Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes with Glaze Recipe

If you’re a pancakes lover looking to add a little magic to your morning routine, you’re in for a treat. This Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes with Glaze Recipe is one of my all-time favorites – it’s fluffy, perfectly spiced, and that sweet cinnamon swirl paired with a creamy glaze? Absolute heaven. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed how simple it was to make yet how much it tastes like those classic cinnamon rolls we all adore. I promise, once you make these, your breakfast game will never be the same!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a pancake that’s light, fluffy, and packed with cinnamon goodness. I love using a mix of oat flour and gluten-free baking flour; it adds a great texture and keeps things wholesome.

• Egg: Helps bind the batter and adds richness.
• Apple sauce: A great natural sweetener and moisture booster, plus it makes these pancakes vegan-friendly if you swap the egg.
• Maple syrup: For a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
• Milk of choice (I prefer almond): Keeps the batter smooth; use whatever milk you like best.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Oat flour: Adds heartiness and a slight chewiness that I adore.
• Gluten-free all-purpose baking flour: Or regular flour if you’re not avoiding gluten; it helps the pancakes rise nicely.
• Baking powder: The secret to fluffy pancakes!
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Cinnamon: The star spice of the show – don’t skimp on it!
• Almond butter: For the swirl – creamy and nutty, it adds amazing texture.
• Additional maple syrup: To mix with the almond butter and cinnamon, making the swirl irresistibly gooey.
• Cream cheese (room temperature, plain): This is for the glaze, you can use dairy-free or regular depending on your preference.
• Milk (for glaze): Just a splash to thin out the glaze perfectly.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the glaze.

Variations

One of my favorite parts about this Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes with Glaze Recipe is how easy it is to personalize depending on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. I often tweak the recipe a bit to keep things exciting.

• Vegan-Friendly: Swap the egg for a flax egg and use dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze — it works beautifully without losing any flavor.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter for the swirl if you have nut allergies.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon mixture for a festive twist that will wow your guests.
• Extra Fruity: Toss in some fresh blueberries or thinly sliced apples into the batter before cooking – it adds a refreshing surprise inside each pancake.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes with Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

I like to start with the cinnamon swirl because it needs to sit while you make the batter. Just combine almond butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. The texture here is key – it should be thick but pourable. I discovered that putting the swirl into a squeeze bottle (or a zip-top bag with a small corner snipped off) makes swirling it into perfect shapes on the pancakes a breeze!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients for Pancakes

In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, apple sauce, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and shiny. This is where your batter starts coming to life, and getting it well blended here saves you from lumps later.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Combine

Next, whisk in oat flour, gluten-free baking flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir just until everything is combined — don’t over mix it or you risk dense pancakes. The batter should be slightly thick but still scoopable.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes with Your Cinnamon Swirl

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat; patience here is a virtue because lower heat helps pancakes cook through without burning. Scoop about 1/4 or 1/3 cup batter onto the skillet and gently smooth the top. Quickly swirl your cinnamon mixture on top using your squeeze bottle or zip bag. Let pan for around 2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then carefully flip and cook another 1-2 minutes. Move cooked pancakes to a wire rack to keep them from steaming and getting soggy. This recipe yields approximately six small to medium pancakes, perfect for a weekend brunch.

Step 5: Whisk the Glaze and Drizzle

While your pancakes cook, whisk together room-temperature cream cheese, milk, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Once your pancakes are all done, drizzle this glaze generously over the top. I love how the tang of the cream cheese glaze balances the sweet cinnamon swirl—it’s just perfect.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes with Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping these pancakes with a generous sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. Fresh fruit such as sliced bananas, berries, or even thin apple slices also adds brightness and freshness that contrast the rich glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your pancakes with some crispy turkey bacon or a side of scrambled tofu for protein-packed balance. A warm cup of chai tea or a creamy latte completes the cozy breakfast vibe perfectly in my kitchen.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like stacking the pancakes high and piping additional cinnamon swirl on the sides, then drizzling the glaze like a waterfall. Add edible flowers and a dusting of powdered sugar to really impress guests with a breakfast that feels extra festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pancakes store great in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I’ve found that layering parchment paper between them prevents sticking, making it so easy to grab just a couple for a quick breakfast later.

Freezing

Freezing is a lifesaver! I freeze pancakes flat on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they don’t stick together, and you can pop them out one or two at a time whenever you want a quick cinnamon treat.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a toaster or skillet over medium heat to maintain that light, fluffy texture. I avoid microwaving because they tend to get a little rubbery, but if you’re in a rush, a quick 20-second zap in the microwave with a damp paper towel helps keep moisture in.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes with Glaze Recipe turns out every time I make it. It’s like having your favorite cinnamon roll for breakfast but without all the fuss and sugar overload. Whether it’s a cozy weekend morning or a special brunch with friends, these pancakes bring everyone to the table with smiles. I hope you enjoy making and eating them as much as my family and I do — trust me, once you try this, you’ll keep coming back for more.

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