As I gazed into my well-worn baking cookbook, a delightful aroma wafted through the kitchen, whisking me back to the cozy mornings of my childhood. With a luscious blend of cinnamon and sweetness, these Cinnamon Roll Blondies are my delicious twist on two classic favorites. Not only are they quick to whip up in just 15 minutes of prep, but they also bring a crowd-pleasing warmth that will make any gathering feel special. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery treat, luxuriously topped with a creamy icing that elevates every crumb to pure bliss. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee, these blondies allow you to break free from the fast-food routine while indulging in a homemade gem. Are you ready to make your kitchen smell like a cinnamon paradise?
Why Are These Blondies So Irresistible?
Simplicity, the recipe comes together quickly with just 15 minutes of prep — perfect for busy bakers! Decadent flavors meld together, boasting the warm, cinnamon goodness reminiscent of your favorite rolls. Creamy icing drizzled on top transforms these into a dessert that'll impress everyone. Versatile, they’re delightful for brunch or an afternoon treat. Crowd-pleaser! These blondies will have everyone asking for seconds, making them the ideal addition to any gathering. If you love cozy, homemade desserts, be sure to check out our other favorite recipes to keep your baking adventures fresh!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Ingredients
Ready to dive into these blissful delights? Here’s everything you need to whip up your Cinnamon Roll Blondies!
For the Blondie Batter
• 1 cup butter, melted – Adds a rich, buttery flavor that creates the perfect base.
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar – Sweetens the batter and gives a deeper, caramel-like taste.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together to create a soft texture.
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely warm depth.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure needed for these decadent bars.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances and intensifies the flavors for a well-rounded sweetness.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
• ½ cup brown sugar – A sweet, caramel flavor that complements the cinnamon.
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon – The star of the show that brings that classic cinnamon roll taste!
• ¼ cup butter, melted – Ensures the cinnamon mixture can swirl smoothly into the blondies.
For the Cream Cheese Icing
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy and rich topping that enhances the blondies.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the icing and gives it that perfect drizzle-able consistency.
• 1–2 tablespoon milk – Adjusts the icing's thickness to your liking for easy drizzling.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a touch of warmth to the icing, making it irresistible.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a 9x13-inch baking dish and either grease it with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This preparation step sets the stage for your delicious Cinnamon Roll Blondies, ensuring they bake evenly.
Step 2: Make the Blondie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of melted butter with 1 ½ cups of brown sugar, stirring until smooth and glossy. Next, add in 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually fold in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt, being careful not to overmix for that perfect blondie texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a separate bowl, create the cinnamon swirl by combining ½ cup of brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and ¼ cup of melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, and you can see the cinnamon evenly distributed. This mixture will add an irresistible layer of flavor to your Cinnamon Roll Blondies.
Step 4: Assemble the Blondies
Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth layer. Then, using a spoon, drop dollops of the cinnamon mixture on top of the batter. With a butter knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter to create beautiful, marbled patterns without fully blending it in.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled blondies in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, which could impact their gooey texture.
Step 6: Cool and Make the Icing
Once baked, remove the Cinnamon Roll Blondies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, beat 4 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.
Step 7: Drizzle the Icing
After the blondies have cooled, drizzle the cream cheese icing generously over the top. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the icing evenly for an enticing finish. Now your homemade Cinnamon Roll Blondies are ready to be cut into squares and enjoyed, offering a sweet twist on a classic favorite!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Room Temperature: Store your Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and moist.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate blondies in an airtight container for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: Freeze blondies in a single layer with parchment paper between them for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you're ready to indulge again.
Reheating: Warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore that fresh-baked goodness before serving.
Helpful Tricks for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
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Butter Temperature: Use melted butter that is slightly cooled to avoid scrambling the eggs when mixed. This ensures a smooth batter for your Cinnamon Roll Blondies.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough blondies, robbing them of their desired soft texture.
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Perfect Swirl: For the cinnamon swirl, create dollops on the batter instead of fully mixing it in. This maintains distinct layers, ensuring every bite packs that lovely cinnamon flavor.
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Test for Doneness: Start checking for doneness a few minutes early. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean; this keeps the center delightfully gooey.
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Cooling Time: Let the blondies cool completely before icing. This prevents the cream cheese icing from melting and losing texture, leading to an irresistible finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the blondie batter and cinnamon swirl up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the batter (steps 2 and 3) and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just spread the batter in your baking dish, swirl in the cinnamon mixture, and pop them in the oven. For the cream cheese icing, you can also prep it up to 3 days in advance; just keep it in the fridge until you're ready to drizzle it over the cooled blondies. This way, you’ll have indulgent, homemade treats at a moment’s notice, just as delightful as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender blondie while sipping on a warm beverage—the ultimate dessert experience!
