Name: Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly); 1 cup light brown sugar (packed); 1 large egg (at room temperature); 1 large egg yolk (at room temperature); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1/4 cup white sugar; 1 tablespoon cream cheese; 1 tablespoon heavy cream; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; pinch salt

Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Blondies

When you think of dessert, cinnamon roll blondies effortlessly merge the comforting flavors of your favorite breakfast treat with the chewy goodness of blondies. These delightful squares are not only rich and indulgent but also surprisingly easy to make, making them the perfect treat for anyone seeking a touch of homemade goodness.

The beauty of cinnamon roll blondies lies in their versatility. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering with friends or simply indulging in a personal sweet escape, these treats deliver on all fronts. With a deliciously buttery base swirled with a cinnamon-sugar mix, they capture the essence of classic cinnamon rolls without the fuss of rolling dough.

Plus, they're topped with a luscious cream cheese icing that takes them to a whole new level. If you’re keen to impress at your next potluck or just craving something special, these blondies will steal the show. Imagine the delight as you serve up these soft, gooey squares, and watch as eyes light up with each mouthful. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this deliciously sweet journey!

For an even deeper dive into baking tips, check out resources like King Arthur Baking.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

When it comes to whipping up a batch of cinnamon roll blondies, having the right ingredients is key to making them as delicious and gooey as possible. Here's what you'll need for this mouthwatering treat.

For the Blondies

½ cup unsalted butter: Melted and cooled slightly, this adds that rich flavor and moist texture.
1 cup packed light brown sugar: This sweet ingredient caramelizes during baking, giving your blondies a deep, delicious taste.
1 large egg + 1 large egg yolk: Make sure they're at room temperature for the best result!
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: For that lovely aromatic flavor.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Your base for the blondie batter.
¼ teaspoon baking powder: This helps the blondies rise a little, making them soft and chewy.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances out the sweetness beautifully.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

1 tablespoon cinnamon: The star of the show, bringing that warming spice.
¼ cup white sugar: Sweetens it up and creates that irresistible cinnamon swirl.

For the Icing

1 tablespoon cream cheese: Adds a creamy tang to the frosting.
1 tablespoon heavy cream: Gives the icing that perfect drizzle consistency.
¾ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing for a gorgeous topping.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
Pinch of salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness of the icing.

With these ingredients at hand, you're well on your way to creating cinnamon roll blondies that will impress your friends and family! If you're curious about the baking tools you might need, check out this mixing bowl guide for some excellent recommendations.

Step-by-step Preparation for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Creating the ultimate cinnamon roll blondies is not just a baking process; it’s an experience filled with warm aromas and sweet anticipation. Let’s walk through each step together to ensure that your blondies turn out deliciously every time!

Gather all your ingredients

Begin by assembling all the ingredients needed for your blondies. This not only saves time but also ensures you don't miss anything essential while you're in the groove. Here’s what you’ll need for the blondie base:

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

For the cinnamon swirl, gather these:

1 tablespoon cinnamon
¼ cup white sugar

Finally, for a luscious cream cheese icing, you’ll need:

1 tablespoon cream cheese
1 tablespoon heavy cream
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Double-check that everything is fresh and ready!

Mix the blondie base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled melted butter with the brown sugar and whisk until it’s nice and smooth. Now add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract—mixing them until well incorporated. Next, in a separate bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, and flour. Gently fold this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, being careful not to over mix. Aim for a smooth batter without any flour clumps. This will help your cinnamon roll blondies have that perfect texture.

Create the cinnamon swirl

Now, the fun part! In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar to create your cinnamon swirl. Pour the blondie batter into your prepared pan, then drop large spoonfuls of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon and sugar into the batter, creating that dreamy swirl effect that will melt in your mouth.

Bake the blondies to golden perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the blondies for about 30 to 40 minutes. You'll know they are done when the edges are golden brown, and the middle still looks a bit doughy—it will finish setting as it cools. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect balance between gooey and baked!

Make the cream cheese icing

While your blondies cool, it's time to whip up the cream cheese icing. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and melted together. Let this cool slightly so it’s just right for drizzling over your blondies.

Drizzle and slice for serving

Once your blondies have cooled completely, take that delicious cream cheese icing and drizzle it generously over the top. Let it set for a moment, then slice them into squares. Perfect for sharing (or not)! Each bite of these cinnamon roll blondies is sure to be a heavenly treat that you’ll want to enjoy regularly.

Now that you know how to prepare cinnamon roll blondies step-by-step, get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful treat!

