Name: Fluffy Vegan Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk); 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 2 tbsp sugar (cane or coconut sugar); 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1 tbsp vegan butter or coconut oil (for cooking); Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp melted vegan butter; Vegan Cream Cheese Icing: 1/4 cup vegan cream cheese, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 1-2 tsp plant milk

Why You’ll Love Fluffy Vegan Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe

Classic cinnamon roll flavor in an easy-to-make pancake form
Fully vegan and dairy-free with easy gluten-free options
Swirled with a rich cinnamon filling that melts into the pancakes
Topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese icing
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing for all ages
Customizable with your choice of plant-based or regular ingredients
Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have
Freezer-friendly for meal prep
Elegant enough for holidays but simple enough for weekday mornings
Totally delicious, fluffy, and satisfying

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pancake Batter

1 ¼ cup milk (plant-based or regular)
2 tablespoon maple syrup
3 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour (regular or gluten-free 1:1 blend)

Cinnamon Swirl

3 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 tablespoon softened butter (vegan or regular)
½ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar

Cream Cheese Icing

½ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoon melted butter (vegan or regular)
2 oz cream cheese (vegan or regular)

Directions

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Stir in the flour until a smooth pancake batter forms with some air bubbles.
In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, cinnamon, and sugar to create the cinnamon swirl mixture. Spoon it into a piping or zip-top bag and set aside.
Prepare the cream cheese icing by mixing powdered sugar, melted butter, and cream cheese until smooth. Set aside.
Heat a greased skillet over medium-low heat. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of batter into the pan for each pancake.
Pipe a cinnamon swirl into the center of each pancake. Pour another tablespoon or two of batter over the swirl to prevent burning.
Cook the pancakes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on both sides.
Drizzle with maple syrup or warmed cream cheese icing before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 pancakes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
Extra Spice: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for a twist
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top
Chocolate Version: Substitute cinnamon with cocoa powder for a mocha swirl
Fruity Touch: Top with sliced bananas, berries, or sautéed apples
Savory Sweet: Add a pinch of salt or miso to the swirl for depth
Coconut Twist: Use coconut sugar and coconut milk for a tropical flair
Protein Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of protein powder to the batter
Low Sugar: Reduce sugar in the swirl or use maple syrup only as a topping
Mini Pancakes: Make silver dollar versions for kids or parties

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Freezer: Freeze pancakes with parchment between layers for up to 1 month
Reheat in Microwave: Heat on a plate for 30–45 seconds
Reheat in Skillet: Warm over low heat with a bit of butter or oil
Reheat from Frozen: Microwave for 1–1.5 minutes or reheat in oven at 300°F until warmed through

FAQs

How do I keep the cinnamon swirl from burning?

Pouring a bit of extra batter over the swirl seals it in and prevents scorching during cooking.

Can I use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose?

No, those flours don’t perform the same and will affect the texture. Stick to regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the fun swirl and sweet flavor. You can even let them help with swirling.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh, but you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately and mix just before cooking.

What type of pan works best?

A non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan gives the best golden crust without sticking.

Can I make this recipe without the cream cheese icing?

Yes! You can serve the pancakes with just maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar.

How can I make the icing thinner?

Microwave it for 10–15 seconds or add a small splash of milk to adjust the consistency.

Are these pancakes freezer-friendly?

Yes, layer them with parchment paper and freeze. Reheat from frozen in the microwave or oven.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. Just double all ingredients and cook in batches, keeping finished pancakes warm in the oven.

What toppings go well with these pancakes?

Fresh fruit, nuts, vegan whipped cream, or extra cinnamon sugar all pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Fluffy Vegan Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are the ultimate cozy breakfast treat, blending the irresistible swirl of a cinnamon roll with the comfort of soft, golden pancakes. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch or a simple family morning, these pancakes are bound to become a favorite. They’re warm, sweet, spiced, and perfect with a drizzle of icing or syrup. Try them once, and you’ll be hooked.