When it comes to breakfast or brunch, there's nothing quite like a stack of delicious pancakes. And if you're a fan of cinnamon rolls, then you're in for a treat! These pancakes taste just like cinnamon rolls but are much faster to make. Instead of the traditional maple syrup, they are topped with a decadent cream cheese drizzle that takes them to the next level.
Let's start with the ingredients. For the pancakes, you'll need all - purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, milk, an egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. The combination of these basic pantry staples will create the perfect pancake base with that lovely cinnamon flavor.
First, in a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine the all - purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Make sure to break up any clumps so that the dry mixture is well - blended. This step is crucial as it ensures that the pancakes will have a consistent texture and flavor.
In a separate medium - sized bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Pour in the milk, crack in an egg, add the melted butter, and a splash of vanilla extract. Use a fork or a whisk to gently combine these ingredients until they are smooth. The melted butter adds richness to the pancakes, while the vanilla extract gives them a warm and inviting aroma.
Now, slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to fold the mixture together. Be careful not to over - mix; a few lumps in the batter are okay. Over - mixing can make the pancakes tough. Once the batter is mostly combined, let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
While the batter is resting, it's time to prepare the cream cheese drizzle. You'll need cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and a bit of vanilla extract. In a small bowl, soften the cream cheese at room temperature. Then, add the powdered sugar, a little milk at a time, and the vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture until it's smooth and has a drizzling consistency. You can adjust the amount of milk depending on how thick or thin you want the drizzle to be.
Heat a non - stick skillet or griddle over medium - low heat. Pour a small amount of butter onto the skillet and spread it evenly. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Use the back of a ladle or a spoon to spread the batter slightly if needed.
As the pancakes cook, you'll notice small bubbles forming on the surface. This is a sign that it's time to flip them. Use a spatula to carefully flip the pancakes over. Cook the other side until it's golden brown. Repeat this process until all the batter is used up.
Once the pancakes are cooked, stack them on a plate. Drizzle the cream cheese mixture generously over the top of the pancakes. The cream cheese drizzle adds a tangy and sweet element that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon - flavored pancakes. You can also sprinkle some additional cinnamon on top for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
These cinnamon roll - inspired pancakes are not only delicious but also a great way to start your day. They are perfect for a lazy weekend brunch with family or friends. You can customize them further by adding some chopped nuts or fresh fruits on top. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these pancakes are easy to make and are sure to become a favorite in your household.
So, the next time you're craving something sweet and comforting for breakfast or brunch, skip the time - consuming cinnamon rolls and whip up a batch of these amazing pancakes. With their quick preparation time and mouth - watering taste, they are the ideal choice for any morning.
Moreover, you can experiment with different variations of these pancakes. For example, you can add some raisins or chocolate chips to the batter for an extra burst of flavor. You can also play around with the cream cheese drizzle by adding different extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist.
When it comes to serving, you can make a whole spread. Pair the pancakes with a side of fresh orange juice or a cup of hot coffee. You can also serve them with a small bowl of fresh berries on the side. This not only adds a pop of color to the plate but also provides a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants.
In conclusion, these cinnamon roll pancakes are a wonderful addition to your breakfast and brunch repertoire. They offer the taste of cinnamon rolls in a much more convenient and quicker form. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy a delicious stack of these pancakes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and start your day off right.
