Name: Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Chewy Bliss with Creamy Icing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter, melted (adds richness and moisture); 1.5 cups Brown Sugar (provides sweetness and depth of flavor); 2 large Eggs (essential for binding); 2 tsp Vanilla Extract (enhances flavor); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (ensures a chewy texture); 0.5 tsp Salt (balances sweetness); 1 tbsp Cinnamon (adds warmth and spice); 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened (creates a creamy icing); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (sweetens and thickens icing); 1-2 tbsp Milk (adjusts icing consistency)

The aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me to cherished childhood memories. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with these delightful Chewy Cinnamon Roll Blondies. This recipe brilliantly combines all the comforting elements of traditional cinnamon rolls into a simple bar treat. Perfect for novice bakers, these blondies are not only easy to whip up but are also a fantastic option for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in. With a rich buttery texture and a warm cinnamon sugar swirl, these bars finish with a creamy cream cheese icing that complements their sweetness beautifully. Trust me; once you share these with family and friends, they’ll be begging for the recipe! Are you ready to treat yourself to this delectable dessert?

What makes Cinnamon Roll Blondies so special?

Unforgettable Flavors: The rich, buttery blondies are swirled with aromatic cinnamon sugar, creating a taste sensation reminiscent of your favorite cinnamon rolls.

Easy to Make: Perfect for beginners, this recipe is straightforward and requires no complex baking techniques.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as is, or get creative! Add nuts or fruits to tailor your blondies to your taste.

Perfect for Sharing: They’re an ideal dessert for gatherings—everyone will rave about the chewy texture and creamy icing!

Quick Preparation: In about 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious blondies ready to impress your guests. For more quick and delightful recipes, check out my Sushi Stacks Flavorful ideas!

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Ingredients

For the Blondie Batter

Butter – 1 cup, melted; adds richness and moisture to enhance the blondies.
Brown Sugar – 1 ½ cups + ½ cup for swirling; provides sweetness and a depth of flavor.
Eggs – 2 large; essential for binding and structure; see variations for egg replacements.
Vanilla Extract – 2 tsp + ½ tsp for icing; enhances the overall flavor profile.
All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups; the backbone of the recipe, ensuring a chewy texture; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Salt – ½ tsp; balances the sweetness perfectly.
Cinnamon – 1 tbsp; sprinkle in warmth and spice; adjust to your taste.

For the Cream Cheese Icing

Cream Cheese – 4 oz, softened; creates a creamy icing that complements the blondies beautifully.
Powdered Sugar – 1 cup; sweetens and thickens the icing for the perfect texture.
Milk – 1-2 tbsp; adjust the consistency of your icing to your preference.

These Cinnamon Roll Blondies bring together comforting flavors and textures that will undoubtedly become a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it generously with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure that your Cinnamon Roll Blondies lift out easily once baked, giving you beautiful, intact bars to enjoy.

Step 2: Prepare the Blondie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of melted butter with 1 ½ cups of brown sugar. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Next, incorporate 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until everything is thoroughly blended. Gently fold in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt, taking care not to overmix, which helps maintain the blondies’ tender texture.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a separate small bowl, create the delightful cinnamon swirl by mixing the remaining ½ cup of brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until you achieve a crumbly, sand-like texture. This aromatic swirl will add that signature cinnamon roll flavor to your blondies, so set it aside for later use.

Step 4: Assemble the Blondies
Spread the blondie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out with a spatula. Now, take the cinnamon mixture and dollop it over the top of the blondie batter in random spoonfuls. Using a butter knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect that hints at the delicious flavors to come.

Step 5: Bake
Place the assembled Cinnamon Roll Blondies in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overbaking—your perfect blondies will be soft and chewy!

Step 6: Make the Icing
While the blondies are cooling, prepare the luscious cream cheese icing. In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until combined and creamy, adjusting the milk to reach your desired consistency for drizzling.

