If you’re anything like me, you know that the magical comfort of a cinnamon roll can brighten even the dreariest mornings or cozy evenings. Now, imagine that same irresistible flavor packed into a chewy, buttery square of pure joy—that’s exactly what the Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe delivers. This dessert captures the warmth and spice of cinnamon rolls, combined with the rich, tender crumb of blondies, all topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts in your mouth. Whether you need a show-stopping treat for a gathering or a delightful pick-me-up, these blondies promise to be your new go-to dessert obsession.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color. From the creamy butter to the fragrant cinnamon, every component works harmoniously to bring this Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe to life.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly: Adds richness and a tender crumb without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides a deep caramel note and keeps the blondies moist and soft.
- 1 large egg + 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature: Eggs bind the batter and add creaminess, with the yolk ensuring extra moisture.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, fragrant aroma.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The backbone of the batter, giving structure while keeping it tender.
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder: Just enough to give a subtle lift without creating too much rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the complexity of the cinnamon.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: The star spice, infusing every bite with its cozy, sweet heat.
- ¼ cup white sugar: Used to make the cinnamon sugar swirl—adds a crisp sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese: For the decadent glaze that adds tangy richness.
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream: Makes the cream cheese frosting silky smooth and easy to drizzle.
- ¾ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese glaze perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the glaze.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the glaze and enhances all the sweetness.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper; this will make removing the blondies a breeze and help keep their perfect edges intact.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until smooth and silky. Then add the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing well. This blend provides a rich, sweet base that will give life to your blondies.
Step 3: Combine the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix ensures even leavening and a balanced flavor. Gradually fold this into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are fine as overworking can toughen the blondies.
Step 4: Create the cinnamon swirl
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Mix white sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl to make the cinnamon sugar. Then drop generous spoonfuls over the batter and use a butter knife to swirl the mixture creating eye-catching cinnamon roll patterns throughout. This step turns your blondies into a cinnamon lover’s dream.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until the edges are golden and set but the middle still looks slightly doughy. Resist the urge to overbake as these blondies will continue to set as they cool; the result is a tender, chewy center with crisp edges.
Step 6: Make the cream cheese icing
While the blondies cool, gently melt the cream cheese with heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt over medium-low heat. Whisk constantly until smooth and glossy, then remove from heat and allow the glaze to cool until it’s perfect for drizzling.
Step 7: Glaze and serve
Once the blondies are completely cool, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the top. Cut your Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe into 9 squares, serve, and prepare to delight in every bite.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon on top of the glaze or add chopped toasted pecans for crunch. A few fresh berries on the side can brighten the flavors and add color.
Side Dishes
Serve these blondies alongside a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the cinnamon notes. A cold glass of milk or a dollop of whipped cream also pairs beautifully to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the blondies in a glass trifle with whipped cream and cinnamon-spiced apples for a show-stopping dessert. You can also cut smaller bite-sized pieces and skewer them with marshmallows and drizzle extra glaze for fun dessert kabobs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their chewy texture and keeps the glaze fresh and smooth.
Freezing
These blondies freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
Warm leftover blondies in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to enjoy that freshly baked softness. If you prefer a slightly crisp edge, reheat them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe slightly to prevent the blondies from becoming overly salty.
What’s the best way to achieve the perfect swirl?
Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon sugar mixture in a few random spots and then gently swirl with a butter knife in a figure-eight motion to create beautiful, natural patterns without overmixing.
Can I substitute the cream cheese glaze?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, a simple vanilla glaze or even a dusting of powdered sugar works, but the cream cheese glaze truly adds that signature tangy sweetness to this Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe.
Why do the blondies seem doughy in the center?
The center will look slightly underbaked when you first take them out, but they continue to cook as they cool—this is key for that soft, fudgy texture everyone loves.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of equal measure, making sure it contains xanthan gum for structure; your blondies will be just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly special about this Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe—a perfect blend of cinnamon-spiced sweetness, buttery chewy texture, and creamy glaze that feels like a warm hug from your oven. It’s the kind of dessert you’ll want to make again and again, whether for gatherings, gifts, or simply treating yourself. Go ahead, give it a try, and share the love through every blissful bite!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in these rich and gooey Cinnamon Roll Blondies, featuring a tender blondie base swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. Perfect for a cozy dessert or an afternoon treat, these blondies combine the best flavors of cinnamon rolls into easy-to-make bars.
Ingredients
Blondie Batter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup white sugar
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until smooth. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, ensuring there are no clumps of flour, but be careful not to overmix.
- Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. In a small bowl, combine the white sugar and cinnamon to make the cinnamon sugar. Drop large spoonfuls of this cinnamon sugar mixture on top of the batter. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the Blondies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. The blondies should be golden brown and set around the edges and puffed up. The center will still be slightly doughy but will set as it cools.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze: While the blondies cool, make the glaze by combining the cream cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk constantly until fully melted and smooth, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Finish and Serve: Once the blondies have cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the top. Cut into 9 squares and serve. Enjoy the gooey, cinnamon-swirled blondies!
Notes
- Ensure the butter is melted and slightly cooled before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the blondies tender.
- The center of the blondies may appear doughy when done baking, this is expected and will firm up as they cool.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
- You can store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
