There's something magical about the cozy scent of cinnamon wafting through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to childhood memories filled with warm baked goods and laughter. Today, I’m excited to share my delicious recipe for Cinnamon Roll Blondies—an indulgent dessert that marries the best of both worlds. These blondies not only come together in just 15 minutes of prep but also deliver a fun twist on a traditional favorite, making them a sure-fire crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Imagine tasting a soft, chewy blondie adorned with swirls of cinnamon goodness, topped with a creamy icing that will have everyone reaching for seconds! Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why Are Cinnamon Roll Blondies So Irresistible?
Unmatched Flavor: The delightful combination of buttery blondies and sweet cinnamon swirls provides a flavor explosion you'll crave.
Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy fresh, homemade dessert without the hassle of traditional baking.
Creamy Topping: A luscious cream cheese icing drizzled on top takes these blondies to the next level, offering a sweet contrast to the rich base.
Perfect for Sharing: Cut into bars, they’re perfect for gatherings or family nights, guaranteeing they'll disappear before your eyes!
Endless Versatility: Serve them warm, cold, or even a la mode for a delightful twist—whatever suits your mood! Enjoy more recipes like these in our dessert section for further inspiration.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondies
- Butter – 1 cup, melted; it enriches the dough and adds moisture.
- Brown Sugar – 1 ½ cups; provides a deep, caramel-like flavor that complements the blondies.
- Eggs – 2 large; they bind the ingredients together, creating a soft texture.
- Vanilla Extract – 2 tsp; enhances the overall flavor, making it more aromatic.
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups; gives structure to the blondies, ensuring they’re not too dense.
- Salt – ½ tsp; balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- Brown Sugar – ½ cup; adds sweetness and depth to the cinnamon layer.
- Cinnamon – 1 tbsp; the star ingredient that gives these Cinnamon Roll Blondies their signature taste.
- Butter – ¼ cup, melted; makes it easier to create that delightful swirl throughout the batter.
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- Cream Cheese – 4 oz, softened; provides a rich, tangy base for the icing.
- Powdered Sugar – 1 cup; sweetens the icing and gives it a smooth texture.
- Milk – 1–2 tbsp; adds creaminess and helps adjust the consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – ½ tsp; brightens the icing with a lovely vanilla flavor.
Now that we have our ingredients assembled, let’s jump into the steps that turn these components into a delectable treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, take a moment to grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will ensure your Cinnamon Roll Blondies are easy to lift out once baked and keep their delicious edges intact.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of melted butter with 1 ½ cups of brown sugar. Stir in two large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Next, gently fold in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt, being careful not to overmix to keep the blondies tender.
Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a separate bowl, mix together ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and ¼ cup of melted butter. Stir until you achieve a texture reminiscent of wet sand. This cinnamon mixture will add delightful swirls to your Cinnamon Roll Blondies and infuse them with an irresistible flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Blondies
Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it reaches all corners. Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cinnamon mixture over the top of the blondie batter. With a butter knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a beautiful pattern that will reveal itself once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The edges should turn a lovely golden color, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean, indicating that your Cinnamon Roll Blondies are ready to come out of the oven. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before icing.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
While the blondies are cooling, it’s time to make the cream cheese icing. In a mixing bowl, beat 4 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1–2 tablespoons of milk, mixing until creamy. Finally, stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Once the blondies are completely cool, drizzle your luscious cream cheese icing over the top. Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before cutting the blondies into bars. These Cinnamon Roll Blondies are now ready to be shared with family and friends—prepare for the compliments!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Indulging in these sweet, swirly treats is delightful, but pairing them well can elevate your dessert experience to a whole new level!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold contrast of vanilla ice cream complements the warm, gooey blondies, creating a delightful mix of temperatures that tantalizes the senses.
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Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee provides a robust companion, balancing the sweetness while enhancing the rich, cinnamon flavors of the blondies.
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Fresh Berries: A side of juicy strawberries or raspberries introduces a burst of freshness and acidity, cutting through the sweetness and brightening each bite.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the blondies for an added layer of indulgence; the rich caramel will deepen the flavor while adding a decadent touch.
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Chai Latte: Serve with a comforting chai latte to harmonize the spiced notes of the blondies, creating a cozy and comforting pairing that's perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
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Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola on top provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts the soft, chewy texture of the blondies while adding a wholesome touch.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream enhances the richness of the cinnamon roll blondies, making each bite feel luxurious without overwhelming the flavors.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, adding a rich chocolate drizzle can create a deliciously sweet combination that takes these blondies over the top.
