I enjoy making cinnamon roll blondies when I want the comforting flavor of cinnamon rolls in an easy, sliceable dessert. These blondies are soft, buttery, and filled with a swirl of cinnamon sugar that creates a warm and cozy flavor in every bite. With a simple glaze drizzled on top, they capture the sweetness of classic cinnamon rolls without the need for yeast or long rising times.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it delivers the nostalgic flavor of cinnamon rolls in a quick and simple form. The blondie base stays soft and chewy while the cinnamon swirl adds a sweet and aromatic layer throughout the bars.
I also appreciate how easy they are to prepare. Instead of rolling dough and waiting for it to rise, I can mix the batter, add the cinnamon swirl, and bake everything in one pan. The result is a dessert that feels indulgent, comforting, and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flour
baking powder
salt
unsalted butter, melted
brown sugar
granulated sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
ground cinnamon
extra brown sugar (for cinnamon swirl)
powdered sugar
milk or cream (for glaze)
Directions
I begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, I mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Then I add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is well combined.
Next, I gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a thick blondie batter forms.
In a small bowl, I combine brown sugar and ground cinnamon to create the cinnamon swirl mixture.
I spread most of the blondie batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter, and then add the remaining batter on top.
Using a knife or skewer, I gently swirl the batter to create a marbled cinnamon pattern.
I bake the blondies for about 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is lightly golden.
While the blondies cool, I prepare a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or cream until smooth. Once the blondies have cooled slightly, I drizzle the glaze over the top.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 blondies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with cinnamon.
Another variation I enjoy is mixing cream cheese into the glaze for a richer topping that resembles classic cinnamon roll frosting.
When I want a deeper flavor, I add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon swirl mixture.
storage/reheating
I store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, I refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. When reheating, I warm a piece briefly in the microwave so the blondie becomes soft and the glaze slightly melts.
FAQs
What makes blondies different from brownies?
Blondies use brown sugar and vanilla instead of cocoa or chocolate as the main flavor, giving them a caramel-like sweetness.
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
Yes, I often bake them a day in advance. They stay soft and flavorful when stored properly.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
I look for lightly golden edges and a center that is set but still slightly soft.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, I can substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour, though the texture may become slightly denser.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, I can double the ingredients and bake the blondies in a larger pan if I want to make a bigger batch.
Conclusion
I enjoy making cinnamon roll blondies because they bring together the warm flavors of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of a blondie dessert. The soft texture, cinnamon swirl, and sweet glaze create a comforting treat that’s easy to bake and perfect for sharing. It’s a recipe I like to make whenever I want a cozy dessert without complicated steps.
