Name: Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Your New Favorite Dessert Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Can substitute with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free version.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Can replace with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.); 2 large Eggs (Use flax eggs as a vegan substitute.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (No direct substitute, but pure almond extract offers a unique twist.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free 1:1 flour mix for a gluten-free option.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Leave out if using salted butter.); 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (Can swap with nutmeg for a different spice profile.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Can substitute with vegan cream cheese if needed.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Granulated sugar blended until fine can work in a pinch.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Use non-dairy milk as an alternative.)

There’s something magical about the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to cherished family gatherings. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Cinnamon Roll Blondies—a delightful dessert that combines the comforting essence of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a bar treat. These blondies are incredibly quick to prepare and make for a crowd-pleasing option at any gathering, whether it’s a cozy coffee date or a festive potluck. With their soft and chewy texture, topped off with a luscious cream cheese icing, these blondies check all the boxes for a sweet indulgence. Plus, they can easily be made gluten-free or adapted with your favorite mix-ins, so everyone can join in the deliciousness! Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get baking!

Why Are These Blondies So Irresistible?

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, these Cinnamon Roll Blondies come together in no time—perfect for those busy evenings!
Versatile Options: Customize them with nuts or fruit; you can even try a gluten-free version to cater to different dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleasing: These rich, chewy treats are sure to delight friends and family at any gathering, just like your favorite Cinnamon Roll Sugar cookies.
Flavor Explosion: The warm blend of cinnamon and the creaminess of the icing strike a perfect balance, making each bite a delightful experience.
Indulgent Treat: These blondies are the ideal dessert for anyone looking to enjoy a little slice of homemade happiness.

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Ingredients

For the Blondies
• Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a deep caramel flavor; can replace with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Eggs – Acts as a binder for the blondies, contributing to the structure; use flax eggs as a vegan substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; no direct substitute, but pure almond extract offers a unique twist.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free 1:1 flour mix for a gluten-free option.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; you can leave it out if using salted butter.
• Cinnamon – The key flavor component for the swirl; can swap with nutmeg for a different spice profile.

For the Cream Cheese Icing
• Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and tang for the icing; substitute with vegan cream cheese if needed.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetening agent for icing; granulated sugar blended until fine can work in a pinch.
• Milk – Thins the icing for smooth drizzling; use non-dairy milk as an alternative.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure your Cinnamon Roll Blondies release easily after baking, making for a beautiful presentation and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar, stirring until smooth and well mixed. Next, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate everything. The batter should become creamy and slightly thick—this is the base of your delicious blondies.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Carefully fold the all-purpose flour and salt into your butter-sugar mixture using a spatula. Mix just until combined, ensuring not to overmix as this could lead to dense blondies. You’re looking for a thick, cookie-like batter now, with no visible flour remaining.

Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a separate bowl, prepare the cinnamon swirl by combining brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir the mixture until it forms a smooth paste. This delightful concoction adds a beautiful flavor and texture to your Cinnamon Roll Blondies, creating that signature swirl everyone loves.

Step 5: Assemble the Blondies
Spread your blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out with a spatula. Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cinnamon mixture over the batter. With a butter knife, swirl the cinnamon mixture gently into the blondie batter to create a marbled effect without fully mixing it in.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know the blondies are ready when the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Keep an eye on them; you want a moist but set middle for that perfect consistency.

Step 7: Cool and Ice
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the dish on a wire rack. Cooling is crucial; this helps develop the flavors and makes them easier to slice. After cooling, you’re ready to frost your Cinnamon Roll Blondies.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla, mixing until your icing reaches a drizzleable consistency. This creamy icing is the perfect finishing touch for your cinnamon-infused blondies.