Step 7: Ice the Blondies
Once the Cinnamon Roll Blondies have cooled completely, drizzle the cream cheese icing generously over the top. Allow it to set for a few moments, letting the icing coat the blondies delightfully. Now you’re all set to cut the blondies into squares and share the warm, comforting flavors of this delicious treat with family and friends!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Avoid Overmixing: Keep it gentle when folding in the flour and salt. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies instead of the desired soft, chewy texture.
Watch the Bake Time: For gooey and moist blondies, aim for the lower end of the baking time. They should look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out.
Gluten-Free Option: When using gluten-free flour, ensure it has binding properties like xanthan gum to mimic the texture of traditional flour in your Cinnamon Roll Blondies.
Cool Before Icing: Allow the blondies to cool completely before adding the cream cheese icing. This prevents the icing from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
Storage Tips: Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for the best taste and texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Cinnamon Roll Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the blondie batter and the cinnamon swirl mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix and refrigerate the blondie batter and cinnamon swirl separately, ensuring they are stored in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the assembly instructions and pop them in the oven straight from the refrigerator. The blondies will turn out just as delicious, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights. For best results, wait to add the cream cheese icing until just before serving to keep its creamy texture intact. This way, you can enjoy a homemade dessert with minimal fuss whenever the craving strikes!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Blondies?

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a batch of warm, cinnamon-swirled sweetness alongside delightful complementary dishes and drinks.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, cold vanilla ice cream melting over warm blondies creates a heavenly contrast of temperatures.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like berries and citrus add a refreshing element that balances the rich flavors of the blondies.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream enhances the creamy icing, creating a playful texture that makes each bite more indulgent.
Coffee or Latte: The robust flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the blondies while delivering that perfect cozy vibe for dessert time.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the blondies brings a decadent twist that sweet lovers won’t want to miss! Try a combination of chocolate and caramel for a luxurious experience.
Warm Spiced Chai: The aromatic spices in chai add another layer of warmth, echoing the cinnamon notes in your blondies for a harmonious pairing.
Cream Cheese Frosting Dipped Apples: For a creative twist, slice some apples and serve them with the leftover cream cheese frosting for a fun appetizer alongside the blondies.

These pairing ideas not only enhance your dessert experience but also invite moments of joy and connection at your table.

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Variations

Feel free to make these Cinnamon Roll Blondies your own by trying out these delicious variations!

Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful texture contrast. The nuts bring an unexpected richness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these blondies accessible for those avoiding gluten. Just ensure the mix has binding properties for the best texture.
Apple-Filled Delight: Fold in 1 cup of diced apples for a fruity twist. The juicy bites will add a refreshing contrast to the sweet, spiced blondies.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce on top instead of icing for an indulgent treat. This enhances the flavor profile, creating a sweet and gooey experience.
Chocolate Chip Bliss: Toss in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips to add a layer of chocolatey goodness. This will give your blondies an extra sweet surprise in every bite.
Greek Yogurt Icing: For a lighter icing alternative, swap the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. It’ll provide the same tanginess with fewer calories, making it a guilt-free option!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon swirl for an unexpected heat. This unique twist combines sweet and spicy flavors, creating an exciting dessert.
Coconut Flake Twist: Stir in ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut into the batter for added texture and tropical flair. The fragrant coconut brings a unique essence to the classic cinnamon roll experience.

For even more culinary inspiration, try these fun ideas with my Sushi Stacks Flavorful or adventure with a savory twist using these Pepperoni Pizza Roll options!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Room Temperature: Keep the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the blondies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: To store for even longer, freeze the blondies in a tightly sealed container, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating: If you prefer warm blondies, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds when ready to indulge.

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe FAQs

What kind of butter should I use for the blondies?
I recommend using unsalted butter to control the saltiness of your blondies. Melt it until it’s fully liquid before mixing; this adds richness and moisture to your blondie batter!

How do I know when my blondies are done baking?
Keep an eye on them! You’ll want to take them out when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean—this usually takes about 25-30 minutes. They may look slightly underbaked in the middle, which is perfect for keeping them chewy.

How should I store any leftover blondies?
Store your Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days for the best taste and texture. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Remember, they’re best enjoyed at room temperature!

Can I freeze these blondies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your blondies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them slightly in the microwave if you prefer them warm!

What are some variations or substitutions I can make?
Feeling creative? You can fold in nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch. If you want a fruity twist, try mixing in apple chunks or drizzling with caramel sauce. You can also use a gluten-free 1:1 flour mix for a gluten-free version or substitute the cream cheese icing with Greek yogurt for a lighter option!

Can I make these blondies dairy-free?
Yes, you can definitely make a dairy-free version! Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine, and use vegan cream cheese for the icing. This way, you can still enjoy the chewy, cinnamon-filled delight without the dairy.