Storage Tips for 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 soft and chewy.
Fridge: For longer storage, they can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to seal them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, cut the blondies into bars, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to firm up, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla, then folding in the flour and salt. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. You can also mix the cinnamon swirl components ahead of time, as they hold up well in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just spread the chilled batter into your baking dish, add the swirl, and bake as directed. This approach not only saves you valuable time but guarantees your blondies will be just as delicious when you finish them!
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Blondies
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and butter create a richer flavor and improve the texture of your Cinnamon Roll Blondies. Always check expiration dates!
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Don’t Overmix: When folding in the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies, so keep it gentle for a light, fluffy result.
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Swirl with Care: To prevent the cinnamon mixture from disappearing into the batter, make sure to swirl gently, keeping some of it visible on top for that beautiful finish.
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Cool Completely: Ensure the blondies cool completely before icing. This will help the cream cheese icing set nicely and avoid melting into the batter!
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Perfect Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy for longer. Enjoy each bite!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Variations
Feel free to get creative and give your Cinnamon Roll Blondies a personal touch while keeping that irresistible flavor!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still shine!
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Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a delightful crunch and added richness. Nuts will pair beautifully with the cinnamon swirls, enhancing every bite.
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Extra Cinnamon: Increase the cinnamon to 2 tablespoons for a bolder flavor that truly mimics classic cinnamon rolls. If you're a cinnamon lover, this extra kick will make your day!
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Brown Butter: Use browned butter instead of melted for a deep, nutty flavor that elevates these blondies to a gourmet treat. Just be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
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Maple Icing: Substitute maple syrup for milk in the cream cheese icing for a delightful maple cream cheese glaze. It adds an unexpected twist and a rich complexity to the sweetness!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle over the cooled blondies for an extra decadent treat. This sweet contrast will have everyone reaching for more!
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Spicy Kick: Combine ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper with your cinnamon for a surprising heat that dances on your palate. This bold variation will intrigue adventurous eaters at your gathering!
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Fill With Nutella: Before spreading the cinnamon mixture, create swirls of Nutella throughout the blondie batter for a chocolatey surprise in every bite. Who could resist that?
Enjoy these variations, and don't hesitate to explore further! For more mouthwatering desserts, check out our dessert section and discover your new favorite recipes.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right butter for my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use unsalted butter—this allows you to control the salt content in your recipe. Make sure the butter is at room temperature or slightly melted for easier mixing, which helps in achieving that perfect gooey blondie consistency.
How should I store my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
For optimal freshness, store your Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week—just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent them from drying out. Trust me, you’ll want them soft and chewy!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies? If yes, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your Cinnamon Roll Blondies! First, cut them into bars and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer the bars to a freezer-safe container or bag, layering parchment paper between them if you need to stack. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What should I do if my blondies seem too dense?
If your Cinnamon Roll Blondies turned out dense, it could be that the flour was overmixed. Remember, gentle mixing is key! Next time, fold the flour into your batter just until combined. Also, check to ensure you're measuring flour correctly—using the scoop-and-level method rather than scooping directly from the bag can prevent adding too much flour.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you're catering to specific dietary needs, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring you check that it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum. For dairy-free options, use a dairy-free butter substitute and cream cheese alternative for the icing. It's a great way to keep the deliciousness while accommodating those with allergies or dietary preferences.
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the blondie batter and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before spreading in the pan and baking. This is a great option if you want to lighten your prep time for a gathering!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies: A Soft, Gooey Delight to Crave
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- mixing bowls
- Electric Mixer
Ingredients
For the Blondies
- 1 cup Butter melted
- 1.5 cups Brown Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 0.5 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Cinnamon
- 0.25 cup Butter melted
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 oz Cream Cheese softened
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1-2 tablespoon Milk to adjust consistency
- 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of melted butter with 1 ½ cups of brown sugar. Stir in two large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt, being careful not to overmix.
- In a separate bowl, mix together ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and ¼ cup of melted butter until you achieve a sandy texture.
- Spread the blondie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Drop dollops of the cinnamon mixture on top and swirl gently with a knife.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan before preparing the cream cheese icing.
- In a mixing bowl, beat 4 oz of cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1–2 tablespoons of milk, mixing until creamy.
- Stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, then drizzle over the cooled blondies and cut into bars.
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