As the aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. There’s something truly magical about creating Cinnamon Roll Blondies, a delightful blend of a classic treat with a twist. With their gooey, cinnamon-spiced layers and a luscious cream cheese frosting, these blondies are not only a comforting indulgence but also a quick-fix delight for any gathering or cozy night in. What I love most is how easily these can be prepared — just 15 minutes of hands-on time, and you’ve created something truly tempting that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds! They’re perfect for anyone eager to ditch the fast-food rut and embrace the warmth of homemade sweetness. Are you ready to bring this easy recipe into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why are these Cinnamon Roll Blondies irresistible?
Gooey, Cinnamon-Spiced Layers: The swirls of cinnamon sugar create a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
Quick and Easy: In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these blondies, making it an ideal choice for last-minute dessert cravings.
Perfect for Sharing: With 16 rich squares, they’re great for gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in!
Indulgent Frosting: The cream cheese drizzle adds a luscious finish that elevates the flavors to new heights.
Homemade Delight: Ditch fast food and treat yourself to these delicious blondies that capture the essence of homemade comfort.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create these luscious delights!
For the Blondies
• Unsalted Butter – 1 cup; this ensures a rich and creamy base for your batter.
• Light Brown Sugar – 1 cup; it adds a deeper, caramel flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Granulated White Sugar – 1 cup; this sweetens up your blondies for that perfect treat.
• All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups; it provides the structure to keep your blondies soft and chewy.
• Large Eggs – 2; they bind everything together and add moisture for that gooey texture.
• Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon; ensures your blondies rise just right, creating a light and fluffy bite.
• Cinnamon – 1 tablespoon; the star spice that brings warmth and flavor to your Cinnamon Roll Blondies.
For the Frosting
• Powdered Sugar – 2 cups; this sweetens and helps create that smooth, creamy frosting texture you've been dreaming of!
• Cream Cheese – add as desired for a rich and tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• Milk – a splash is needed to achieve the desired drizzling consistency for the frosting.
Dive in and let the magic happen with these Cinnamon Roll Blondies that will have your loved ones asking for more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take an 8x8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal later. This will create the perfect foundation for your Cinnamon Roll Blondies!
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter until it’s just melted but not bubbling. Stir in 1 cup of light brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated white sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Then, add 2 large eggs, beating them in until the batter is creamy and uniform.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into your wet mixture. Sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Gently mix using a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your Cinnamon Roll Blondies soft and chewy!
Step 4: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Next, sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar over this base. Pour the remaining batter on top, allowing it to cover the cinnamon sugar, then gently swirl the layers together using a knife for that delightful cinnamon ribbon effect.
Step 5: Bake the Blondies
Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake the Cinnamon Roll Blondies for about 30 to 38 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown, and the center appears slightly underdone — this means they’ll stay gooey and delicious once cooled!
Step 6: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After they’ve cooled slightly, lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures your blondies maintain their chewy texture.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
While the blondies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, mix 2 cups of powdered sugar with cream cheese and a splash of milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and has a drizzling consistency that’s perfect for topping your Cinnamon Roll Blondies.
Step 8: Drizzle and Slice
Once your blondies have completely cooled, drizzle the creamy frosting over the top, spreading it gently to cover the entire surface. Finally, slice the blondies into squares, and get ready to delight your family and friends with these irresistible Cinnamon Roll Blondies!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Room Temperature: Store your Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the blondies in an airtight container for up to a week while maintaining their delightful texture.
Freezer: Freeze the blondies wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: Warm individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that just-baked softness.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Variations
Feel free to play around with these blondies and make them your own delightfully unique dessert!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and richness in every bite. The nutty flavor complements the cinnamon perfectly!
- Chocolate Swirl: Add ½ cup of melted chocolate or chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent chocolate-cinnamon twist that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Spiced Up: Boost the warmth by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile. It brings a cozy depth you’ll love!
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter to create a vegan-friendly treat.
- Cheesecake-Frosting: For an even richer topping, blend the cream cheese with a tablespoon of vanilla extract or a bit of lemon juice for a zesty twist that will elevate the frosting.
