Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe

If you love the warm, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll but crave something with a bit more texture and ease, then these Cinnamon Roll Blondies are going to be your new obsession. Imagine the tender chewiness of a classic blondie combined with the irresistible swirl of cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. This treat hits all the right notes with its buttery sweetness and just the right amount of spice, making Cinnamon Roll Blondies perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack that feels like a hug in baked form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards baking these delightful Cinnamon Roll Blondies. Each ingredient plays its role—creating a tender base, that iconic cinnamon swirl, and a creamy icing that pulls it all together with perfectly balanced flavors and textures.

• 1 cup butter, melted: Provides rich, buttery flavor and keeps the blondies moist and tender.
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar: Adds deep sweetness with a hint of molasses for that classic chewiness.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together, giving structure and a soft crumb.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, fragrant touch.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the blondies their sturdy yet tender body.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the other flavors.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (for swirl): Creates the sweet, gooey cinnamon swirl that makes these blondies unforgettable.
• 1 tbsp cinnamon: The star spice that adds warm, spicy depth.
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (for swirl): Helps bind the cinnamon mixture and adds richness.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: For the luscious, tangy icing that finishes the blondies beautifully.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese glaze for that perfect drizzle.
• 1–2 tbsp milk: Adjusts the icing consistency for smooth pouring.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for icing): Adds a sweet, aromatic note to the glaze.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Before diving into mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the perfect baking temperature. Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make removing blondies afterward a breeze.

Step 2: Whip Up the Blondie Batter

In a large bowl, stir together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Next, beat in the eggs and vanilla extract, creating a silky base. Carefully fold in the flour and salt, mixing gently just until combined—overmixing will make the blondies tough, and we want soft, tender bites.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. The goal is a texture like wet sand, which will create those beautiful pockets of cinnamon goodness throughout your blondies.

Step 4: Assemble the Blondies

Spread your blondie batter evenly in the prepared pan. Then dollop spoonfuls of the cinnamon swirl mixture across the top. Use a butter knife or the back of a spoon to gently swirl the two together, creating a marbled look that tastes as amazing as it looks.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your blondies for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the edges golden and firm while the center is just set—insert a toothpick near the middle, and it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Let the blondies cool completely before moving on to the icing.

Step 6: Create the Cream Cheese Icing

Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until perfectly combined and spreadable. If the icing is too thick, add the extra tablespoon of milk slowly until you achieve a drizzle-worthy consistency.

Step 7: Finish with a Gorgeous Glaze

Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the cooled blondies in generous ribbons. Let it set slightly before slicing into squares full of cinnamon-swirled bliss.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Garnishes

These blondies are stunning on their own, but adding a few finishing touches makes them even more special. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and extra warmth. Fresh berries or a few edible flowers can elevate presentation for afternoon tea or special occasions.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cinnamon Roll Blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert treat. For a cozy breakfast vibe, serve alongside a robust cup of coffee or spiced chai tea to complement the rich cinnamon flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress friends, cut the blondies into bite-sized squares and serve on a decorative platter with small forks or toothpicks for easy sharing. Alternately, layer them in a dessert parfait with whipped cream and fruit for a stunning layered treat that highlights each delicious element.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Cinnamon Roll Blondies have cooled and the icing has set, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and soft, ready for snacking anytime.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, wrap the blondies tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

To enjoy your blondies warm again, pop a piece in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or briefly heat in a low oven. This brings back that just-baked softness and lets the cream cheese icing melt slightly for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?

While you can substitute with regular granulated sugar, brown sugar adds moisture and a richer flavor that is essential for the texture and taste of these blondies. Using brown sugar is highly recommended.

Is it necessary to swirl the cinnamon mixture?

The swirl creates those signature pockets of cinnamon flavor that mimic a cinnamon roll. You could spread the cinnamon mix evenly, but the swirl gives a more visually appealing look and subtle bursts of spice.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, making sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain texture. The blondies should bake up just as delicious.

How thick should the cinnamon swirl be?

The cinnamon mixture should resemble wet sand—thick enough to hold its shape but spreadable. This consistency makes it easy to drop in dollops and swirl without sinking or blending completely into the batter.

Can I replace cream cheese with something else in the icing?

Cream cheese gives the icing its tangy richness, which contrasts beautifully with the sweet blondies. If you need a substitute, try mascarpone or Greek yogurt thickened with powdered sugar, though texture and flavor will vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a new crowd-pleaser that combines the best of cinnamon rolls and blondies, these Cinnamon Roll Blondies are an absolute winner. With their buttery base, spiced swirls, and creamy icing, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your next favorite comfort treat to share with friends and family.

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