I’ve always had a soft spot for blondies, those chewy, vanilla-infused cousins of the brownie. But sometimes, I crave something more, something with a little swirl of warmth and spice. That’s where these Cinnamon Sugar Blondies come in, my friends.
Imagine the comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll combined with the satisfying chew of a perfect blondie.
From start to finish, including cooling time, you’re looking at about an hour until you can sink your teeth into one of these squares of delight.
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Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
- They have the most irresistible chewy texture, thanks to the perfect ratio of butter, sugar, and flour.
- That cinnamon sugar swirl is not just pretty; it infuses every bite with warm, spicy sweetness.
- The cream cheese glaze is so easy to make and adds a tangy, decadent touch.
- The whole recipe comes together quickly with easy steps, using ingredients I bet you already have.
What Are Cinnamon Sugar Blondies?
Blondies are often mistaken for brownies, but they’re really in a class of their own. While brownies get their rich, chocolatey flavor from cocoa powder or melted chocolate, blondies shine with a buttery, vanilla-forward taste.
Key ingredients like brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract give blondies their signature chewy texture and warm, caramel-like notes.
The Science Behind Perfect Blondies
The difference between blondies and brownies really comes down to ingredients and their ratios. Blondies rely on brown sugar for moisture and chewiness, and the absence of cocoa allows the vanilla and butter flavors to really shine.
The high fat content from the butter contributes to a tender crumb and rich flavor, while the right amount of flour provides structure without making them cakey.
The egg and extra egg yolk also add richness and contribute to the chewy texture.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these beauties.
Blondie Batter Ingredients
- 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 Topping Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup white sugar
Cream Cheese Glaze Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Equipment You’ll Need
To make these Cinnamon Sugar Blondies, you’ll need:
- 8×8 inch baking pan: I prefer a light metal pan for even baking. Dark metal pans can sometimes lead to over-browning on the edges.
- Parchment paper: This is essential for easy removal and cleanup.
- Mixing bowls: A couple of different sizes will come in handy.
- Whisk: For blending the wet ingredients.
- Butter knife: For creating those beautiful cinnamon sugar swirls.
- Saucepan: A small saucepan for melting the cream cheese glaze.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Blondies: Step-by-Step
Here’s how to bring these Cinnamon Sugar Blondies to life, step by step.
Making the Blondie Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. This is super important for even baking! Line an 8 x 8-inch pan with parchment paper, letting the excess hang over the sides. This will make removing the blondies a breeze.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted and slightly cooled butter and packed light brown sugar until well combined. Make sure your butter isn’t too hot, or it could cook the eggs.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until everything is smooth and creamy. The extra egg yolk adds richness and chewiness!
- In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which helps the blondies rise properly.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just mixed and no clumps of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to tough blondies.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Creating the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and white sugar. Mix well. This is your swirl magic!
- Drop large spoonfuls of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top of the blondie batter.
- Use a butter knife to create big swirls in the batter. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your swirls!
Preparing the Cream Cheese Glaze
- While the cinnamon roll blondies cool, make the cream cheese icing. In a small sauce pan over medium low heat, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt.
- Whisk constantly until everything is melted and combined. Make sure to whisk constantly to prevent scorching.
- Take off the heat and allow to cool. This will thicken it up a bit.
- Once the blondies are cool, drizzle with the cream cheese glaze. Cut into 9 squares and enjoy! Thinking of other cinnamon treats? Why not try this Quick & Easy Cinnamon Roll French Toast: The Ultimate Recipe
Baking Time and How to Know When They’re Done
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and set and have puffed up.
The middle will still be pretty doughy, but they will continue to cook as they cool. I always check with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
- Preventing sticking: Besides parchment paper, you can grease the pan with butter or cooking spray before lining it with parchment.
- Chewy texture: Don’t overbake! A slightly underbaked center is key to that perfect chew.
- Shiny, crackled top: Make sure your butter is melted but not too hot when you mix it with the sugar. The temperature shock helps create that signature shine.
- Evenly distributing the cinnamon sugar: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture all over the batter, then use a butter knife to swirl it in. This ensures every bite has that cinnamon sugar goodness.
Glaze Variations
Want to mix things up? Try these glaze variations:
- Maple Glaze: Combine 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon milk. Whisk until smooth.
- Vanilla Bean Glaze: Add the seeds from half a vanilla bean to the standard cream cheese glaze for an extra burst of vanilla flavor.
Ingredient Quality Matters
Using high-quality butter and vanilla extract can really elevate the flavor of these blondies. The richness of the butter and the depth of the vanilla will shine through in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take them to the next level:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
- Drizzle with extra caramel sauce.
How to Store Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Let thaw at room temperature before serving.
Consider adding these Blondies to your next breakfast or brunch.
Can I Double or Halve This Recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or halve this recipe! For a double batch, use a 9×13 inch pan and increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes. For a half batch, use a smaller pan (like a loaf pan) and decrease the baking time accordingly.
Troubleshooting: Common Blondie Problems and Solutions
- Dry/Cakey Blondies: This is usually caused by overbaking or adding too much flour. Be sure to measure your flour accurately and don’t overbake.
Ingredient Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brown Sugar | White sugar + molasses | Use 1 cup white sugar + 2 tablespoons molasses |
| Butter | Margarine or coconut oil | May slightly alter the texture |
| Vanilla Extract | Almond extract, maple syrup | Use sparingly, as these have stronger flavors |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my blondies dry/too cakey?
Overbaking is the most common culprit. Also, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly (spoon and level method is best) and not adding too much.
Can I use different types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that these substitutions may affect the texture. Gluten-free flour may result in a slightly drier blondie, while whole wheat flour will give them a nuttier flavor and denser texture.
What’s the best way to store blondies?
For short-term storage (up to 3 days), an airtight container at room temperature works great. For longer storage, the refrigerator will keep them fresh for up to a week. And for even longer storage, the freezer is your best bet.
According to the FDA, it’s wise to consider that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting calories from added sugars to less than 10 percent of total calories per day.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of chewy texture, warm spice, and tangy sweetness. They’re easy to make, customizable, and sure to impress.
Now it’s your turn! I can’t wait for you to try them. Please leave a comment below to let me know how they turn out, or if you have any questions. I hope you love them as much as I do!
Follow us on Pinterest for more buttery bakes, cinnamon-swirled sweets, and cozy dessert ideas that feel like a warm hug. From chewy blondies to fall-inspired brunch treats, we’ve got your cravings covered!
Cinnamon Sugar Blondies: A Delicious Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. This is super important for even baking! Line an 8 x 8-inch pan with parchment paper, letting the excess hang over the sides. This will make removing the blondies a breeze.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted and slightly cooled butter and packed light brown sugar until well combined. Make sure your butter isn’t too hot, or it could cook the eggs.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until everything is smooth and creamy. The extra egg yolk adds richness and chewiness!
- In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which helps the blondies rise properly.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just mixed and no clumps of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to tough blondies.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and white sugar. Mix well. This is your swirl magic!
- Drop large spoonfuls of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top of the blondie batter.
- Use a butter knife to create big swirls in the batter. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your swirls!
- While the cinnamon roll blondies cool, make the cream cheese icing. In a small sauce pan over medium low heat, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt.
- Whisk constantly until everything is melted and combined. Make sure to whisk constantly to prevent scorching.
- Take off the heat and allow to cool. This will thicken it up a bit.
- Once the blondies are cool, drizzle with the cream cheese glaze. Cut into 9 squares and enjoy!
