These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are the perfect mix of fluffy pancakes and sweet, spicy goodness! They are packed with pumpkin flavor and topped with a swirly cinnamon topping.
Imagine waking up to these delicious pancakes! I love to drizzle extra frosting on mine—because why not? They make breakfast feel a little extra special! 🥞🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This gives structure to the pancakes. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose blend instead!
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is convenient, but you can use homemade puree if you prefer. Just ensure that it’s smooth and well-cooked. For a unique flavor, consider using sweet potato puree.
Buttermilk: This adds a nice tang and helps the pancakes rise. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes to sour.
Cinnamon Swirl: Brown sugar and cinnamon are key for that classic cinnamon roll flavor. You can also mix in a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist!
Cream Cheese Glaze: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk for a lighter topping. Adjust the sweetness as per your taste.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl in My Pancakes?
Creating a beautiful cinnamon swirl takes a little practice, but it’s easy! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your cinnamon mixture is wet enough to swirl easily. If it’s too thick, it won’t create a good design.
- Spoon the cinnamon mixture directly onto the pancake batter right after you pour it on the skillet. This ensures it’s absorbed while cooking, which helps form a nice swirl.
- Use a small toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the mixture. Don’t go too deep; just graze the top layer of batter to avoid mixing it all together.
- Keep the heat medium to allow the pancake to cook through without burning, which also helps the swirl set nicely.
By following these tips, you’ll have beautiful swirls in your pancakes every time! Enjoy your delicious morning treat!
How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon for dusting
- Maple syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 20 minutes to cook, making it a fantastic breakfast option ready in about 35 minutes. You’ll have mouthwatering pancakes filled with pumpkin flavor and a delightful cinnamon swirl!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pancake Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves). In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until everything is smooth and well combined.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until they are just combined; a few lumps are okay! Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your pancakes fluffy.
3. Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This will add a delicious swirly flavor to your pancakes!
4. Heat the Skillet:
Set your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent the pancakes from sticking.
5. Cook the Pancakes:
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Then, immediately spoon about 1 teaspoon of your cinnamon swirl mixture on top of the batter in a spiral shape. Use a toothpick or small skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the pancake batter for that perfect cinnamon roll effect.
6. Check for Doneness:
Let the pancakes cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges look set. Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 2 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Repeat Cooking the Remaining Pancakes:
Continue the process with the rest of the batter and cinnamon mixture, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
8. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze:
In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Mix until creamy and smooth. If you’d like a thinner glaze, add more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Stack your fluffy pancakes on a plate and drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the top. Add some whipped cream and a dusting of ground cinnamon for a festive touch. Don’t forget a splash of maple syrup on the side for extra sweetness!
Enjoy these fluffy, pumpkin-spiced pancakes as a delightful breakfast or brunch treat that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Other Types of Flour?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just note that the texture may vary slightly, with whole wheat flour giving a denser pancake.
Can I Make the Pancakes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pancake batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it might thicken overnight. You can also make the pancakes ahead of time and reheat them in the toaster or microwave.
What Should I Do With Leftover Pancakes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just layer with parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they’ll last for about a month. Reheat in the toaster or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Can I Adjust the Spice Levels?
Definitely! Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of spices to suit your taste. If you love a stronger pumpkin spice flavor, add a touch more of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. You can also omit spices if you prefer a more subtle flavor.
