The first bite of a pancake should be an experience, and my Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes deliver just that. Picture this: the cozy scent of cinnamon curling through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet notes of vanilla as these fluffy delights sizzle in the pan. Whenever I whip these up, it feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, a little piece of comfort that transforms any breakfast into a special occasion.
I stumbled upon this recipe when I found myself longing to escape the monotony of fast food and simplify my mornings. With just a handful of ingredients, including rich milk and a hint of melted butter, these pancakes come together effortlessly. They’re not just easy to make but offer a versatility that’s perfect for the whole family—load them up with chocolate chips, fresh blueberries, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts, depending on your mood.
Whether you’re treating yourself to a leisurely weekend brunch or need a quick weekday breakfast, these pancakes will leave you and your loved ones gladly licking the plate clean. Let’s dive into whipping up some delightful pancake goodness!
Why You'll Love This Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes
- These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- The delightful flavor of cinnamon combined with a hint of vanilla creates a warm and inviting taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Their versatility allows you to customize each pancake with your favorite toppings, from chocolate chips to fresh fruit, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Visually, they’re a treat for the eyes, with golden brown fluffiness begging to be drizzled with syrup or sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancake Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up a breakfast delight!
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – This forms the base for your pancakes, giving them that classic soft texture.
- Granulated sugar – A touch of sweetness to enhance the cinnamon flavor.
- Baking powder – Essential for making your pancakes rise and become fluffy!
- Cinnamon – The star spice that gives these pancakes their delightful warmth and aroma.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- Milk – Adds moisture and richness to create a velvety batter.
- Large egg – Provides structure and helps to bind the ingredients.
- Melted butter – Gives the pancakes that wonderful buttery flavor making them even softer.
- Vanilla extract – Adds a hint of sweetness and complements the cinnamon perfectly.
For Toppings (Optional)
- Extra cinnamon – Sprinkle on top for an added flavor kick and beautiful presentation.
- Chocolate chips – Melted pockets of chocolate make for a decadent addition.
- Chopped nuts – Adds a lovely crunch to the soft and fluffy cinnamon pancakes.
- Blueberries or sliced bananas – Fresh fruit options that bring a burst of flavor and nutrition!
With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delicious Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes that will surely become a breakfast favorite!
How to Make Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes
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Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This blend creates a delightful base for our pancakes, ensuring even flavor distribution.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. This will add moisture and richness to your pancakes.
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Combine Both Mixtures: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Remember, small lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes instead of soft and fluffy ones.
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Let the Batter Rest: Allow your batter to rest for about 5–10 minutes. This step is essential as it helps thicken the mixture and contributes to achieving that delightful fluffiness.
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Preheat the Skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to ensure the pancakes don’t stick and develop a lovely golden color.
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Cook the Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until you see bubbles forming and the edges appearing set, then flip them once and continue cooking until they are golden brown.
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Serve with Toppings: Once cooked, remove the pancakes and serve them immediately with your favorite toppings. Enjoy every fluffy bite!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cinnamon Pancake Variations
Get ready to stir up your breakfast game and create delightful twists on your meal!
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Whole Wheat: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. You’ll feel good knowing you’re keeping it wholesome!
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Vegan: Swap the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use almond or oat milk. These pancakes still deliver that fluffy texture!
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs. Everyone can enjoy the fluffy goodness!
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Apple Cinnamon: Add 1/2 cup of finely grated apple for an extra punch of flavor and moisture. It brings a lovely sweetness to each bite!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a unique spicy twist that beautifully contrasts the sweetness. Just a pinch goes a long way!
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate the zest of one lemon into the batter for a bright, refreshing flavor that complements the warmth of cinnamon. It awakens the taste buds!
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Nut Butter Swirl: Drizzle in your favorite nut butter (like almond or peanut butter) into the batter before cooking for an extra creamy texture. This twist adds richness that will have you hooked!
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Pumpkin Spice: For a seasonal treat, replace a portion of the flour with pumpkin puree and add a touch of nutmeg. It’s a fall-inspired delight everyone will adore!
What to Serve with Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes?
Delight your taste buds with a breakfast spread that perfectly complements these warm, fluffy delights.
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Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweet cinnamon pancakes, creating a balanced taste experience. The saltiness cuts through the sweetness, enhancing every bite!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and banana slices adds a refreshing touch. Their natural sweetness and juiciness brighten up your morning meal beautifully.
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Maple Syrup: A classic pairing! The rich, caramel flavor of pure maple syrup drizzled over the pancakes enhances the cinnamon essence, making each bite decadently delicious.
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Creamy Yogurt: A scoop of vanilla or Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pancakes. It’s also a great way to add some protein to your breakfast.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkling granola on top adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of nuttiness that perfectly complements the soft and fluffy texture of the pancakes. It’s a delightful textural contrast!
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Hot Chocolate or Spice Chai: Kickstart your day with a warm drink that pairs well with the pancakes. The chocolate’s richness or chai’s spiciness can enhance the warm flavors of cinnamon.
Let these suggestions elevate your brunch experience and create lasting memories around the table!
How to Store and Freeze Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes
Fridge: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick breakfast or snack.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy these pancakes later, freeze them in a single layer for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven until heated through. They’ll taste just as soft and fluffy as when they were first made!
Serving Tip: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh cinnamon or your favorite toppings right before serving for an extra special treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by whisking together all the dry ingredients and storing them in an airtight container. In a separate container, mix the wet ingredients and refrigerate them until needed. To maintain the quality and fluffiness, avoid mixing the wet and dry ingredients until just before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the batters and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to thicken, then cook as usual. Enjoy breakfast with minimal effort, making your busy mornings feel more manageable!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes, remember that overmixing the batter can lead to dense pancakes, so stir until just combined with small lumps.
- Allowing the batter to rest for 5–10 minutes is crucial for achieving the fluffy texture that you desire.
- Make sure your skillet is preheated to medium heat for the best cooking results, as too hot can burn the pancakes while too cool will not cook them properly.
- For a delicious twist, feel free to add chocolate chips or fresh fruit to the batter for added flavor and excitement.
Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cinnamon for my pancakes?
Absolutely! When selecting cinnamon, look for Ceylon cinnamon (often labeled as “true cinnamon”) for its sweet and subtle flavor. Cassia cinnamon is more common and has a stronger, spicier taste. Visually, Ceylon is lighter in color and has a softer texture.
How should I store leftover pancakes?
You can store leftover Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain their fluffiness. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can quickly warm them in the microwave or toaster oven for a delightful breakfast treat!
Can I freeze these pancakes, and what’s the best method?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes! Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply microwave them for 30-60 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven.
What if my pancakes turn out dense instead of fluffy?
If your pancakes are dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Remember, mix just until combined—some lumps are okay! Additionally, allowing the batter to rest for 5–10 minutes is key for fluffiness, so don’t skip that step. Lastly, make sure your skillet is preheated to medium heat, as this promotes that perfect golden exterior while keeping the inside soft.
Can these pancakes be made gluten-free?
Very! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder is also gluten-free. The results are just as delicious, preserving the wonderful softness and fluffiness you love in these pancakes!
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
Of course! If you have allergies to dairy, you can replace milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk. For the egg, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a suitable substitute. Just remember to check labels on all ingredients to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Nonstick skillet
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Toppings (Optional)
- 1 tsp extra cinnamon for additional flavor
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup blueberries or sliced bananas
Instructions
Directions
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Both Mixtures: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- Let the Batter Rest: Allow your batter to rest for about 5-10 minutes.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Cook the Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
- Serve with Toppings: Remove pancakes and serve them immediately with your favorite toppings.
