Cinnamon Roll Waffles with Cream Cheese Drizzle

If you love the warm, cozy flavor of cinnamon rolls but crave the crisp edges of golden waffles, this Cinnamon Roll Waffles with Cream Cheese Drizzle recipe is about to become your new favorite breakfast. These waffles combine fluffy waffle batter with a rich cinnamon swirl, all finished with a smooth, sweet cream cheese drizzle that melts into every bite. Perfect for weekend brunch, special mornings, or whenever you want to turn breakfast into something a little more indulgent, this recipe feels bakery-worthy while still being easy enough to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines two breakfast favorites: cinnamon rolls and waffles.
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
• Perfect for brunch, holidays, or a special family breakfast.
• Meat-free and crowd-pleasing.
• Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside.

Ingredients

Waffle Batter

• All-purpose flour (2 cups): Creates a fluffy, sturdy waffle base.
• Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the waffles rise and stay light.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Works with buttermilk for extra fluffiness.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Buttermilk (1½ cups): Adds tenderness and a subtle tang.
• Eggs (2 large): Provide structure and richness.
• Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Adds moisture and buttery flavor.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the sweetness.

Cinnamon Swirl

• Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Carries the cinnamon flavor.
• Light brown sugar (⅓ cup): Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The warm, aromatic star of the recipe.

Cream Cheese Drizzle

• Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Creates a rich, tangy glaze.
• Powdered sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens and smooths the drizzle.
• Milk (2 tablespoons): Thins the glaze to a pourable consistency.
• Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Adds extra flavor depth.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Waffles with Cream Cheese

Prepare the Waffle Iron

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions so it’s hot and ready when the batter is prepared.

Mix the Waffle Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the waffles light and fluffy.

Make the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off for easy swirling.

Cook the Waffles

Lightly grease the waffle iron. Pour about ½ cup of batter into the center, then pipe a spiral of the cinnamon mixture on top. Close the waffle iron and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Drizzle

In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until the glaze is smooth and pourable. Add a little more milk if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the waffles warm and generously drizzle with the cream cheese topping for the full cinnamon roll waffle experience.

Tips for Success

• Do not overmix the batter; small lumps are perfectly fine.
• Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the drizzle.
• Keep cooked waffles warm in a low oven while finishing the batch.
• If the cinnamon swirl starts to burn, use slightly less or swirl it more lightly.

Equipment Needed

• Waffle iron (standard or Belgian-style)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Piping bag or zip-top bag
• Hand mixer or whisk for the glaze

Recipe Variations

• Nutty version: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl.
• Extra indulgent: Top with whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon.
• Lighter drizzle: Replace cream cheese drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze.
• Pumpkin spice twist: Add pumpkin spice to the cinnamon swirl for a fall-inspired version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these homemade cinnamon roll waffles with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a hot cup of coffee. They also pair beautifully with a simple yogurt parfait for brunch gatherings.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time? It’s best made fresh, but you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately the night before.
Can I store leftovers? Yes, store waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can these waffles be frozen? Absolutely. Freeze cooked waffles and reheat in a toaster or oven.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? Mix regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
How do I keep waffles crispy? Place them on a wire rack instead of stacking them while cooling.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Roll Waffles with Cream Cheese Drizzle turn an ordinary morning into something truly special. With warm cinnamon flavor, crispy edges, and a creamy glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want a comforting homemade treat. Give them a try, make them your own, and don’t forget to share them with someone you love.

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