft and melty.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of soured milk?

Regular milk works but your pancakes won’t be as tender or fluffy. The vinegar in the recipe creates a buttermilk effect that activates the baking soda for lift and flavor.

What’s the best way to drizzle the cinnamon swirl?

A squirt bottle or a plastic bag with a tiny corner snipped off makes it much easier to create neat swirls in the batter before cooking. Otherwise, a small spoon can work if you’re careful!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free for similar delicious results.

How thick should the pancake batter be?

It should be thick enough to hold shape when scooped but still pour slowly. If it’s too runny, add a bit more flour; too thick, add a splash more milk.

Is it okay if my cinnamon swirl hardens on the pancake?

If the cinnamon mixture is too thick, it may harden and peel off. Thin it with a little milk or melted butter to keep it soft and nicely marbled in every bite.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes enough. They bring together the perfect balance of fluffy, buttery pancakes with that warm cinnamon sweetness swirled right in. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a comforting breakfast treat that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a stack today!

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