There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon drifting through a warm kitchen, especially when it mingles with the rich scent of baked goods. Recently, while experimenting with leftover ingredients, I stumbled upon the perfect mash-up: Cinnamon Roll Blondies. These bars capture the buttery softness of blondies, infused with that iconic cinnamon roll flavor, all topped off with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
If you’re like me and often find yourself in need of an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is the answer. With just one bowl and minimal prep, you can whip up these chewy delights in no time. They serve as the ideal treat for cozy gatherings, a sweet pick-me-up after a long day, or simply a way to indulge your sweet tooth. Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into the delicious world of Cinnamon Roll Blondies!
Why Are Cinnamon Roll Blondies So Irresistible?
Irresistible, this Cinnamon Roll Blondies recipe transforms your dessert game by blending flavors you love. One-Bowl Wonder: No need for complex mixing; everything comes together effortlessly in one bowl. Buttery and Chewy: Each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience you crave. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, they appeal to both kids and adults alike. Quick Prep Time: Ready in less than an hour, it’s a go-to solution when you’re short on time! Delicious Frosting: The cream cheese frosting elevates these blondies, turning them into a real showstopper for any occasion!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful treats!
For the Blondies
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor; dark brown sugar can deepen the taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the blondies; use a gluten-free flour blend to make this gluten-free.
- Granulated White Sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps with browning; feel free to reduce by 1/4 cup for a less sweet option.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
- Baking Powder – Ensures the blondies rise to the perfect height; adjust baking soda quantity if substituting.
- Cinnamon – Provides the signature flavor of cinnamon rolls; no substitutes are recommended here.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness for the frosting with a smooth texture; sugar substitutes can be used for a lower-calorie version.
These Cinnamon Roll Blondies will be your new favorite easy dessert!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Blondies
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Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper. This ensures your blondies bake evenly and release easily.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter and then combine it with light brown and granulated sugars until blended. Add the eggs and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cinnamon, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your blondies chewy.
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Swirl Mixture: Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle a layer of cinnamon sugar on top, and then add the remaining batter. Gently swirl through the layers with a knife for that signature cinnamon roll effect.
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Bake: Place your pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 38 minutes. You want the edges to be golden brown, while the center should be slightly underdone for a gooey texture.
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Cool: Once baked, allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling time lets them set up a bit more before transferring them to a wire rack.
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Frost: While the blondies cool, mix powdered sugar with the cream cheese and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle this creamy frosting over the cooled blondies for a delightful finish before slicing them into squares.
Optional: Serve warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
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Watch Baking Time: Ovens vary, so check your blondies early. Overbaking can lead to dryness, so aim for golden edges.
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Avoid Overmixing: To maintain a chewy texture, mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can result in a denser blondie.
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Swirl with Care: When swirling the batter, use a gentle hand. A few swirls give the blondies that iconic cinnamon roll look without overmixing.
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Cool Completely: Let your blondies cool before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and keeps it beautifully creamy.
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Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding nuts or swapping the cream cheese frosting with caramel for a fun twist! Enjoy your delightful Cinnamon Roll Blondies!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pre-make the cream cheese frosting and refrigerate it, keeping it fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into your lined pan, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then proceed with baking. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, freshly baked blondies with minimal effort, just as delightful as if you made them from scratch that day!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Indulging in these dreamy, chewy treats invites the opportunity to create a delightful meal experience.
- Rich Coffee: Perfectly complements the sweetness and enhances the cinnamon flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a cool contrast, melting delightfully on warm blondies for that extra indulgence.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries provide a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the blondies with a burst of flavor.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a fluffy texture that complements the dense, chewy blondies, elevating your dessert experience.
- Milk: A classic pairing, the smooth, creamy liquid soothes the sweet crunch while making every bite feel like a comforting hug!
- Chai Latte: The warm spices harmonize with the cinnamon, creating a cozy vibe that’s perfect for chilly afternoons or gatherings.
Feel free to mix and match for a truly personal touch to your sweet treats!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Cinnamon Roll Blondies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Nut Add-Ins: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. They add texture and a nutty flavor complementing the richness perfectly.
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Frosting Variations: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a drizzle of caramel or a rich chocolate ganache. Either option will elevate your blondies to an entirely new level of deliciousness!
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Flavor Swaps: Try substituting cinnamon with pumpkin spice or nutmeg for a seasonal twist that will surprise your taste buds.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil for the butter and a dairy-free cream cheese for frosting. You’ll still get all the comfort without the dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, allowing everyone to enjoy these sweet treats without worry.
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Lower-Sugar Version: Reduce granulated sugar by 1/4 cup and use a sugar substitute in your frosting for a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
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Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh ginger to the batter for a surprising kick of heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Let your imagination run wild as you explore these variations, creating a personalized version of your beloved Cinnamon Roll Blondies!
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 maintain their soft, chewy texture.
- Fridge: If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate the blondies for up to a week. Make sure they’re covered well to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the blondies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month.
- Reheating: To enjoy your blondies warm and gooey, microwave them on a low setting for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe FAQs
How ripe should my ingredients be for the best Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Absolutely, the quality of your ingredients impacts the final result! For the best flavor, use room temperature eggs to help with blending and give your blondies a tender crumb. The butter should be melted but not too hot, ideally just cool enough to touch. This helps when mixing with the sugars without cooking the eggs.
What’s the best way to store my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
I recommend storing your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh for a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure they are covered well to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies, and how?
Yes, definitely! To freeze your blondies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or (for that just-baked warmth) pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
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What should I do if my blondies turn out dense or cakey?
Very! If you find your blondies too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or too much flour. When combining the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid activating the gluten too much. Also, make sure not to pack down the flour while measuring. If they rise and then sink in the middle, they may be underbaked; aim for the slight underdone center for the chewy vibe.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If anyone has allergies, make sure to avoid common allergens like eggs or dairy. You can easily use a flax egg as a substitute for a vegan option and coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. Always check labels if using store-bought ingredients to ensure they’re allergy-safe.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
The more the merrier! You can easily mix in nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch. For a flavor twist, consider swapping cinnamon with pumpkin spice or nutmeg. Just make sure to keep the ratios balanced, so the blondies don’t become too dry or dense.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Easy, Chewy Treats for Any Occasion
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter and combine it with light brown and granulated sugars until blended. Add the eggs and beat until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cinnamon, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your blondies chewy.
- Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle a layer of cinnamon sugar on top, and then add the remaining batter. Gently swirl through the layers with a knife for that signature cinnamon roll effect.
- Bake for 30 to 38 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly underdone for a gooey texture.
- Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Mix powdered sugar with cream cheese and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle this frosting over the cooled blondies before slicing them into squares.