Variations on Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Add-Ins for a Twist

Elevate your cinnamon roll blondies with delightful add-ins! Consider tossing in:

Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate chips for a rich, sweet surprise.
Dried fruit (think cranberries or raisins) for a chewy contrast.
A pinch of espresso powder to enhance the flavors.

These additions create a unique take on the classic and keep things interesting!

Flavor Alternatives for the Icing

If you're ready to change up the traditional frosting, think about these variations:

Maple Icing: Replace vanilla extract with maple syrup for a cozy, earthy flavor.
Cocoa Icing: Add cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist that pairs well with the cinnamon.
Lemon Icing: Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, zesty contrast.

Each of these flavor alternatives will make your cinnamon roll blondies a conversation starter at your next gathering!

Baking Notes for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Baking cinnamon roll blondies is not just about following a recipe—it's about embracing the process! Here are some essential notes to ensure your blondies are a hit.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps them blend smoothly with the melted butter, creating a richer batter.
Swirling the Cinnamon Sugar: When you sprinkle the cinnamon sugar on top, don't be shy! Drop large spoonfuls and use a knife to create generous swirls—this adds beautiful flavor pockets.
Don’t Overbake: The blondies will look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out. They will continue to firm up as they cool, leading to a chewy texture.

For more tips on blondies, check out King Arthur Baking for expert advice. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Cinnamon roll blondies are deliciously addictive on their own, but with a few creative serving suggestions, you can elevate them into a delightful experience. Here are some ideas:

Serve Warm: Slightly warm the blondies for that gooey texture, akin to freshly baked cinnamon rolls. A perfect treat for chilly evenings!
Pair with Coffee: Enhance your sweet moments by enjoying your blondies alongside a cup of your favorite coffee or creamy latte. The warm flavors complement each other beautifully.
Add Ice Cream: Transform your cinnamon roll blondies into an indulgent dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on top.
Garnish with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that balances the richness of the blondies.

Experiment with these options to make each bite of your cinnamon roll blondies memorable! For more ideas on dessert pairings, check out this blog on food pairings.

Tips for Making Perfect Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Achieving the ultimate cinnamon roll blondies requires a few key approaches to ensure every bite is as delicious as possible. Here are some helpful tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and butter to warm up to room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter that combines more easily.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. This keeps your blondies from becoming tough.
Swirl with Care: For the cinnamon sugar, use a knife to gently swirl but don’t overdo it. You want beautiful swirls without fully blending the layers.
Check for Doneness: Blondies will look slightly underbaked in the middle; they’ll set as they cool, creating a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with your icing.

With these tips, your cinnamon roll blondies are sure to impress!

Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Preparation Time

Get ready in just 15 minutes! This is where the fun begins. Mixing together the ingredients for your cinnamon roll blondies is simple, allowing you to dive right into creating a delicious treat.

Baking Time

Now for the best part—30-40 minutes in the oven! Your blondies will puff up beautifully and turn a lovely golden brown. The enticing aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste.

Cooling Time

Patience is key here; allow the cinnamon roll blondies to cool for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure they set nicely, making slicing easier and enhancing their gooey texture.

Enjoying the process makes the bites taste even better!

Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Calories

A single serving of these delicious cinnamon roll blondies contains approximately 250 calories. It's a delightful treat that balances indulgence and flavor without piling on the guilt.

Protein

You can expect around 2 grams of protein per blondie, mainly from the eggs and butter used in the recipe. While they’re not a primary source of protein, they can still make your snack a bit more substantial.

Sugar

Each blondie packs about 18 grams of sugar, thanks to the brown sugar in the batter and cinnamon sugar topping. This sweetness perfectly complements the warm cinnamon flavor, but keep that in mind if you're watching your sugar intake!

Incorporating these blondies into your dessert repertoire can be both satisfying and manageable when enjoyed in moderation. Curious to try your hand at baking? You'll surely love how these treats fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma!

FAQs about Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! If you're looking to make gluten-free cinnamon roll blondies, you can replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Many brands, like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur, work wonderfully in baking. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

How do I store leftover blondies?

To keep your cinnamon roll blondies fresh, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them: wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They'll stay good for about 3 months!

What if I can’t find cream cheese?

No worries! If you can't find cream cheese, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor or use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of vanilla extract. While it’ll change the taste slightly, your cinnamon roll blondies will still be delicious!

For more tips on baking and ingredient substitutions, check out resources like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit.

Conclusion on Cinnamon Roll Blondies

In conclusion, cinnamon roll blondies are the perfect blend of flavors, combining rich, buttery blondies with a delightful swirl of cinnamon sugar. They’re easy to make and ideal for sharing with friends or indulging after a long day. Don't hesitate—give this sweet treat a try today!