Flour: Use freshhigh-quality all-purpose flour for optimal texture.
Cinnamon: Freshhigh-quality ground cinnamon makes a remarkable difference.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to precisely control salt levels.
Dietary Considerations:
Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Dairy-Free: Replace milk with almond or oat milk.
Vegan: Use plant-based milk and an egg replacer.
Instructions
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of flour until a smooth, spreadable paste forms. The consistency should be easy to pipe but not runny.
Mix the Pancake Batter:
In one bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 2 cups flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 2 large eggs, 1 3/4 cups milk, and 1/4 cup melted butter.
Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. (A few lumps are okay; over-mixing can make the pancakes tough.)
Swirl Technique:
Transfer the cinnamon mixture into a squeeze bottle or piping bag.
As you pour each pancake batter onto the preheated griddle, immediately squeeze a swirl of the cinnamon mixture on top. The heat will help create beautiful, intricate patterns.
Cooking to Perfection:
Cook pancakes on a medium-heat griddle or frying pan. Wait for bubbles to form on the surface, then flip and cook until the other side is golden brown. The cinnamon swirls will peek through, adding a touch of edible art.
Serve:
Serve the pancakes hot, and enjoy a breakfast that feels like a celebration!
Notes
Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle a cream cheese glaze over the pancakes for extra indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for added texture.
Seasonal Pumpkin Twist: Add 1/4 cup pumpkin puree to the batter during fall for a festive flavor.
Chocolate Lover's Dream: Mix mini chocolate chips into the cinnamon swirl for a sweet surprise.
Tropical Surprise: Incorporate shredded coconut and a dash of rum extract for a unique twist.