As I sifted through my pantry one rainy afternoon, the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon began to dance through the air, sparking a delicious idea. I decided to whip up a batch of Cinnamon Roll Blondies—an indulgent blend of classic cinnamon rolls and deliciously chewy blondies that’s bound to brighten even the cloudiest of days. Not only are these treats incredibly simple to make, but they are also perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying that sweet tooth craving with just a few ingredients and minimal time. The combination of a rich, buttery base swirled with a sweet cinnamon mixture, topped off with a creamy icing, is simply irresistible. Can you resist the call of freshly baked goodness? Let’s dive in and create something magical together!
What Makes Cinnamon Roll Blondies So Tempting?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up these decadent blondies in no time—ideal for busy home cooks.
Irresistible aroma: The warm scent of cinnamon fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist tasting before they even cool.
Crowd-pleaser: These blondies are perfect for gatherings, easily serving twelve people—ideal for parties or family desserts.
Unique twist: Combining flavors from cinnamon rolls and blondies results in a treat that’s chewy, gooey, and utterly delightful!
Versatile indulgence: Enjoy them plain, or drizzle with your favorite frosting; they adapt perfectly to your personal touch. Plus, if you're looking for other delicious treats, don't forget to check out my easy homemade brownie recipe!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Ingredients
• Gather your pantry staples for a treat that's sure to impress!
For the Blondie Base
- 1 cup butter, melted – This adds richness and moisture, making the blondies indulgently fudgy.
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar – It gives that delightful caramel flavor that's essential for a perfect blondie.
- 2 large eggs – Help bind everything together for a tender texture.
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract – A must-have for that warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the sweetness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of your blondie, creating the deliciously chewy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness for a rounded flavor profile.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- ½ cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the cinnamon swirl, making every bite delectable.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon – The star player that infuses your blondies with that warm, comforting flavor.
- ¼ cup butter, melted – Ensures the cinnamon mixture can be easily swirled into the blondie base.
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened – Provides a luscious, creamy texture that perfectly complements the blondies.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve that smooth consistency for drizzling.
- 1–2 tablespoon milk – Adjusts the icing's thickness for an easy drizzle.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and ties everything together beautifully.
With these Cinnamon Roll Blondies ingredients, you're well on your way to baking a delightful treat that's bound to be a hit at your next gathering—or perhaps a cozy evening at home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This setup ensures your delightful Cinnamon Roll Blondies come out perfectly without sticking, setting the stage for your baking adventure.
Step 2: Make the Blondie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar, stirring until well mixed. Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy. Carefully fold in the flour and salt with a spatula, ensuring you don’t overmix—aim for a thick and luscious blondie base.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
For the cinnamon swirl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a separate bowl until it resembles wet sand. This mixture will create a delectable layering effect in your Cinnamon Roll Blondies, so ensure it's well combined. Set aside and get ready to assemble—your kitchen will soon be filled with that heavenly cinnamon aroma!
Step 4: Assemble the Blondies
Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Now, drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter, creating a random pattern. With a butter knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the blondie base, being careful not to mix it too much—perfect swirls will create beautiful flavor pockets.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on your Cinnamon Roll Blondies; they are ready when the edges turn a golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean. Let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before adding the icing.
Step 6: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Icing
While your blondies are cooling, prepare the creamy icing by beating the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a creamy consistency suitable for drizzling. This dreamy icing will elevate your Cinnamon Roll Blondies to the next level!
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Once the blondies have cooled completely, drizzle the cream cheese icing over the top using a spatula or a piping bag for a decorative effect. Allow the icing to set for a few minutes, then cut the blondies into squares. Now your delicious Cinnamon Roll Blondies are ready to be enjoyed—savor that sweet, comforting flavor with every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Cinnamon Roll Blondies are perfect for meal prep and can save you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the blondie batter and the cinnamon swirl mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the blondie batter and cinnamon swirl as directed, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just pour the blondie batter into the pan, swirl in the cinnamon mixture, and pop them in the oven. To maintain freshness, be sure to seal everything tightly; your blondies will emerge just as delicious as if made fresh that day! Enjoy a quicker baking time while still indulging in the warm, comforting flavors of Cinnamon Roll Blondies.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make your Cinnamon Roll Blondies even more personalized and scrumptious!
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Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon swirl for a surprising spicy twist that complements the sweetness.
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Double the Swirl: Increase the cinnamon swirl mixture by half to create even more flavorful layers throughout.
