Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes Recipe
If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, you have to try this Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes Recipe. These pancakes are the perfect marriage of fluffy, tender batter with a sweet and crumbly cinnamon streusel topping that melts just slightly into every bite. The cinnamon and brown sugar combine to create that cozy, nostalgic flavor that will have your kitchen smelling like you just walked into the best bakery in town. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion, these pancakes always bring a little extra joy to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays an important role, from the fluffy texture of the pancakes to the sweet crunch of the streusel topping. Having these basics on hand makes it easy to whip up a batch anytime.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the pancake batter, providing structure and lightness.
- Granulated sugar: Adds mild sweetness to the pancakes without overpowering.
- Baking powder: The leavening agent that creates those perfect fluffy pancakes.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Cinnamon: Provides warm spice to both batter and streusel.
- Milk: Keeps the batter tender and moist.
- Large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the fluffy texture.
- Melted butter or oil: Adds richness and a golden finish.
- Vanilla extract: Brings a fragrant sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Brown sugar: For the streusel topping’s caramel notes and moist crumb.
- Cold butter: Crucial for that crispy, crumbly streusel texture.
- Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (optional): Combine these for a simple glaze that takes the pancakes to a whole new level of indulgence.
How to Make Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping
Begin by mixing brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and incorporate it into the dry mix using a fork or your fingers until it forms coarse crumbs resembling crunchy little nuggets. This streusel will melt just enough over the pancakes to deliver wonderful texture and sweetness in every bite.
Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon so everything is well combined. In another bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix just until combined; a few lumps are totally okay here as they keep your pancakes fluffy rather than dense.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Pour about a ÂĽ cup of batter for each pancake directly onto the hot surface, and immediately sprinkle roughly one tablespoon of the streusel topping over the uncooked batter. Cook until bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges look set, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking
Carefully flip each pancake to cook the other side until golden brown and cooked through, approximately another 1 to 2 minutes. The streusel will toast slightly on the bottom side, adding incredible crunch and flavor. Once cooked, transfer to a warm plate and repeat with the remaining batter and streusel.
Step 5: Optional Glaze Drizzle
For a little extra sweetness and shine, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze generously over the stack of pancakes just before serving for an irresistible finishing touch.
How to Serve Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of these pancakes is in their simplicity, but a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate them beautifully. Fresh berries add a pop of color and tartness that balances the sweetness wonderfully. A dusting of extra cinnamon or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar makes the presentation extra special without overshadowing the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes Recipe with crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage to provide a lovely contrast to the sweet pancakes. Fresh fruit salad or a side of creamy Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey can lighten the meal and add refreshing complements to the indulgent pancakes.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or make a cozy breakfast even more fun? Stack the pancakes high with layers of streusel between each one for extra crunch. Serve them in a skillet for a rustic look or cut the stack into quarters and fan them out on the plate for easy sharing and a beautiful spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, cool your Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes completely before placing them in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they stay fresh for up to two days, making for a quick and delicious breakfast the next morning.
Freezing
These pancakes freeze beautifully! Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. This keeps them from sticking together and lets you grab just what you need for a fast morning treat. They’re best used within a month for optimum flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat leftover pancakes, pop them in a toaster or toaster oven until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. Microwaving works too, but you might lose some of that wonderful crispness from the streusel topping. Reheating gently helps bring back that fresh-from-the-griddle feeling.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for a heartier, nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just keep in mind the texture may be a bit denser, but still delicious.
Is it necessary to sprinkle the streusel on the pancakes before flipping?
Yes, sprinkling the streusel immediately after pouring the batter helps it stick well and toast during cooking, giving you that perfect crispy topping rather than it sliding off.
Can I make the streusel topping vegan?
For a vegan version, swap the butter for a plant-based margarine or coconut oil chilled and cut into cubes. The texture will remain delightfully crumbly and flavorful.
How do I prevent the pancakes from turning out tough?
Mix the batter just until the ingredients come together; overmixing develops the gluten and can make your pancakes chewy instead of fluffy.
What else can I add to the batter for extra flavor?
Feel free to fold in some chopped nuts, raisins, or even mini chocolate chips for a tasty twist that complements the brown sugar cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes Recipe, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your breakfast repertoire. The balance of tender pancakes with that melt-in-your-mouth streusel topping creates a magical breakfast experience that feels both comforting and indulgent. So grab your skillet, gather these simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a morning that feels extra special. You deserve it!
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Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 pancakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious brown sugar cinnamon streusel pancakes with a sweet, crumbly topping and an optional vanilla glaze. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, these fluffy pancakes combine warm spices and a buttery streusel for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
For the pancakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the streusel topping:
- â…“ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cold butter (cut into small cubes)
Optional glaze (for drizzling):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- ÂĽ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the streusel: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter using a fork or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Make the pancake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix just until combined, leaving a few lumps for a tender texture; avoid overmixing.
- Cook the pancakes: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour ¼ cup batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Quickly sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of streusel over each pancake before it sets. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look dry, about 2–3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare optional glaze: In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Drizzle over pancakes before serving for added sweetness and flavor.
Notes
- The streusel can be made ahead and refrigerated for quick breakfasts.
- These pancakes are sweet and flavorful on their own, but a drizzle of maple syrup or the optional glaze enhances the taste.
- Use cold butter for the streusel to achieve the perfect crumbly texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