Step 9: Drizzle and Serve
Once your blondies are fully cooled, drizzle the cream cheese icing over the top. Cut them into squares or bars and serve—they’ll be the star of any dessert table! Feel free to enjoy them warm or chilled, and watch everyone delight in these irresistible Cinnamon Roll Blondies.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough blondies. Gently fold the dry ingredients until just combined for a tender result.
Check Doneness: Bake until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. For a gooey center, bake towards the lower end of the time range.
Cooling Time: Let the blondies cool completely before icing. This prevents the cream cheese icing from melting and helps maintain a beautiful presentation.
Storage Secrets: Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer enjoyment.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to add nuts or experiment with ingredients like pumpkin puree or apples for a seasonal twist to these 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. Simply mix all the ingredients and store the unbaked batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even quicker meal prep, you can bake the blondies ahead of time and let them cool completely before refrigerating. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just whip up the cream cheese icing, drizzle it over the blondies, and enjoy the same delicious results without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Blondies?

Indulge your senses by pairing these buttery blondies with complementary flavors and textures that elevate your dessert experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm blondies, creating the perfect sweet bite.
Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness, balancing the rich sweetness of the blondies.
Hot Coffee: A nice cup of coffee offers a wonderful contrast to the sweet, cinnamon-swirled bars, enhancing the flavors in each bite.
Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream brings an airy texture that pairs delightfully with the dense blondies and icing.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of chocolate adds a decadent twist, enriching the sinfully sweet profile of the blondies.
Chopped Nuts: Add texture and a nutty flavor by sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top, elevating each mouthful.
Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle enhances the indulgence, making these blondies even more addictive, especially for caramel lovers.
Tea: A soothing cup of herbal or chai tea wonderfully complements the cinnamon notes in the blondies, making it a cozy pairing.

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 to maintain their soft, chewy texture.

Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re covered to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer-term storage, freeze the blondies in portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer-safe bag, for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds until just heated. This brings back that fresh-baked feel!

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these Cinnamon Roll Blondies your own; the possibilities are endless!

Dairy-Free: Replace butter with melted coconut oil and use vegan cream cheese in the icing for a delicious dairy-free version.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 flour mix to enjoy these blondies without gluten, ensuring everyone at your gathering can indulge.
Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft blondies.
Fruity Addition: Incorporate diced apples or mashed bananas into the batter for a sweet, fruity twist that keeps things fresh.
Spiced Twist: Substitute cinnamon with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for an aromatic flavor profile that adds a seasonal flair to your blondies.
Extra Sweetness: Add chocolate chips or butterscotch chips to the batter for an indulgent treat that brings a delightful sweetness to every bite.
Cinnamon Roll Variation: To mimic cinnamon rolls even more, swirl in extra cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for that classic, gooey effect.
Icing Upgrade: Experiment with flavored extracts in your icing—try maple or almond for an exciting new layer of flavor, perfect for impressing guests.

Don’t forget, these blondies pair deliciously with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or are delightful on their own, just like my favorite Hawaiian Roll French toast for a breakfast twist!

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness of ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, use ingredients at their peak freshness. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, which helps create a creamy batter. Eggs should be at room temperature for better mixing. As for cinnamon, opt for a fresh jar—old spice can lose its potency, affecting the flavor of your blondies!

How should I store leftover Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Very simply! Keep your Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days; just remember to cover them well to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do this, wrap individual blondie pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, or microwave a piece for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat!

What should I do if my blondies came out too dry?
No worries! If your blondies are dry, it’s likely they were overbaked. Next time, check for doneness at the lower end of the time range—25 minutes should be your starting point. For a softer blondie, remove them from the oven when a toothpick comes out with few moist crumbs rather than fully clean. Don’t forget to cool them entirely before icing; this ensures they maintain that perfect moist texture!

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To cater to gluten-free diets, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like the baking powder and vanilla extract, are also gluten-free. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite flavors while keeping it gluten-free!

Is there a way to modify these blondies for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! You can easily adapt these Cinnamon Roll Blondies to be dairy-free by substituting the butter with melted coconut oil and using vegan cream cheese for the icing. If you need them to be egg-free, flax eggs (mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) work wonderfully as a binder without compromising the texture!