Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe 5 Secrets for Perfect Results Every Time

Tired of choosing between cinnamon rolls and waffles for Sunday brunch? What if I told you that you never have to make that heartbreaking decision again? This Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe combines the gooey, spiced perfection of a classic cinnamon roll with the crispy-edged delight of a golden waffle all in one incredible bite.

Picture this: fluffy waffle batter swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar filling, cooked until golden and crispy on the outside while staying tender inside, then generously drizzled with silky cream cheese glaze. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes people stop mid-conversation and just… savor. These waffles deliver bakery quality results without the hours of waiting for dough to rise or the morning rush stress.

I’ll never forget the morning Megan Carter walked into our kitchen with what she called “a potentially genius or absolutely terrible idea.” As our pastry wizard, she’d been experimenting with transforming classic baked goods, and this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe? Pure genius. We spent an entire Saturday perfecting the cinnamon swirl technique, testing different waffle iron temperatures, and getting that cream cheese drizzle to just the right consistency. Jackson Reed, our grill master who usually stays in savory territory, couldn’t stop sneaking pieces from the cooling rack. “Simon,” he said between bites, “this is dangerous. I might never eat regular waffles again.”

In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: choosing the right ingredients for maximum fluffiness, mastering the cinnamon swirl without deflating your batter, achieving that perfect crispy-yet-tender texture, and creating a cream cheese glaze so good you’ll want to bottle it. Whether you’re a waffle novice or a weekend brunch champion, you’re about to make something truly special.

Why This Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe Works

This Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe hits every craving it’s indulgent yet achievable, impressive but surprisingly simple, and absolutely perfect for making weekend mornings feel extra special.

• Ready in just 25 minutes – faster than any traditional cinnamon roll recipe
• Uses one bowl for batter – minimal cleanup means more time enjoying breakfast
• No yeast or rising time required – skip the waiting and proofing entirely
• Crispy exterior meets fluffy interior – the best of both breakfast worlds in one dish
• Customizable sweetness levels – adjust sugar to match your family’s preferences
• Makes incredible freezer-friendly leftovers – prepare ahead for busy weekday mornings
• Kid-approved and fun to make – children love watching the swirl happen in the waffle iron
• Budget-friendly ingredients – uses pantry staples you likely already have

The magic of this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe happens when cinnamon-butter filling meets the hot waffle iron. The filling melts and caramelizes slightly, creating pockets of gooey sweetness throughout the waffle while the edges get beautifully crisp. Topped with that tangy cream cheese glaze, it’s a flavor combination that Olivia Brooks describes as “worth waking up early for – and I’m not a morning person.”

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Quality ingredients make the difference between good and extraordinary results with this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe. Let me share what works best.

Best Flour for This Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

All-purpose flour is your go-to here. It provides the perfect protein content for waffles that are sturdy enough to hold the cinnamon swirl but still tender and fluffy. I use King Arthur or Gold Medal brand for consistent results every time.

Cake flour can be used for extra-tender waffles replace up to half the all-purpose flour with cake flour for cloud-like texture. This is Megan’s secret weapon when she wants ultra-delicate waffles that practically melt in your mouth.

Whole wheat flour works if you want to add nutrition and a nutty depth. Use a 50/50 blend with all-purpose flour to maintain good texture while adding fiber and wholesome flavor without compromising the lightness.

Dairy Selection Tips for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Buttermilk is my first choice for this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe the acidity reacts with baking soda to create extra-fluffy waffles with a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully. If you don’t have buttermilk, make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Whole milk creates rich, tender waffles with excellent flavor. The fat content matters here – don’t use skim milk or your waffles will be dry, bland, and disappointing.

Greek yogurt can replace half the buttermilk for extra protein and tanginess. Thin it with a bit of milk to reach buttermilk consistency for the best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

• Butter alternatives: Coconut oil works in both batter and filling (expect subtle coconut flavor that’s actually quite pleasant)
• Egg replacements: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) work for vegan versions
• Dairy-free options: Use almond milk + vinegar, coconut milk, or oat milk for the liquid component
• Sugar swaps: Coconut sugar or maple sugar in the filling for deeper, more complex flavor
• Cream cheese alternative: Cashew cream or coconut cream for dairy-free (though flavor will differ slightly)

Ingredients & Prep for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Let me break down everything you need for waffle magic with this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe.

Waffle Batter Essentials for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1¾ cups buttermilk
• ½ cup melted butter, cooled slightly
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cinnamon Swirl Filling for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

• ¼ cup butter, melted
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Mix these together until you have a spreadable paste. If it’s too thick, warm it slightly in the microwave for 10 seconds; if too thin, add more brown sugar one tablespoon at a time.

Cream Cheese Glaze for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

The glaze should be pourable but not too thin think honey consistency. Adjust milk amount as needed to reach the perfect drizzling texture.

