Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes

I’ve made countless batches of pancakes over the years, but these Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes are the ones that stop people mid-bite and make them say, “Whoa.” There’s something magical about the way the warm vanilla blends with the cozy spice of cinnamon, and the tangy richness of buttermilk brings it all together. It’s like a warm hug on a plate. Whether I’m whipping them up for a slow Sunday morning or making a surprise breakfast-for-dinner spread, this recipe never disappoints.

What I love most is how incredibly fluffy and golden they turn out, with just the right amount of sweetness. They cook up beautifully every time, and that buttery, syrup-soaked top is pure comfort food bliss. If you’ve ever wished you could master diner-style pancakes at home, these will get you there—with extra flavor to boot.

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Why You’ll Love These Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes

• Ultra fluffy with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Rich vanilla and warming cinnamon make every bite irresistible.
• Buttermilk gives a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
• Easy enough for weekday mornings, but special enough for brunch.
• Perfectly golden edges with a moist and airy center.

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What Kind of Buttermilk Should I Use?

You can use store-bought cultured buttermilk, which is widely available and works perfectly in this recipe. If you’re out of it, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice into 1 cup of milk—let it sit for 5–10 minutes, and it’s ready to use. The acid is key to activating the baking soda and getting that signature pancake rise.

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Options for Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk mixed with vinegar as a buttermilk substitute, and swap butter for a plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free: A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well here, though the texture may be slightly more delicate.
• No Eggs?: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes).
• Low Sugar: You can reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon or use coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener.
• Extra Flavor: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for a twist on the classic flavor profile.

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Ingredients for Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes

• All-Purpose Flour: The base that gives structure to the pancakes. Make sure to measure it correctly to avoid dense results.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the warm spice and tang.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: This combo gives the pancakes their incredible lift and fluffy texture.
• Ground Cinnamon: Infuses the batter with a warm, comforting flavor.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Buttermilk: The star of the show, it reacts with the baking soda and provides tenderness and tang.
• Egg: Helps bind everything together and adds richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Deepens the flavor and complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Unsalted Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps with golden edges.
• Butter or oil for cooking: For greasing the pan and getting that golden finish.

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Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed, especially the cinnamon, to avoid clumps of spice.

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Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. The butter may form small clumps if the buttermilk is very cold, but that’s okay—it will melt in the pan.

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Step 3: Create the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix! The batter should be lumpy. Overmixing will lead to tough pancakes.

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Step 4: Heat Your Pan

Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil. Once it’s hot (you can test with a drop of water—it should sizzle), you’re ready to cook.

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Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Scoop about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Let them cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set—about 2 to 3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown. Don’t press them down—let them puff up!

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Step 6: Serve Warm

Transfer pancakes to a plate and keep warm while you cook the rest. Serve stacked high with butter, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a light dusting of powdered sugar for that extra touch.

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How Long to Prepare Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes

Making these pancakes is quick and easy, making them perfect for both relaxed mornings and busier weekdays.

Prep Time: Mixing the ingredients and getting the batter ready takes about 10 minutes. If you're preparing a homemade buttermilk substitute, add 5 minutes for curdling time.

Cook Time: Each batch takes about 4–5 minutes. Cooking all the pancakes (around 10–12) in a standard pan usually takes about 20 minutes, depending on your pan size.

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Tips for Perfect Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes

• Don’t overmix the batter—lumps are good! They help keep the pancakes tender and fluffy.
• Let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking. It allows the flour to hydrate and helps with rise.
• Preheat your skillet properly to avoid undercooked centers and too-dark outsides.
• Use a measuring scoop for evenly sized pancakes.
• Keep pancakes warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven on a wire rack while finishing the batch.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• High Heat: Cooking over high heat will burn the outsides before the inside cooks. Stick to medium.
• Pressing the Pancakes: Pressing them with a spatula flattens them and ruins the fluff.
• Skipping Buttermilk: Regular milk won’t give the same texture or flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Give each pancake room to spread and flip easily.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Let eggs and buttermilk come to room temp for the best results.

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What to Serve With Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes?

1. Maple Syrup and Salted Butter

The classics are classics for a reason—this combo is warm, melty, and sweet.

2. Fresh Berries

A burst of freshness and color, strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries make it brunch-worthy.

3. Whipped Cream

Adds a light, creamy topping perfect for special occasions or dessert-style pancakes.

4. Scrambled Eggs and Bacon

For a savory contrast, serve alongside soft scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.

5. Greek Yogurt and Honey

Adds protein and tang while keeping things balanced and naturally sweet.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let pancakes cool completely, then stack with parchment paper between each and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds per pancake or in a toaster oven for crisp edges.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per pancake, based on a batch of 10)

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 210mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when to flip the pancakes?

When you see bubbles forming and popping on the surface and the edges look set—usually around 2–3 minutes.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

You can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately in advance, but combine them just before cooking for best texture.

Why are my pancakes coming out flat?

Check your baking powder and soda for freshness, and avoid overmixing the batter.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes—use plant milk + vinegar, vegan butter, and a flax egg substitute.

What’s the best pan to use?

A non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan gives great color and cooks evenly.

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Conclusion

Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes are everything you want in a cozy, comforting breakfast—fluffy, flavorful, and easy to make. With the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy, they’re bound to become a staple in your breakfast rotation. Whether you're enjoying a slow weekend morning or whipping them up as a treat during the week, these pancakes are guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.

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