As the scent of warm cinnamon began to fill my kitchen, I couldn’t help but think of cozy afternoons spent savoring sweet treats. That’s when the idea for these Cinnamon Roll Blondies first sparked—an irresistible blend of gooey richness and that beloved cinnamon swirl we crave. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that transforms classic flavors into easy-to-make bars, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying a sweet tooth on a quiet night in. With just a quick prep time and minimal fuss, you can whip up these blondies and enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, allowing you to stock up on homemade goodness for those busy days. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game with these delightful treats?
Why are Cinnamon Roll Blondies so irresistible?
Simplicity: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delightful treat that requires only 15 minutes of prep.
Warm, Inviting Aroma: The smell of cinnamon wafting through your home will have everyone asking what you’re baking!
Gooey Goodness: These blondies offer a soft and chewy texture that perfectly complements the sweet cinnamon swirl.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a brunch or craving a late-night snack.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve at parties or gatherings, and watch them disappear in a flash!
Rediscover the joy of homemade desserts with these comforting Cinnamon Roll Blondies.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondie Batter
- Unsalted Butter – melts to provide a rich, creamy base for the blondies.
- Light Brown Sugar – adds deep caramel notes that enhance the sweetness.
- Granulated White Sugar – balances the flavors, helping to create a tender crumb.
- All-Purpose Flour – the essential building block that holds everything together.
- Large Eggs – bind the ingredients and give the blondies a lovely structure.
- Baking Powder – adds just the right amount of lift for a soft texture.
- Cinnamon – infuses a warm, nostalgic flavor that evokes the essence of cinnamon rolls.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – provides a sweet finish, perfect for drizzling atop the blondies.
- Cream Cheese – adds a tangy richness that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Milk – adjusts the consistency of the frosting for a smooth drizzle.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take an 8x8 inch pan and line it with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal later. This prepares the perfect environment for your Cinnamon Roll Blondies to bake evenly and come out easily once they're golden brown.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter until it’s warm but not bubbling. Stir in 1 cup of light brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated white sugar until well blended and creamy. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating them into the mixture until it becomes smooth. The combination of these ingredients lays the foundation for your delicious blondies.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon into your wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined, taking care not to overmix. You want a thick batter that holds together nicely—this is the key to achieving that perfect chewy texture in your Cinnamon Roll Blondies.
Step 4: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar over the top, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. Carefully add the remaining batter on top and use a knife to gently swirl the layers together. This swirling will create that signature cinnamon roll effect once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 38 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you're looking for edges that are golden brown while the center remains slightly underdone. This ensures a deliciously gooey middle that's characteristic of the best Cinnamon Roll Blondies out there.
Step 6: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the blondies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling period allows them to set properly before you transfer them. Use the parchment overhang to lift the blondies out of the pan gently and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While the blondies are cooling, prepare the frosting by mixing 2 cups of powdered sugar with cream cheese and a splash of milk in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain. This sweet drizzle will enhance your Cinnamon Roll Blondies, adding a delightful finishing touch that complements their rich flavor beautifully.
Step 8: Drizzle and Slice
Once the blondies have completely cooled, drizzle the prepared cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Allow it to set slightly before slicing the blondies into squares. This final touch not only enhances their taste but also makes your Cinnamon Roll Blondies a visually appealing treat that's sure to impress family and friends alike.
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. They’ll remain soft and delicious for snacking!
Fridge: If you prefer, refrigerate the blondies for up to a week. This enhances their flavors and keeps them fresh. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying!
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the blondies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month!
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, allow to thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 10-15 seconds. A quick reheat brings back that fresh-baked quality!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Blondies are perfect for busy cooks eager to save time without sacrificing deliciousness! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the wet and dry ingredients and store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prevents browning while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into your lined pan, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar, and bake as directed. For those who wish to enjoy them later, you can also freeze the baked blondies for up to a month in an airtight container. Just thaw at room temperature before serving, and they'll be just as delightful!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Indulging in warm, gooey blondies is a treat in itself, but pairing them with complementary flavors makes for a delightful feast.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a tart contrast, balancing the sweetness of the blondies and creating a refreshing bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm blondies, enhancing their richness and delivering pure comfort in each spoonful.
