What happens when cinnamon rolls meet gooey blondies? A match made in heaven, that’s what. These sweet treats are easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dessert, loaded with brown sugar and a hint of cinnamon. Try making them at home with simple ingredients like melted butter and pure vanilla extract. Save this idea for your next family favorite dessert night.

Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Introduction

Imagine a dessert that combines the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the ease and richness of blondies. Cinnamon Roll Blondies are a creative twist on traditional desserts, using everyday ingredients to create a flavorful and visually appealing treat. These blondies capture the essence of cinnamon rolls, with swirls of cinnamon and sugar, a gooey center, and a crispy top, all in a convenient bar form. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor and presentation.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon provides a deep, warm flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent. All the ingredients are easily found in most grocery stores, making this recipe accessible to anyone.
• Ease of preparation: The recipe involves simple mixing and layering, with no need for complex techniques or specialized equipment. This makes it perfect for beginners or those short on time.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the end result is a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. The swirls of cinnamon sugar on top add a decorative touch, making it perfect for serving to guests.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in Cinnamon Roll Blondies include all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and baking powder. For the cinnamon sugar swirl, you’ll need additional granulated sugar and cinnamon. Practical substitutions can be made for some ingredients; for example, you can use salted butter and omit any additional salt called for in the recipe, or substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. However, keep in mind that substitutions may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the blondies.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Step 3: Prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture by combining the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. To create the swirl, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the prepared baking pan, then top with spoonfuls of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Use a knife or spatula to create a swirly design, being careful not to overmix.
4. Step 4: Bake the blondies for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the center is set. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the blondies dry. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars and serving.

Handy Tips

• For a gooier center, bake the blondies for 23-25 minutes. If you prefer them more set, bake for 30-32 minutes.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to dense blondies.
• Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, for unique flavor variations.

Heat Control

When baking the Cinnamon Roll Blondies, it’s crucial to maintain the correct oven temperature and baking time. An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the right temperature. The blondies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. If you’re unsure, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these blondies comes from the cinnamon sugar topping, which adds a delightful textural element. To enhance the crunch, you can broil the blondies for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning. This step is optional but adds a nice caramelized crust to the top.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier removal and cutting, make sure to leave enough parchment paper or foil overhang when lining the baking pan.
• If you find that your blondies are too dense, try adding an extra egg yolk to the batter for increased moisture and richness.
• Cleanup can be made easier by preparing all ingredients and tools before starting and wiping down surfaces as you go.

Storage Tips

• Leftover blondies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When freezing, cut the blondies into bars first, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
• The best containers for storing blondies are those that are airtight and can keep moisture out, such as glass containers with tight-fitting lids or zip-top plastic bags.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Cinnamon Roll Blondies make a wonderful gift, especially when packaged in a decorative and thoughtful way. Consider placing the blondies in a decorative tin or jar, wrapped in parchment paper or cellophane and tied with a ribbon. You can also include a packet of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick on top for an extra-special touch. For a more rustic look, place the blondies in a paper bag, seal with a sticker or stapler, and attach a gift tag with the ingredients and baking instructions.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger to the batter for unique flavor profiles.
• Creative toppings: In addition to the cinnamon sugar swirl, consider topping your blondies with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit before baking.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute some of the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a deeper flavor, or use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your blondies turn out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. If they’re too dry, they might have been overbaked.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a particular ingredient, look for substitutions in the recipe. For example, you can use browned butter instead of regular butter for a nuttier flavor.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your blondies while they bake. If the edges start to darken too quickly, cover the pan with foil to prevent overbrowning. If the center isn’t set after the recommended baking time, bake in additional 2-minute increments until done.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, Cinnamon Roll Blondies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cut them into bars, place in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, and thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave when ready to serve.
• Is it gluten-free? The traditional recipe includes all-purpose flour, making it not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours to create a gluten-free version. Note that gluten-free baking can be more unpredictable, and you may need to adjust the ratio of flours and add xanthan gum to help with texture.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and bake in a 9×13 inch baking pan, adjusting the baking time as needed. Keep in mind that baking time will increase, so check the blondies frequently to avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Blondies are a delightful twist on classic desserts, combining the best of cinnamon rolls and blondies in one easy-to-make treat. With their gooey centers, crunchy tops, and warm, spicy flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices, toppings, and ingredient swaps to make the recipe your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these blondies are a great way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness of Cinnamon Roll Blondies!