Dessert

Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe

ByMarina Montclair January 18, 2026January 18, 2026

Introduction

These Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes are a cozy twist on a breakfast classic. Light, fluffy, and delicately spiced, they are made with real buttermilk and warm vanilla-cinnamon flavor. Perfect for a relaxing weekend morning or breakfast-for-dinner, this stack delivers comforting, homemade goodness in every bite.

A stack of four thick, fluffy pancakes with a golden brown top layer sits in the center of a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The pancakes have a soft, light beige color with slight browning around the edges, showing their cooked texture. On top of the stack, a small amount of cinnamon sugar is sprinkled, adding a light brown contrast. Golden syrup slowly drips down the sides of the pancakes, pooling around the base in a shiny amber color. Beside the stack on the plate are three cinnamon sticks tied together with a piece of twine, adding a rustic touch. The overall setting looks warm and inviting with soft lighting highlighting the fluffy texture of the pancakes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for cooking)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 2: In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.
Step 3: Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to help it become extra fluffy.
Step 4: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly butter the surface. Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet.
Step 5: Cook the pancakes until bubbles form on the surface and the edges are set, about 2 to 3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings.

Tips & Variations

Don’t overmix the batter; stir just until combined to keep pancakes light and fluffy.
Letting the batter rest for a few minutes activates the leavening agents for a better rise.
Keep cooked pancakes warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (90°C) oven while you finish cooking the rest.
If you don’t have buttermilk, use 1 cup of milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Try folding in blueberries, chopped pecans, or a swirl of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.

Storage

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a toaster or in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Pancakes can also be frozen in a single layer with parchment paper between them, then stored in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen using a toaster or microwave.

How to Serve

A stack of four thick, fluffy pancakes sits in the center of a white plate on a white marbled surface. The pancakes have a golden-brown top with a dusting of powdered sugar and a small pile of cinnamon sugar in the middle. Rich amber syrup drips slowly down the sides and pools around the base, adding a glossy texture. To the side of the pancakes, there are three cinnamon sticks tied with twine, resting against the stack. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these pancakes without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.

How do I keep pancakes fluffy and light?

Be sure not to overmix the batter; mix just until combined so it remains slightly lumpy. Also, let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking to allow the leavening agents to work their magic.