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Capture the warm, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll in these irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Blondies, a perfect dessert for summer gatherings or cozy evenings. Ready in just 30 minutes, these soft, chewy blondies feature a buttery brown sugar base, a gooey cinnamon swirl, and an optional creamy cheese icing. Easy to make with pantry staples, this Cinnamon Sugar Blondies recipe is a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s ideal for picnics, barbecues, or satisfying sweet cravings. Follow our simple recipe to create this delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Blondies Recipe

These Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are a standout dessert, blending nostalgic cinnamon roll flavors with effortless preparation. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for spontaneous summer entertaining.
Cinnamon Roll Magic: All the cozy flavors of a cinnamon roll without the fuss of yeast dough.
Soft and Chewy: A buttery, fudgy texture with a gooey cinnamon swirl in every bite.
Customizable: Add or skip the cream cheese icing for your preferred sweetness level.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for barbecues, potlucks, or family dessert nights.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

To prepare these cozy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies (makes 16 bars), gather these ingredients:

For the Blondie Base:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Cinnamon Swirl:

2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Cream Cheese Icing (Optional):

2 oz cream cheese, very soft (almost melted)
3-4 tbsp powdered sugar, sifted if lumpy
1-2 tbsp milk
Few drops of vanilla extract

Ingredient Tips:

Butter: Unsalted butter ensures control over flavor; melt it just before mixing.
Brown Sugar: Pack tightly for a rich, caramel-like sweetness in this dessert.
Cinnamon: Use fresh, high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor in the swirl.
Cream Cheese: Soften thoroughly for a smooth, drizzleable icing; microwave briefly if needed.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Follow these steps to create delicious Cinnamon Sugar Blondies:

Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal, and spray with non-stick spray.
Make the Blondie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk 1/2 cup melted butter and 3/4 cup brown sugar for 1 minute until smooth. Whisk in 1 egg and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Sprinkle 1 1/3 cups flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt over the mixture; stir with a rubber spatula until just combined. Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter with 1/4 cup brown sugar, whisking until smooth and dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Dollop or drizzle over the blondie batter, then use a knife to gently swirl (use a figure-8 motion for a subtle swirl, avoiding deep mixing).
Bake: Bake for 21-24 minutes, until the edges are set, slightly browned, and the center has a slight jiggle (avoid overbaking). Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Make Cream Cheese Icing (Optional): Using a whisk or hand mixer, stir 2 oz soft cream cheese until smooth. Add 3-4 tbsp powdered sugar, 1-2 tbsp milk, and a few drops of vanilla extract, adjusting with more sugar to thicken or milk to thin. Drizzle over cooled blondies.
Serve: Lift blondies from the pan using the foil overhang, cut into 16 squares, and serve as a cozy dessert, perfect with coffee or ice cream.

Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Don’t Overbake: Remove when the center is slightly soft to ensure a chewy texture in this dessert.
Line the Pan: Use foil or parchment for easy removal and cleanup.
Subtle Swirl: Swirl the cinnamon mixture lightly for a distinct contrast rather than fully mixing.
Cool Completely: Let blondies cool before icing to achieve the perfect fudgy consistency.
Adjust Icing: Skip the icing for a simpler dessert or double it for extra decadence.

Creative Variations for Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Customize these Cinnamon Sugar Blondies with these delicious twists:

Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter or on top for texture.
Fruity Twist: Add 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet-tart contrast in this dessert.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon swirl for extra warmth.
Chocolate Boost: Mix in 1/2 cup white chocolate chips for a sweet, creamy addition.

Serving and Presentation Tips

These Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are a versatile dessert that shines at any occasion. Try these serving ideas:

Serve on a rustic platter with a drizzle of extra icing for a cozy, inviting presentation.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent summer treat.
Present with iced coffee, hot tea, or a summer cocktail like a spiced rum punch for a refreshing contrast.
Cut into bite-sized squares for picnics, potlucks, or dessert trays at gatherings.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or edible gold dust for an elegant, Instagram-worthy look.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature: Store without icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: Store with icing in the fridge for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freeze: Wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature.
Prep Ahead: Bake and cool blondies a day in advance; add icing just before serving.
Refresh: Warm briefly in the microwave (10 seconds) to restore the soft, chewy texture.

FAQs About Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Can I make this dessert without the cream cheese icing?
Yes, Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are delicious without icing; dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.

Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, freeze cooled Cinnamon Sugar Blondies (without icing) for up to 3 months; thaw and ice before serving.

How do I prevent dense blondies in this dessert?
Avoid overmixing the batter and don’t overbake to keep Cinnamon Sugar Blondies soft and chewy.

Can I use a different pan size for this dessert?
Yes, a 9×9 pan works but may yield thinner blondies; adjust baking time to 18-22 minutes.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in this dessert?
Use mascarpone or a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk for a different icing on Cinnamon Sugar Blondies.

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Conclusion

These Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are a cozy, flavorful dessert that brings cinnamon roll magic to your table in just 30 minutes. Perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or satisfying sweet cravings, they’re easy to make and endlessly customizable. Try this recipe today and enjoy a batch of chewy, spiced blondies that are sure to become a favorite!