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Fresh Fruit Salad:
A light and refreshing fruit salad brightens the palate, balancing the richness of the blondies with vibrant flavors. -
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream:
Serve warm blondies with a scoop of creamy ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. A classic choice! -
Coffee or Espresso:
Pair your blondies with a robust cup of coffee to enhance the cinnamon flavor and create a comforting moment. -
Whipped Cream Topping:
Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a light and airy finish, making each bite even more luxurious. -
Chocolate Drizzle:
A drizzle of chocolate sauce will elevate the desserts, creating a rich chocolaty layer that plays beautifully with the cinnamon. -
Caramel Sauce:
Drizzling warm caramel over the blondies adds a decadent sweet layer, harmonizing every bite with sweet, sticky goodness.
Pair all these delicious options together for an unforgettable dessert experience that your family and friends will cherish!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Cinnamon Roll Blondies with these delicious variations!
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Nutty Boost: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. The nuts provide an excellent texture contrast, enhancing each bite.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to make a gluten-free version. Everyone can enjoy these treats without sacrificing flavor!
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Spice it Up: Mix in ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth. This subtle twist in spice can truly elevate the flavor profile.
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Add Chocolate: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a delicious chocolatey surprise. The melting chocolate creates pockets of gooey goodness that take these blondies to the next level!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk for the icing to make a dairy-free version. You won’t miss the creaminess, and it adds a unique flavor!
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Swirl of Pumpkin: Replace half of the butter with ½ cup of pumpkin puree. This will not only add a lovely flavor but also moistness to the blondies. Perfect for fall flavors!
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Coconut Delight: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist. The coconut adds a chewy texture that complements the rich blondies beautifully.
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Maple Glaze: For the icing, substitute maple syrup for milk in the cream cheese glaze. This change brings a lovely maple taste that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon!
These adaptations not only cater to different dietary needs but also invite everyone to experience the warmth of homemade baking. For more delightful treats, be sure to explore our classic brownie recipes for a chocolatey option or indulge in our delicious cookie bars that promise to please any sweet tooth!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter that’s softened but not melted for the best texture. Fresh eggs are essential for moisture and binding. For the best flavor, choose fresh vanilla extract and packed brown sugar that's soft—dark brown sugar adds a deeper flavor, while light brown sugar gives a milder touch.
What’s the best way to store Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
To keep your Cinnamon Roll Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them a bit cooler, you can also refrigerate them in a container for up to a week. Just remember to allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying for that delightful soft texture!
Can I freeze my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze your blondies, first, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place these in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or warm them slightly in the microwave.
What should I do if my blondies come out too dry?
If your Cinnamon Roll Blondies turn out dry, it’s often a result of overbaking. To prevent this in the future, keep a close eye on baking times and check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recommended time. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs. For a fix, you can drizzle some milk over dry pieces to rehydrate them slightly or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Are Cinnamon Roll Blondies safe for pets or those with allergies?
When it comes to pets, avoid sharing your Cinnamon Roll Blondies as they contain ingredients like butter, sugar, and eggs, which can upset their stomachs. For those with allergies, be cautious with eggs and dairy in the recipe. You can try using egg substitutes like applesauce or flaxseed and vegan cream cheese to accommodate specific dietary needs. Always double-check labels for potential allergens!
Indulge in Warm Cinnamon Roll Blondies for a Sweet Twist
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- mixing bowl
- spatula
- whisk
Ingredients
For the Blondie Batter
- 1 cup butter, melted Adds a rich, buttery flavor that creates the perfect base.
- 1.5 cups brown sugar Sweetens the batter and gives a deeper, caramel-like taste.
- 2 large eggs Binds the ingredients together to create a soft texture.
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely warm depth.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides the structure needed for these decadent bars.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Balances and intensifies the flavors for a well-rounded sweetness.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 0.5 cup brown sugar A sweet, caramel flavor that complements the cinnamon.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon The star of the show that brings that classic cinnamon roll taste!
- 0.25 cup butter, melted Ensures the cinnamon mixture can swirl smoothly into the blondies.
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened Creates a creamy and rich topping that enhances the blondies.
- 1 cup powdered sugar Sweetens the icing and gives it that perfect drizzle-able consistency.
- 1-2 tablespoon milk Adjusts the icing's thickness to your liking for easy drizzling.
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds a touch of warmth to the icing, making it irresistible.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking dish.
- Combine melted butter and brown sugar in a bowl, stirring until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well. Gradually fold in flour and salt.
- In another bowl, create the cinnamon swirl by combining brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Spread blondie batter into the baking dish, dollop cinnamon mixture on top, and swirl gently with a butter knife.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Let blondies cool, then make cream cheese icing by mixing all icing ingredients until creamy.
- Drizzle icing over cooled blondies, spread evenly, and cut into squares to serve.
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