- Coffee or Espresso: The traditional pairing with sweet desserts, a bold coffee or espresso brings out the nutty flavors of the blondies while cutting through the sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a lovely texture and can be flavored with vanilla or cinnamon to enhance the blondies’ flavor profile.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup adds depth and an extra touch of sweetness, reminiscent of cozy breakfast moments while elevating the experience.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A simple dark chocolate drizzle over the top provides a rich contrast, giving your blondies an indulgent twist while deepening the flavor layers.
- Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea pairs well, echoing the cinnamon notes of the blondies and offering a soothing, aromatic experience.
- Caramel Sauce: A layer of luscious caramel sauce drizzled over the blondies brings a sweet, buttery richness that complements their chewy texture beautifully.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Customization
Feel free to get creative and make these tender blondies your own with these delightful twists!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a safe option that doesn't skimp on taste.
-
Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the gooey sweetness wonderfully.
-
Chocolate Swirl: Incorporate ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter for an added touch of indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.
-
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil in place of unsalted butter and almond milk for the frosting, keeping the flavors rich yet dairy-free.
-
Spicy Kick: Mix in ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom for an unexpected flavor twist that adds depth to the cinnamon.
-
Maple Glaze: Swap cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze by substituting maple syrup in place of milk, creating a lovely sweetness.
-
Cinnamon Roll Variation: Add cream cheese filling to the batter by mixing ¼ cup cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, and a splash of vanilla before swirling it in!
-
Coconut Flakes: Stir in ½ cup of sweetened shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist that adds moisture and flavor.
With these variations, you can take your Cinnamon Roll Blondies to new heights of deliciousness!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid tough blondies. A gentle hand ensures a soft, chewy texture in your Cinnamon Roll Blondies.
- Watch the Bake Time: Check for doneness around the 30-minute mark. Slightly underbaking will result in that gooey middle everyone loves!
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and cream cheese come to room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting. This helps in blending them seamlessly.
- Customize the Swirl: Feel free to get creative with fillings! Adding chocolate chips or nuts can elevate your Cinnamon Roll Blondies to new flavors and textures.
- Cool Properly: Allow the blondies to cool fully before frosting to prevent the icing from melting and losing that beautiful drizzle.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cinnamon?
Absolutely! When selecting cinnamon for your Cinnamon Roll Blondies, go for high-quality ground cinnamon or Ceylon cinnamon for a more delicate and nuanced flavor. Look for a reddish-brown hue and a strong aroma without any clumps. Avoid cinnamon that appears dull and has an off smell; this often indicates it's past its prime.
How should I store my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
You can store your Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they are fully cooled, and they will remain delicious and soft for snacking!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Very! To freeze your Cinnamon Roll Blondies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or for a quicker option, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. This helps retain that fresh-baked taste!
What can I do if my blondies come out too dry?
If your Cinnamon Roll Blondies turn out dry, it could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To rescue them, you can warm them slightly in the microwave with a damp paper towel on top for a minute, which adds back some moisture. Next time, try spooning and leveling your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid excess flour.
Are Cinnamon Roll Blondies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, they can be! Cinnamon Roll Blondies are inherently nut-free as the recipe doesn't include any nuts. However, it’s always important to check the labels on your ingredients, especially for cross-contamination, if you're preparing them for someone with severe allergies.
How do I make sure my blondies are chewy and soft?
To achieve that perfect chewy texture in your Cinnamon Roll Blondies, it's crucial to avoid overmixing after you add the flour—mix until just combined! Also, keeping an eye on the bake time is essential; pulling them out slightly underdone (when the edges are golden but the center is set) ensures a gooey center. Baking them in a smaller pan can also help them stay thicker and chewier.

Indulgent Cinnamon Roll Blondies That Satisfy Every Craving
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the edges.
- In a large mixing bowl, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter and stir in 1 cup of light brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated white sugar until creamy. Add 2 eggs one at a time, beating until smooth.
- Gradually sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Stir gently until just combined.
- Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, then add the remaining batter and swirl together.
- Bake for 30 to 38 minutes, checking for golden edges and a slightly underdone center.
- Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a bowl, mix 2 cups of powdered sugar, cream cheese, and a splash of milk until smooth to prepare the frosting.
- Drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the cooled blondies and slice into squares.
Leave a Reply