Name: Irresistibly Gooey Cinnamon Roll Blondies You Can't Resist
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 38 min
Total time: 83 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option); 1 cup Brown Sugar (can be substituted with coconut sugar); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (use cane sugar as a substitute); 2 large Eggs (room temperature) (flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (use pure vanilla for best results); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (substitute with gluten-free blend for gluten-free option); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (can be omitted); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (baking soda can be used with acid); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (ensure not to omit); 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (regular brown sugar can be substituted); 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (no substitutes recommended); 1 cup Confectioners' Sugar (blend granulated sugar for alternative); 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream or Milk of Choice (use non-dairy milk for vegan option); a pinch Salt

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the cozy smells wafting from the kitchen to truly capture the essence of fall. Recently, after a long day of errands, I found myself craving something sweet yet comforting. That's when I decided to whip up a batch of Cinnamon Roll Blondies—an ingenious blend of the rich, buttery goodness of blondies paired with the warm, inviting flavors of cinnamon rolls.

What makes this recipe especially enticing is how effortlessly it comes together with just a few pantry staples—all without the fuss of a mixer! Each bite of these soft, chewy treats, crowned with a luscious vanilla cream glaze, is like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you experience this delightful twist on a classic, you’ll want to make these all year round!

Why You'll Love Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Irresistible flavor combination: with rich blondie texture and sweet cinnamon swirls, you get the best of both worlds in every bite.

Easy to bake: Just mix, swirl, and bake—no mixer needed, making it perfect for all skill levels.

Perfect for fall: The warm spices in this recipe evoke cozy autumn vibes, making it a seasonal favorite.

Versatile treats: Enjoy them warm with ice cream or pack them for a fun lunchbox dessert.

Crowd pleaser: These blondies are sure to impress family and friends at any gathering, satisfying even the pickiest of eaters!

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Ingredients

For the Blondies

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar – Provides deep sweetness and contributes to a chewy texture; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a less processed alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Balances the flavor profile with additional sweetness; use cane sugar as a substitute.
Eggs (room temperature) – Provides structure and stability to the blondies; flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; use pure vanilla for best results.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure of the blondies; for a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Cornstarch – Helps achieve a chewy texture; can be omitted but may change texture slightly.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent that helps the blondies rise; there's no direct substitute, but baking soda could be used with a bit of added acid.
Salt – Enhances flavors; ensure not to omit for optimal taste.

For the Cinnamon Swirl

Light Brown Sugar – Similar purpose to regular brown sugar; adds to the cinnamon flavor. Regular brown sugar can be substituted.
Cinnamon – Key flavor component producing the cinnamon roll essence; no substitutes recommended.

For the Glaze

Confectioners' Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze; make a powdered sugar alternative by blending granulated sugar if needed.
Heavy Cream or Milk of Choice – Used to achieve the desired glaze consistency; use non-dairy milk for a vegan option.
Pinch of Salt – Enhances flavor in the glaze.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it with butter. This ensures easy removal later!
Whisk together the melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth and well combined, creating a rich base for your blondies.
Add the room temperature eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, whisking until everything is beautifully blended for a deliciously moist texture.
Combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually whisk this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—no overmixing!
Prepare the cinnamon swirl layer by mixing melted butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until it forms a delightful paste, revealing that inviting cinnamon aroma.
Spread the blondie batter evenly in the prepared pan, then drizzle the cinnamon mixture over it. Use a knife to swirl the two together gently, creating lovely patterns.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-38 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean for perfectly baked blondies!
Cool completely in the pan before making the glaze. Mix confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and your choice of heavy cream or milk until you achieve a drizzle-worthy consistency.

Optional: Drizzle extra glaze on top for added sweetness before cutting into squares.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter, leading to a creamier consistency.
Don't Overmix: Mix the blondie batter until just combined to maintain that wonderfully chewy texture. Overmixing can lead to dry blondies.
Cool Before Glaze: Let the blondies cool completely before drizzling with glaze to prevent it from melting away. This keeps the beautiful finish intact.
Adjust Glaze Thickness: If your glaze is too thick, microwave it for a few seconds to soften. Aim for a drizzle that elegantly coats each blondie.
Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to enjoy them at their best!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Blondies?