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Fruity Delight: Toss in ½ cup of diced apples or pears for a fruity surprise that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
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Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and cream cheese for a vegan-friendly alternative.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips into the blondie batter for a rich chocolatey flavor that balances the cinnamon.
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Seasonal Spins: During the fall, add a dash of nutmeg and ginger to embrace that cozy autumn vibe—perfect with warm drinks!
With these variations, your Cinnamon Roll Blondies can become a new favorite in many delightful versions! Don't forget to check out my tips on storing and serving these heavenly treats to keep them fresh and ready to enjoy.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Room Temperature: Store your cooled Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy for those sweet cravings!
Fridge: For longer storage, place the blondies in the fridge where they can stay fresh for up to a week. Just be sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: If you'd like to keep them for an extended period, freeze the blondies wrapped securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before indulging.
Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy a blondie, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to warm it up and regain that gooey goodness before serving with a drizzle of icing!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Indulging in sweet cinnamon roll blondies invites a symphony of flavors, making it easy to create a full and satisfying meal.
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Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the warm blondies and adds a refreshing contrast. The coolness balances the sweetness delightfully.
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Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of crispy bacon brings unexpected depth, enhancing the sweetness of the blondies with a hint of saltiness. It's a delightful breakfast twist!
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Fresh Berries: A medley of vibrant, juicy berries like raspberries and strawberries adds a pop of color and a refreshing burst of tartness, making the dessert feel light and fruity.
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Nutty Granola: Serve a side of nutty granola to add crunch and a healthy touch. Its toasted flavor pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the blondies.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate creates a cozy pairing, making each bite of the blondies feel even more indulgent amidst the silky chocolate.
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Chai Spiced Tea: A comforting brew of chai tea, with its warm spices, echoes the flavors of cinnamon roll blondies and invites a calming touch, perfect for afternoon enjoyment.
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Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your blondies with a warm caramel drizzle for added sweetness and a smooth texture that creates a little extra magic.
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Coffee: Enjoying these blondies alongside a steaming cup of coffee brings out their buttery and rich flavors, making for a timeless pairing that many adore.
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Cheesecake Bites: Accompany your blondies with small cheesecake bites for a delightful mix of flavors; the creaminess is a wonderful contrast to their softness.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Short Mixing Time: Avoid overmixing the batter; it can lead to dense blondies. Mix until combined for a soft and chewy texture.
Proper Swirling: Don’t over-swirling the cinnamon mixture. Gently create a marbled effect for beautiful layers without blending them completely.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time. Remove from the oven when the edges are golden and mostly clean with a toothpick; a few crumbs are normal.
Cool Completely: Be patient and let the blondies cool before adding icing. This helps the frosting set and prevents it from melting away.
Storage Secrets: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—if they last that long!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for the Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Absolutely! I recommend using unsalted butter for both the blondie base and the cinnamon swirl. This allows you to control the saltiness of the recipe, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors in your delicious treat.
How do I know if my ingredients are fresh enough?
Very! For the best results, your butter should be creamy and free of any chalky texture, while eggs should be firm and not have a foul smell. When it comes to the brown sugar, check if it’s soft and moist; if it has hardened, you can try reviving it by placing it in a sealed container with a slice of bread overnight.
How should I store my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Great question! Store your cooled Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, transfer to the fridge for up to a week, ensuring they’re well-sealed to keep their chewy texture.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your blondies, first, allow them to cool completely. Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and then reheat them in the microwave, just 10-15 seconds for that warm, gooey goodness!
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Very much so! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be mindful that the texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delightful! Don't forget to check for any additional gluten-containing ingredients in the icing if you’re serving someone with allergies.
What should I do if my blondies turn out too dry?
Don't worry! If you find your blondies have become dry, try reducing the baking time next time, or consider increasing the melted butter slightly for moisture. Also, remember that letting them cool completely before icing will help retain some moisture and enhance flavor. Helping tips and tweaks like these will ensure your Cinnamon Roll Blondies are perfectly luscious every time!
Indulge in Warm Cinnamon Roll Blondies for Your Sweet Tooth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar until well mixed. Add the eggs one at a time and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fold in the flour and salt until you have a thick blondie base.
- For the cinnamon swirl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until it resembles wet sand.
- Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture on top, swirling it carefully.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Let them cool completely.
- Prepare the icing by beating cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until creamy.
- Drizzle the icing over cooled blondies, allow to set, and cut into squares for serving.
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