If you’re looking to start your day with a breakfast that feels like a warm hug from the inside, these VANILLA CINNAMON BUTTERMILK PANCAKES are exactly what you need. Fluffy, tender, and bursting with comforting vanilla and cinnamon flavors, they turn a simple pancake stack into a memorable morning feast. The buttermilk adds a delightfully tangy depth while keeping the texture light and airy, and the cinnamon lends just the right touch of cozy spice. Trust me, once you try these, they will quickly become your go-to pancake recipe for weekend brunches or whenever you want a taste of pure pancake bliss.

VANILLA CINNAMON BUTTERMILK PANCAKES Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial because each one plays a starring role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that golden color we all love in pancakes.

1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that creates structure and helps your pancakes hold their shape.
1 tablespoon sugar: Provides a subtle sweetness to complement the vanilla and cinnamon.
1 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that helps make the pancakes fluffy and light.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the buttermilk to give lift and tenderness.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic spice that elevates the flavor immensely.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess, making the pancakes irresistibly soft.
1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
2 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for cooking): Delivers buttery flavor while keeping the texture tender.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a sweet, fragrant finish that lights up every bite.

How to Make VANILLA CINNAMON BUTTERMILK PANCAKES

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. Getting these dry ingredients evenly mixed ensures that every pancake has just the right amount of leavening and spice, and no surprises like clumps of baking powder lurking around.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients Separately

In a different bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. This mix will infuse your pancakes with moisture and rich flavor, creating a beautiful contrast to the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Gently Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and fold them together gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix—the little lumps are totally fine and actually help keep the pancakes light and tender. Letting the batter rest for 5 minutes here will give the leavening components time to work, resulting in even fluffier pancakes.

Step 4: Cook Your Pancakes

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush it with melted butter to prevent sticking. Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2 to 3 minutes, then flip and cook the other side for 1 to 2 minutes until golden and cooked through.

How to Serve VANILLA CINNAMON BUTTERMILK PANCAKES

Garnishes

These pancakes are already bursting with vanilla and cinnamon flavor, but topping them with a drizzle of warm maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a handful of fresh berries takes the experience to another level. For an extra treat, why not add a dollop of whipped cream or a pat of melting butter that seeps into every fluffy bite?

Side Dishes

Pair your pancake stack with crispy bacon or savory sausage links for a classic brunch combo that balances sweet and savory. Fresh fruit like orange slices or grapefruit segments add brightness and freshness to the plate, while a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a rich cup of coffee rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

To make your VANILLA CINNAMON BUTTERMILK PANCAKES feel extra special, try layering them with cream cheese and cinnamon-spiced apple slices, stacking them with yogurt and granola for a crunchy contrast, or even turning them into pancake sandwiches with nut butter and banana slices inside. These ideas transform breakfast into a feast that will wow your friends and family every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover pancakes (which is a great problem to have), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just place a piece of parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking and keep them fresh.

Freezing

Want to enjoy these VANILLA CINNAMON BUTTERMILK PANCAKES later? Freeze them by laying pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and popping them into the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months without losing that fluffy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop a few pancakes in the toaster or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds until heated through. Alternatively, a warm skillet will revive that lovely crisp edge while keeping the center soft and tender, just like fresh.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps tenderize the pancakes and activate the baking soda. This swap works well when you don’t have buttermilk on hand.

Why are my pancakes not fluffy?

Overmixing the batter or cooking on too high heat can result in dense pancakes. Remember to gently combine the wet and dry ingredients and cook on medium heat, flipping only once bubbles form and the edges look set for the fluffiest results.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

While you could prepare the batter in advance, it’s best to cook the pancakes fresh. Resting the batter for about 5 minutes before cooking improves fluffiness, but letting it sit too long can affect texture and rise.

How do I keep pancakes warm if making for a crowd?

Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and keep them warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you finish cooking the rest. This keeps them soft without drying out.

What’s the secret to the perfect pancake color?

Using melted butter in the batter and buttering your cooking surface helps create that inviting golden-brown hue. Cooking over medium heat ensures the pancakes cook evenly without burning.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing VANILLA CINNAMON BUTTERMILK PANCAKES. They bring warmth and comfort to the table, and their tender, flavorful crumb makes every bite a little celebration. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a festive brunch, these pancakes invite you to slow down and enjoy the simple joy of good food made with care. So go ahead, whisk up a batch—you’ll be glad you did!