Indulging in these soft treats opens the door to a world of delightful pairings that can elevate your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness melts beautifully on the warm blondies, creating an irresistible contrast of temperatures.
Coffee or Espresso: Pairing the sweet, buttery blondies with a robust cup of coffee balances the flavors and enhances your tasting experience.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a pop of color and a tartness that complements the sweetness of the blondies perfectly.
Cream Cheese Glaze: Switch up the vanilla glaze for a tangy cream cheese version for an unforgettable twist that amplifies flavor complexity.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in this cozy drink echo the cinnamon flavor, harmonizing beautifully as an afternoon treat.
Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top lend a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the blondie's chewy texture.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling the blondies with rich caramel adds an extra layer of decadence that is simply divine.
Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop of whipped cream introduces airiness and lightens the overall sweetness, making every bite indulgently delightful.
Homemade Apple Compote: The warmth of spiced apples brings a nostalgic touch that enhances the fall vibes of these delicious blondies.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Roll Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time and enjoy delicious treats! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients, then refrigerating the combined batter to lock in the freshness. Additionally, you can mix the cinnamon swirl and store it in an airtight container for the same period. When you're ready to bake, just pour the batter into the pan, drizzle the cinnamon mixture, swirl it, and bake as instructed. This make-ahead approach ensures your blondies are just as delightful when baked fresh, letting you savor each bite without the last-minute rush!

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Variations

Get ready to elevate your baking experience by exploring these delightful twists on your Cinnamon Roll Blondies!

Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra crunch that beautifully complements the softness of the blondies. The rich, buttery flavor of the nuts creates an enticing contrast with the chewy texture!
Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap out the vanilla glaze for a cream cheese glaze by mixing softened cream cheese with a little milk and powdered sugar. This decadent substitution delivers a tangy richness that will take these blondies to the next level.
Apple Cinnamon Bliss: Diced apples can be folded into the cinnamon layer for a fruity surprise. The juicy apples add moisture and a lovely burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon swirls.
Maple Syrup Twist: Replace the granulated sugar in the blondie base with an equal amount of maple syrup for a warm, earthy sweetness. Not only does this add a delightful flavor, but it also hints at fall with every bite.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger into the cinnamon mixture for a warming spice boost. This subtle change will bring an exciting level of depth to the flavor profile, especially during the cooler months.
Coconut Flakes: Mix in ½ cup of sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut to the batter. This addition creates a chewy texture and a tropical twist that will transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the cooled blondies for an indulgent touch. This rich chocolate pairing perfectly balances with the cinnamon flavors for a truly decadent dessert.
S’mores Style: Fold in mini marshmallows and chocolate chips into the batter before baking for a s’mores-inspired twist. The gooey marshmallows and melty chocolate create a fun texture that will delight both kids and adults alike!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate your blondies. They’ll stay fresh for about a week and become even chewier as they sit!

Freezer: Wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months for a sweet treat anytime.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour should I use for the Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best results, as it provides the ideal structure. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure it's formulated for baking to achieve a similar texture.

How should I store my Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
To keep your blondies fresh, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them, where they can last for about a week. Just remember, they’ll get delightfully chewier over time!

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds—you’ll love having a sweet treat whenever you crave it!

What do I do if my blondies come out dry?
If you find your blondies are not as moist as you'd like, ensure you don't overmix your batter—mixing until just combined is key! Additionally, check that you’re using room temperature ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, which help create a creamy consistency. If your blondies are overbaked, keep a close eye on them while baking; they usually take about 35-38 minutes.

Can I use alternatives for eggs in the recipe?
Yes! If you're looking for a vegan option, flax eggs are a great substitute. To make one flax egg, combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, stir it well, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens. This will provide a similar binding effect in your blondies!