These Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes are fluffy treats swirled with a sweet cinnamon mix. They’re perfect for breakfast or brunch and will make your kitchen smell amazing!
I like to serve them with a drizzle of syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Who can resist a pancake that tastes like a cozy cinnamon roll? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works perfectly, but if you need a gluten-free option, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Granulated Sugar: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, coconut sugar or honey can work, just adjust the amount slightly as they have different sweetness levels.
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich taste, but you can substitute with almond milk, soy milk, or any dairy-free milk if preferred.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential, but if you want a twist, consider using a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg for added warmth.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar will both work. You can also use maple sugar for a unique flavor.
How Do I Make a Perfect Cinnamon Swirl?
Creating the perfect cinnamon swirl can be tricky, but don’t worry! Here’s a simple way:
- Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until smooth – this will be your swirl mixture.
- Pour pancake batter onto the griddle first, then immediately add the swirl mixture on top.
- Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl it into the batter without overmixing, allowing for that delicious cinnamon look.
This gentle swirling technique ensures a lovely pattern that looks as good as it tastes!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Pancakes?
Cooking pancakes can be simple if you follow these tips:
- Use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned griddle, making sure it’s heated to medium. This prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake to keep them uniform in size.
- Watch for bubbles on the surface before flipping, which indicates they’re ready. Cook the second side until golden brown.
These steps will help you achieve fluffy pancakes with a golden-brown exterior every time!
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Optional Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying your scrumptious pancakes in just under half an hour! Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This will be the dry pancake mix that creates a fluffy base for your pancakes!
2. Mixing the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine the milk, large egg, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until they’re well blended and form a smooth mixture.
3. Combining Wet and Dry:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Give it a gentle stir until everything is just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps—do not overmix, as that can make your pancakes tough!
4. Making the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until it becomes a spreadable paste. This is the delicious swirl that will give your pancakes that wonderful cinnamon flavor!
5. Heating the Pan:
Heat a griddle or a non-stick pan over medium heat. If you think it needs it, lightly grease the surface with some butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
6. Pouring the Batter:
Take about ¼ cup of pancake batter and pour it onto the heated griddle, making round shapes. Feel free to make a few pancakes at a time, as long as there’s enough space between them!
7. Adding the Cinnamon Swirl:
On each pancake, take about a teaspoon of the cinnamon mixture and drop it on top. Use a toothpick or the tip of a knife to create a gentle swirl in the batter, being careful not to mix it too much.
8. Cooking the Pancakes:
Watch for bubbles to form on the surface of the pancakes, and the edges to start looking set—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. When ready, flip them carefully and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
9. Making the Glaze (Optional):
If you want to add a sweet glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and adjust the consistency as desired—aim for a pourable glaze!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Stack your fluffy pancakes high, drizzle them with the glaze, and serve warm with maple syrup. Each bite will be filled with delightful cinnamon swirls and sweetness. Enjoy immediately!
These cinnamon swirl pancakes are sure to delight with their fluffy texture and warm, comforting flavors. Happy cooking! 🥞✨
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that it may result in a denser texture. You might want to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter pancake while still adding some whole grain goodness.
How Do I Store Leftover Pancakes?
Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them by placing parchment paper between each pancake and sealing them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave!
What Can I Use Instead of Egg for a Vegan Option?
If you’re looking to make these pancakes vegan, you can substitute one egg with ¼ cup of mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water, let it sit for a few minutes until thickened).
Can I Make the Pancake Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time! Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 24 hours. Give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken while chilling.
