Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bake Recipe: A Sweet Breakfast Delight
If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls and pancakes, then this cinnamon roll pancake bake is the perfect fusion of your two favorite breakfast treats. This baked dish features the rich, gooey swirl of cinnamon sugar and the fluffiness of pancakes, all topped off with a creamy cream cheese mixture. It’s an easy, indulgent breakfast that gives you all the comfort of cinnamon rolls without the hassle of making dough from scratch
.
This dish is not only indulgent but also the perfect make-ahead option for meal prepping. Whether you’re planning a holiday brunch or a lazy Sunday breakfast, this recipe will make your mornings much easier. Unlike traditional pancakes that require constant flipping, this cinnamon roll pancake bake allows you to simply mix, pour, and pop it in the oven for a no-fuss morning treat.
In this detailed recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step, offering creative serving suggestions, handy storage tips, and delicious variations. By the end, you’ll know how to make this crowd-pleaser, as well as how to keep it fresh for later.
Why a Pancake Bake?
Baking pancakes instead of flipping them is a simple idea, but it makes a big difference in your kitchen routine. Instead of standing by the stove and flipping individual pancakes, you mix the batter, pour it into a baking dish, and bake everything at once. Not only does this method save you time, but it also makes meal prep easier when you’re cooking for a large group or preparing breakfast for the week.
A pancake bake offers an amazing opportunity to blend flavors and textures that are difficult to replicate with traditional pancakes. In this recipe, we’ve added a swirl of cinnamon sugar and cream cheese to achieve that unmistakable cinnamon roll pancake bake flavor. Furthermore, you can customize it to your liking by adding fruits or other toppings.
For even more pancake inspiration and tips on achieving the perfect texture, be sure to check out our article on why restaurant pancakes are so fluffy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this cinnamon roll pancake bake are quite simple. Chances are, you already have most of them in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Pancake Batter
- 1 cup high-protein pancake mix (recommended: Kodiak Cakes or another high-protein brand)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 egg
- 1 cup almond milk (or any milk you prefer)
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- 1 tablespoon light butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon cane sugar (or granulated sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Cream Cheese Topping
- 2 tablespoons reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon almond milk (or another milk substitute)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Pie dish or baking dish (8-10 inches)
- Toothpick or knife (for swirling the topping)
How to Make the Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, baking powder, cinnamon, vanilla extract, egg, and almond milk. Be careful not to over-mix the batter, as this can make the pancakes dense rather than light and fluffy. Once the batter is smooth, pour it evenly into a greased pie or baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
Next, melt 1 tablespoon of light butter. Combine it with 1 tablespoon of cane sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Pour this mixture over the batter in a swirl pattern. By doing so, you ensure that every bite will have that signature cinnamon roll pancake bake flavor.
Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese Topping
In a separate small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of reduced-fat cream cheese and 1 teaspoon almond milk. This creates a smooth, creamy topping. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture on top of the batter and, using a toothpick or knife, gently swirl the cream cheese and cinnamon sugar together. This technique will create beautiful marbled patterns throughout the bake.
Step 4: Bake
Finally, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cinnamon roll pancake bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will ensure that the bake sets nicely and is easy to cut.
Serving Suggestions
This cinnamon roll pancake bake is versatile, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for something classic or more indulgent, we’ve got you covered with these serving ideas:
Classic Breakfast
To balance the sweetness of the bake, consider serving it alongside scrambled eggs and maple-flavored chicken sausage. The combination of savory and sweet flavors will satisfy all your breakfast cravings.
Sweet Indulgence
For a more indulgent breakfast, drizzle the bake with extra maple syrup or add a dollop of whipped cream on top. You could also sprinkle it with powdered sugar to enhance the sweetness. This version works particularly well for special occasions like birthdays or holidays.
Fresh and Fruity
If you want to lighten things up, serve the bake with fresh fruits such as bananas, strawberries, or blueberries. These fruits not only add freshness but also provide a natural sweetness that complements the cinnamon and cream cheese.
Nutty Additions
For a crunchy texture, consider topping the bake with toasted pecans or walnuts. These nuts will add a delightful contrast to the soft texture of the pancake and the gooey cinnamon swirl.
Looking for more ideas to elevate your pancake dishes? Check out our guide on what are the ingredients for pancakes for more insights.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about a cinnamon roll pancake bake is how easily it can be adapted to suit your preferences. Below are a few variations to inspire your creativity in the kitchen:
Chocolate Cinnamon Pancake Bake
For chocolate lovers, adding chocolate chips to the batter or sprinkling them on top before baking adds a rich, decadent twist. The result is a delightful blend of chocolate and cinnamon, which makes this version feel more like dessert.
Savory Pancake Bake
For a more savory breakfast, omit the cinnamon sugar swirl and instead mix in bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions. This variation pairs perfectly with a side of sour cream or salsa, making it a great option for those who prefer savory breakfasts.
Fruit-Infused Pancake Bake
Adding fresh or frozen fruit to the batter will give your bake a fruity twist. Blueberries, strawberries, and banana slices all work well in this recipe. If you want to take it up a notch, consider topping the bake with a homemade fruit compote.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations of nuts, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. The possibilities are endless!
Storage and Reheating Tips
This cinnamon roll pancake bake stores exceptionally well, making it a great option for meal prep. Follow these storage tips to keep your bake fresh and delicious:
Refrigerate
Once baked, allow the dish to cool completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Freeze
For longer storage, cut the bake into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The bake will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, microwave the frozen portion for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
These tips make this recipe perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick, nutritious breakfast.
FAQs: Common Questions Answered
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the pancake mix with a gluten-free alternative. Ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well to avoid cross-contamination.
2. How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter and cream cheese.
3. How long does the pancake bake last?
Stored in the fridge, the bake will last for up to 5 days. In the freezer, it will remain fresh for up to 3 months.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Doubling the recipe is simple—just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure it cooks evenly.
5. Why is my pancake bake too dense?
Over-mixing the batter could lead to a dense texture. To avoid this, mix the ingredients just until they’re combined to keep the bake light and fluffy.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Breakfast Recipe
This cinnamon roll pancake bake brings together the best of two breakfast favorites—cinnamon rolls and pancakes—in one easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re