Pantry Staples for This Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Keep these on hand for impromptu waffle mornings:

• Pure vanilla extract: Use real vanilla, not imitation, for the best flavor
• Fresh ground cinnamon: Quality makes a huge difference replace old cinnamon annually
• Baking powder & soda: Check expiration dates old leaveners mean flat, dense waffles
• Quality butter: The flavor shines through, so use the good stuff
• Real maple syrup: For serving (optional but highly recommended)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Let’s make some magic happen with this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe.

Pre-Cooking Prep for Your Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

1. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat this takes about 5-7 minutes for proper heat distribution
2. Prepare the cinnamon filling by mixing melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl until smooth
3. Transfer filling to a squeeze bottle or piping bag (or use a small zip-top bag with a corner snipped off)
4. Soften cream cheese and butter for the glaze by leaving at room temperature for 20-30 minutes
5. Gather all ingredients and tools – you’ll be moving quickly once you start cooking
6. Set up your waffle station with a cooling rack nearby, spray bottle of oil, and glaze ingredients ready to mix

Cooking Method for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Making the Batter:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined
2. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until slightly foamy and light
3. Add buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla to eggs and whisk until fully combined
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients all at once
5. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined – some lumps are fine and actually preferred
6. Let batter rest for 5 minutes while waffle iron finishes heating (this allows flour to hydrate)

The Swirl Technique for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe:

1. Spray waffle iron lightly with non-stick cooking spray (even if it’s non-stick)
2. Pour enough batter to fill about ⅔ of the waffle iron (amount varies by iron size – usually ½ to ¾ cup)
3. Working quickly but calmly, squeeze or pipe cinnamon filling in a spiral pattern over the batter
4. Add a thin layer of additional batter on top (about 2-3 tablespoons) to seal in the filling
5. Close the lid gently and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and steam stops emerging

Megan’s Pro Tip: Don’t overthink the swirl – it doesn’t have to be Instagram-perfect! The filling will spread and create beautiful, random patterns as the waffle cooks. Imperfect swirls often look the most authentic.

Doneness Check for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Your Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe creations are perfectly done when:

• Steam stops emerging from the sides of the waffle iron
• They’re golden brown on the exterior with darker caramelized spots
• They release easily from the iron without sticking or tearing
• They feel crispy when touched lightly (they’ll firm up more as they cool)
• Internal temperature reaches 190-200°F if using a thermometer for precision

Most waffle irons have an indicator light that tells you when they’re done, but these visual and tactile cues are more reliable for achieving perfect texture.

Resting and Finishing Your Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Transfer cooked waffles to a wire cooling rack rather than stacking them. This prevents them from steaming and getting soggy you want to maintain that crispy exterior that makes this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe special.

While waffles cool slightly (1-2 minutes), make your cream cheese glaze:

1. Beat softened cream cheese and butter together with electric mixer until fluffy and smooth
2. Add sifted powdered sugar and beat on low until incorporated, then high until smooth
3. Add milk one tablespoon at a time, beating after each addition, until you reach desired consistency
4. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for balance

Drizzle warm waffles generously with glaze and serve immediately. The glaze will melt slightly into the waffle’s nooks and crannies that’s exactly what you want for maximum deliciousness.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

These techniques separate good waffles from legendary ones when making this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe.

Avoiding Dense, Soggy Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe Results

Don’t overmix the batter – this is the number one waffle killer in any recipe. Mix just until ingredients are combined; lumps are your friend here. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough, chewy waffles instead of light and fluffy ones.

Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes after mixing. This allows the flour to fully hydrate and the leavening agents to start working their magic, resulting in fluffier, more tender waffles.

Don’t open the waffle iron early – resist the temptation! Opening too soon causes waffles to tear, deflate, and lose that crispy exterior. Wait until steam stops or your indicator light signals they’re done.

Keep finished waffles crispy by placing them in a single layer on a cooling rack in a 200°F oven while you finish cooking the remaining batter.

Use room temperature ingredients – especially eggs and buttermilk. Cold ingredients can seize up the melted butter and create an uneven batter texture.