- Maple Drizzle: Swap some powdered sugar for maple syrup in the frosting to infuse a natural sweetness and additional flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
- Fruity Add-In: Incorporate fresh or dried fruit like blueberries or cranberries into the batter for a delightful burst of flavor that brightens every bite!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Transform your dessert into a delightful spread with these complementary flavors and textures!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool treat on the side balances the warm, gooey blondies perfectly.
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Fresh Berries: A burst of tartness from raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness, refreshing the palate.
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Coffee: A rich cup of coffee enhances the cinnamon notes, creating a cozy flavor harmony for your afternoon break.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a fluffy texture that feels indulgent alongside the fudgy blondies.
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Chai-Spiced Tea: This warm beverage echoes the cozy spices in the blondies, making it a comforting pairing for a cozy evening in.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your blondies by drizzling melted chocolate on top, for a touch of decadence to each bite.
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Nuts or Candied Pecans: Adding a crunchy element brings texture, while the nuttiness complements the blondies’ flavor profile beautifully.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzle a bit on the blondies for an added layer of sweetness that plays well with the cinnamon spice.
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Caramel Sauce: A splash of warm caramel sauce creates a luxurious experience, with every bite dunked into sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Cinnamon Roll Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients and refrigerating the bowl covered. Additionally, you can make the frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a good stir before drizzling it on the cooled blondies. When you're ready to serve, simply pour the batter into the pan, bake, and frost as directed. This way, you’ll save time and enjoy rich, gooey blondies that are just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure your ingredients are spot on. Accurate measurements will lead to perfect blondies every time!
Don’t Overmix: Gentle mixing is key! Overmixing the batter can lead to dense blondies, while a light touch keeps them soft and chewy.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be golden at the edges and slightly underdone in the center. This yields that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Cool Before Frosting: Allow the blondies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. Otherwise, the heat can cause your icing to melt away, losing that perfect drizzle.
Storage Tips: Store Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week when refrigerated!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Absolutely! I recommend using unsalted butter for this recipe. It gives you more control over the saltiness of the blondies and allows the sweet flavors of the sugars and cinnamon to shine through.
How should I store my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
To keep your blondies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, popping them into the fridge can extend their freshness for another week without compromising their taste or texture.
Can I freeze my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your blondies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They'll stay good for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What can I do if my blondies are too dry?
If you find that your blondies turn out a bit dry, it may be due to overbaking. Always start checking for doneness at around 30 minutes. If they begin to look golden around the edges but are still slightly underdone in the center, pull them out. Also, for a next-time fix, you can consider adding an extra egg or reducing the flour slightly to maintain moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
If you're baking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adjust this recipe. For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Additionally, you can use dairy-free butter and cream cheese to make these blondies vegan-friendly. Just remember to double-check for allergens when serving!
How can I tell when my blondies are done baking?
To ensure your blondies are perfectly baked, look for golden brown edges and slightly undercooked centers. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out with a few moist crumbs — this indicates that your blondies will be gooey and delicious. If it's clean, they may be overdone, so keep a careful eye on them in the last few minutes of baking!
Irresistibly Indulgent Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe
Equipment
- 8x8-inch baking pan
- mixing bowl
- spatula
- whisk
Ingredients
For the Blondies
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter ensures a rich and creamy base
- 1 cup Light Brown Sugar adds a deeper, caramel flavor
- 1 cup Granulated White Sugar sweetens the blondies
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour provides structure
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder ensures proper rising
- 1 tablespoon Cinnamon provides warmth and flavor
For the Frosting
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar sweetens and creates a smooth texture
- Cream Cheese add as desired for richness
- Milk a splash for drizzling consistency
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter and mix with 1 cup of light brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Add the 2 eggs and beat until creamy.
- Sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Mix gently until just combined.
- Layer half of the blondie batter in the prepared pan, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, then pour remaining batter on top and swirl.
- Bake for 30 to 38 minutes until edges are golden and center appears slightly underdone.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then lift out and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting by mixing 2 cups of powdered sugar with cream cheese and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the frosting over cooled blondies, then slice into squares and serve.
