How to Make Pancakes with Cinnamon and Sugar

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm stack of fluffy pancakes topped with the delicious mix of cinnamon and sugar. Whether you’re having breakfast or a sweet dessert, these pancakes are always a hit. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family or friends.

For those who want to try a fun variation, check out this cinnamon brown sugar pancake guide for another tasty twist.


Why Cinnamon-Sugar Pancakes Are So Popular

Pancakes have been a go-to breakfast for generations. However, when you add cinnamon and sugar, they become something even more special. The warm taste of cinnamon mixed with sweet sugar brings back memories of classic treats like cinnamon rolls and churros. As a result, these pancakes give you a cozy and familiar feeling with every bite.

In addition to tasting great, they can offer some health perks. For example, cinnamon is packed with antioxidants and can help balance blood sugar levels. Therefore, this recipe is not just tasty but can also be beneficial. If you’re a fan of warm breakfast dishes, you may want to try this baked German pancake, which offers a similar comforting flavor.


Ingredients You’ll Need

To make light and fluffy cinnamon-sugar pancakes, you’ll need the following ingredients. They are simple and easy to find in most kitchens.

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – This is the base that gives the pancakes their structure.
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the batter.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds the warm, spicy flavor that defines this recipe.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup milk (or non-dairy option) – Adds moisture and softness.
  • 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil – Keeps the pancakes moist and tender.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the cinnamon flavor.

Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Tip: You can switch all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. In addition, using almond or oat milk instead of regular milk works perfectly for dairy-free diets. Moreover, brown sugar can replace granulated sugar if you prefer a deeper, caramel-like flavor.


Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cinnamon-Sugar Pancakes

Follow these easy steps to make perfect pancakes every time.

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

First, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. This step is important because it ensures that all the ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing any clumps.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. By mixing the wet ingredients separately, it’s easier to combine them with the dry ingredients without overmixing.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy—overmixing can result in dense pancakes. Instead, keeping some lumps will help create fluffier pancakes.

Step 4: Preheat the Pan

Before you start cooking, preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil. To test if the pan is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water on its surface. If they sizzle and disappear quickly, the pan is ready to use.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Once the pan is hot, scoop ¼ cup of batter onto the surface for each pancake. Let the pancakes cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to set. Flip the pancakes carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

While the pancakes are still warm, sprinkle them generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. For extra flavor, brush the pancakes with melted butter before adding the topping.


Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon-sugar pancakes are delicious on their own, but adding a few extra toppings can make them even more special. Here are some ideas:

  • Classic: Top with butter and drizzle with warm maple syrup for a traditional breakfast.
  • Fruity: Add fresh berries, sliced bananas, or caramelized apples for a burst of natural sweetness.
  • Churro Style: Roll the pancakes in extra cinnamon-sugar for a crispy, sweet coating.
  • Cinnamon Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, cinnamon, and milk to give the pancakes a dessert-like touch.

For more topping inspiration, check out this strawberry rhubarb crisp guide to see how fruits can make your breakfast even more exciting.


Tips for Light and Fluffy Pancakes

To ensure your pancakes turn out soft and fluffy every time, keep these tips in mind:

  1. Don’t overmix the batter: Stir gently until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can cause dense pancakes due to too much gluten.
  2. Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes lets the baking powder activate, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
  3. Use medium heat: Cooking on medium heat ensures the pancakes cook evenly without burning on the outside or staying raw in the middle.

Common Pancake-Making Mistakes to Avoid

Although making pancakes is simple, a few mistakes can ruin the texture. Avoid the following errors:

  • Cooking on high heat: High heat may cause the outside to cook too quickly while the inside remains raw. Instead, stick to medium heat for the best results.
  • Overmixing the batter: Too much mixing can create tough pancakes.
  • Skipping the resting period: Without resting, the batter won’t fully absorb moisture, leading to flatter pancakes.

Fun Variations on Cinnamon-Sugar Pancakes

Cinnamon-sugar pancakes are tasty as they are, but you can experiment with these fun ideas to add variety:

1. Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Swirl a cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter while cooking to create a cinnamon roll effect. Top with cream cheese glaze for a decadent breakfast.

2. Churro Pancakes

After cooking, brush the pancakes with melted butter and roll them in extra cinnamon-sugar. As a result, you’ll get pancakes with a crispy, sweet coating similar to churros.

3. Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Fold grated apples into the batter for added moisture and sweetness. These pancakes pair perfectly with caramel sauce or whipped cream.

If you’re in the mood for more dessert-inspired breakfasts, you might enjoy these blueberry pie cookies for a sweet treat.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can store the batter in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, give it a quick stir.

2. How do I reheat leftover pancakes?

Reheat pancakes in a toaster for crispy edges, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

3. Can I freeze pancakes?

Absolutely! Place parchment paper between each pancake and store them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months.

4. What’s the secret to fluffy pancakes?

  • Don’t overmix the batter.
  • Let the batter rest before cooking.
  • Make sure your baking powder is fresh.

Nutritional Information

For a serving of three pancakes with cinnamon and sugar, you can expect:

  • Calories: 320-400
  • Carbohydrates: 50-55g
  • Protein: 8-10g
  • Fat: 8-12g

To make them lighter, consider reducing the sugar or using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.


Conclusion

Cinnamon-sugar pancakes are a simple but tasty way to brighten your day. With easy ingredients and simple steps, they’re a dish you can enjoy anytime. Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings or try new variations to make them your own. For more inspiration and a delicious recipe, check out Pastry & Beyond’s Cinnamon Sugar Pancakes

For another sweet breakfast idea, try this delicious apple cream cheese streusel buns guide.

Enjoy your perfect stack of cinnamon-sugar pancakes and create sweet memories at the breakfast table!

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