Tool Recommendations for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Must-haves:

• Belgian waffle maker – deep pockets hold more cinnamon filling beautifully (though regular waffle irons work too)
• Squeeze bottle or piping bag – makes adding the swirl so much easier and more controlled
• Wire cooling rack – essential for maintaining that all-important crispiness
• Two mixing bowls – for keeping wet and dry ingredients separate until combining

Nice-to-haves:

• Kitchen scale – for precise measurements that yield consistent results
• Electric hand mixer – makes quick, effortless work of the cream cheese glaze
• Silicone spatula – perfect for gentle mixing without deflating the batter
• Instant-read thermometer – for checking waffle doneness if you’re a perfectionist

Storage & Reheating Your Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Short-term storage:

• Cool waffles completely before storing (about 15 minutes)
• Place in airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days
• Store glaze separately in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week

Freezing for later:

• Cool completely and freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours
• Once frozen solid, transfer to freezer bags, removing as much air as possible
• Label with date and keeps for up to 3 months
• No need to thaw – reheat directly from frozen for best results

Reheating methods for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe:

• Toaster (best method): Toast on medium-high until crispy and heated through (2-3 minutes)
• Oven: Place on baking sheet at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for freshly-baked texture
• Microwave: 30-45 seconds on high (sacrifices crispiness but works in a pinch)
• Air fryer: 350°F for 3-4 minutes for ultra-crispy, restaurant-quality results

Flavor Variations for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Keep breakfast exciting with these delicious twists on this classic Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe.

Spiced-Up Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Chai Spice Cinnamon Roll Waffles:

• Add ½ teaspoon each of cardamom, ginger, and nutmeg to the batter
• Use chai tea concentrate in place of 2 tablespoons of buttermilk
• Top with vanilla glaze infused with steeped chai tea bag
• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and star anise

Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll Waffles:

• Add ½ cup pumpkin puree to wet ingredients (reduce buttermilk to 1¼ cups)
• Include ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice in batter and filling
• Top with maple cream cheese glaze
• Perfect for fall breakfast celebrations

Mexican Chocolate Cinnamon Roll Waffles:

• Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and ¼ teaspoon cayenne to filling
• Include ½ teaspoon espresso powder in batter
• Top with chocolate cream cheese glaze
• Finish with a pinch of sea salt and cinnamon

Dietary-Friendly Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe Versions

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe:

• Use gluten-free 1:1 baking flour (Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur work great)
• Add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it
• Let batter rest for 10 minutes before cooking for better texture
• May need an extra minute of cooking time

Vegan Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe:

• Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons flax meal + 6 tablespoons water, let sit 5 minutes)
• Use plant-based milk + 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar instead of buttermilk
• Swap all butter for coconut oil or vegan butter
• Use vegan cream cheese for the glaze (Kite Hill or Violife brands work well)

Protein-Packed Cinnamon Roll Waffles:

• Add ⅓ cup vanilla protein powder (reduce flour by ⅓ cup)
• Include 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed in dry ingredients
• Use Greek yogurt thinned with milk instead of buttermilk
• Adds 8-10g extra protein per serving

Global Flavor Twists for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

French Toast Style:

• Add ½ teaspoon nutmeg to batter
• Brush finished waffles with egg wash and cook 30 seconds more
• Serve with berry compote and powdered sugar

Italian Cannoli Inspired:

• Add ½ cup ricotta cheese to the batter (reduce buttermilk by ¼ cup)
• Include mini chocolate chips in the filling
• Top with sweetened mascarpone instead of cream cheese glaze
• Garnish with chopped pistachios

Middle Eastern:

• Use cardamom instead of cinnamon in the filling
• Add orange blossom water to the glaze
• Top with chopped pistachios and honey drizzle
• Serve with rose water whipped cream

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Elevate your brunch game with these perfect pairings for this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe.

Classic Accompaniments:

• Fresh berries – strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add bright freshness that cuts the richness
• Whipped cream – homemade or store-bought for extra indulgence
• Pure maple syrup – warm it slightly in the microwave for the ultimate drizzle
• Crispy turkey sausage – a savory balance to the sweet waffles
• Fresh-squeezed orange juice – bright citrus cuts through richness perfectly
• Hot coffee – medium roast complements the cinnamon beautifully

Brunch Spread Ideas for Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe: Create a Cinnamon Roll Waffle bar with various toppings so everyone can customize:

• Sliced bananas and chopped pecans or walnuts
• Caramel sauce and flaky sea salt
• Berry compote and fresh lemon zest
• Chocolate hazelnut spread and sliced strawberries
• Peanut butter, honey, and banana slices
• Toasted coconut and pineapple chunks

Beverage Pairings:

• Coffee drinks: Vanilla latte, cappuccino, cinnamon dolce latte, or cold brew
• Tea: Chai, English breakfast, cinnamon tea, or rooibos
• Milk: Whole milk, almond milk, oat milk, or chocolate milk for kids
• Smoothies: Berry or tropical fruit smoothies for nutritional contrast
• Hot chocolate: Especially perfect for winter breakfast

Make it a Complete Meal: Turn your Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe into a complete brunch experience by adding fluffy scrambled eggs with chives, a simple fruit salad with fresh mint, and crispy breakfast potatoes seasoned with paprika. The savory elements balance the sweet waffles perfectly, creating a satisfying meal that covers all the bases.

