Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe

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If you’ve ever wished for a delightful marriage between the cozy warmth of cinnamon rolls and the chewy indulgence of blondies, look no further than this Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe. Imagine swirls of fragrant cinnamon sugar nestled within a buttery, golden blondie base, finished off with a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s the perfect treat to satisfy any sweet craving while feeling like a warm hug from your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a treat bursting with flavor and the perfect texture. Each component plays a vital role, from creating the tender crumb to weaving cinnamon’s signature warmth throughout.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: This gives the blondies their rich, buttery base and keeps them wonderfully moist.
• 1 ¾ cups light brown sugar (packed): Adds deep molasses sweetness and helps with that chewy texture.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Binds everything together while keeping the blondies soft.
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature: Adds extra richness for a tender crumb.
• 1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with subtle aromatic notes.
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure and body of the blondies.
• 2 tsp corn starch: Helps keep the blondies soft and prevents them from becoming cakey.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Provides just the right amount of lift.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: Balances out sweetness and intensifies flavor.
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for cinnamon swirl): Keeps the cinnamon swirl moist and flavorful.
• ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed) for cinnamon swirl: Adds that iconic cinnamon roll sweetness.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon: The star spice, bringing warmth and aroma in every bite.
• 3 oz cream cheese, softened (for glaze): Makes the glaze rich, creamy, and perfectly tangy.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for glaze): Adds smoothness to the finishing glaze.
• 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted: Creates a sweet, silky glaze that complements the blondies nicely.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds a touch of vanilla for a lovely finishing flavor.
• Pinch kosher salt (for glaze): Balances the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, which prevents sticking and helps you lift the blondies out seamlessly when they’re baked. This little prep step saves you from messy cleanups later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until it’s completely smooth and glossy. This combination is the foundation of your blondies, bringing moisture and that deep caramel flavor you want.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs one at a time into your sugar-butter mixture, stirring well after each addition. Then, add the egg yolk and vanilla extract. The eggs give the blondies just the right elasticity while vanilla enhances the sweet aroma.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, corn starch, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. This ensures the baking soda and spice are evenly distributed, so every bite is consistent and flavorful.

Step 5: Fold Dry Into Wet

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle; mix just until everything comes together. Over-mixing can make blondies tough, but a light touch keeps them tender and soft.

Step 6: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and brown sugar for the swirl. Spread half the blondie batter evenly into your prepared pan. Sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, then add the remaining batter on top. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar on the very top. This layering is what gives these blondies their signature cinnamon roll look and taste.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your creation in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and test with a toothpick — it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The result is a blondie that’s crisp along the edges with a tender, gooey interior.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the blondies cool slightly, whisk together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The glaze should be smooth and creamy. Drizzle it lovingly over the warm blondies, allowing it to melt slightly and add that perfect tangy sweetness.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or chopped toasted pecans on the glaze before it sets. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate your presentation while adding a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich blondies.

Side Dishes

Serve these blondies alongside a cup of hot coffee or chai tea to complement the cinnamon notes beautifully. They also pair brilliantly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your blondies into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or special occasions. Layer them with whipped cream and fresh fruit in a trifles glass for an elegant dessert presentation. Or simply stack them on a dessert platter to beckon guests to dig in immediately.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their moist texture and rich flavor without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these blondies later, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their flavor or texture.

Reheating

To refresh your blondies, simply microwave individual pieces for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a low oven for 5-7 minutes. The glaze softens slightly, and the blondies regain their irresistible softness, as if freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but be mindful you might want to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the blondies from tasting too salty.

Why is there corn starch in the recipe?

Corn starch helps to keep these blondies soft and prevent them from becoming dense or cakey, ensuring a tender but chewy texture.

Can I substitute the brown sugar with white sugar?

While you can, brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor that white sugar doesn’t provide, so it’s best to stick with the recipe for that classic cinnamon roll taste.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for the glaze?

You could make a simple vanilla glaze with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, but the cream cheese adds a lovely tang and richness that really completes these blondies.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking, and make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, this Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe is bound to become one of your go-to desserts for any occasion. It’s the perfect combination of cinnamon’s irresistible warmth with the chewy, buttery goodness of blondies, topped with a creamy glaze that makes every bite a moment of pure joy. Give it a try and watch it disappear faster than you can say ‘seconds, please!’

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