FAQs About Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe batter ahead of time?

Yes, but with limitations! Mix dry ingredients the night before and store in an airtight container at room temperature. In the morning, mix wet ingredients and combine everything. However, don’t make complete batter more than 30 minutes ahead – the leavening agents (baking powder and soda) start working immediately upon contact with liquid and lose power over time, resulting in flatter, denser waffles.

Why are my Cinnamon Roll Waffles sticking to the iron?

Sticking usually happens when: (1) your waffle iron isn’t hot enough or properly preheated, (2) you didn’t use enough non-stick spray or oil, or (3) you’re opening the iron too early before the waffles are fully cooked. Make sure your iron is fully preheated (5-7 minutes), spray generously before each waffle, and wait until steam stops completely before opening.

Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe without buttermilk?

Absolutely! Make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it curdles slightly. You can also use plain yogurt thinned with milk to reach pourable consistency. The acid is important for reacting with baking soda to create fluffy texture.

How do I prevent the cinnamon filling from burning in my Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe?

The key is covering the cinnamon filling with a thin layer of batter on top before closing the waffle iron. This protects the sugar from direct heat. Also, cook at medium-high rather than the highest setting, and don’t let waffles cook too long. If edges are getting too dark, reduce your heat slightly.

Is this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe safe during pregnancy?

Yes! All ingredients are pregnancy-safe when properly prepared. Make sure eggs are cooked through (waffles reach internal temperature of 165°F+) and use pasteurized dairy products. The recipe contains no raw ingredients or restricted foods. As always, consult your healthcare provider about specific dietary concerns.

Can I double this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This recipe doubles and even triples beautifully. Mix dry ingredients in a very large bowl, and consider mixing wet ingredients in two batches if your bowl isn’t large enough. The cinnamon filling and glaze also scale up perfectly. Keep finished waffles warm in a 200°F oven on a cooling rack while you finish the batch.

What’s the best waffle iron for this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe?

Belgian waffle makers with deep pockets are ideal they hold more filling and create that classic waffle texture. However, regular waffle irons work perfectly fine too. Look for one with adjustable temperature settings so you can control browning. Non-stick coating is helpful but not essential if you oil properly.

Can I use this Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe batter for pancakes instead?

You can, though the texture will be slightly different. The batter is thicker than typical pancake batter, so you may want to thin it with 2-3 tablespoons more buttermilk. Cook pancakes on medium heat and add small dollops of cinnamon filling to each pancake before flipping. The results won’t be quite as spectacular as waffles, but they’re still delicious!

Conclusion

There you have it everything you need to create a Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe that’ll have your family begging for weekend brunch every single week. This recipe has become an absolute staple in my kitchen, and I genuinely believe it’ll earn the same beloved status in yours.

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Cinnamon Roll Waffles Recipe 5 Secrets for Perfect Results Every Time

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• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 waffles 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

These Cinnamon Roll Waffles combine crispy Belgian waffles with swirled cinnamon-sugar filling and a luscious cream cheese drizzle. Perfect for weekend brunch or special breakfast occasions, they deliver all the flavor of homemade cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

**For the Waffle Batter:**

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

1 3/4 cups whole milk (room temperature)

2 large eggs

1/3 cup melted butter (cooled slightly)

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

**For the Cinnamon Swirl:**

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

**For the Cream Cheese Drizzle:**

4 ounces cream cheese (softened)

3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)

1 cup powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2–4 tablespoons milk

Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Make the cinnamon swirl filling by creaming together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag or ziplock bag and set aside.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg until combined.

3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, then add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Small lumps are okay.

5. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat and lightly spray with cooking spray.

6. Pour 1/2 to 3/4 cup batter onto the preheated waffle iron, then immediately pipe the cinnamon swirl mixture in a spiral pattern over the batter.

7. Close the waffle iron and cook for 4-6 minutes until golden brown and steam stops escaping.

8. Carefully remove the waffle with a fork or silicone tongs and place on a wire rack.

9. While waffles cook, make the cream cheese drizzle by beating cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then adding powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and milk until smooth and pourable.

10. Serve waffles warm with generous cream cheese drizzle on top. Garnish with fresh berries if desired.

Notes

Bring all refrigerated ingredients to room temperature before starting for best results.

Don’t overmix the batter—small lumps are okay and help keep waffles fluffy.

The cinnamon swirl can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored at room temperature.

For crispier waffles, place finished waffles on a wire rack rather than stacking them.

Freeze cooked waffles for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster for quick breakfasts.

Adjust your waffle iron temperature if the cinnamon is burning—medium heat works better for some models.

You can substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Waffle Iron
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 waffle
• Calories: 385
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: cinnamon roll waffles, breakfast waffles, cinnamon waffles, cream cheese drizzle, weekend brunch