Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Cinnamon Roll Blondies are the ultimate comfort food—a delightful fusion that combines the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the chewy, buttery texture of blondies. Imagine biting into a soft, warm treat swirled with gooey cinnamon sugar, all topped with a creamy icing that brings everything together. These blondies are sure to become your go-to dessert for cozy nights in or that perfect pick-me-up during a busy week.
Why are these Cinnamon Roll Blondies so beloved? They’re incredibly easy to make, needing just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, there's something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen. It’s as if each bite carries a whisper of nostalgia, evoking memories of warm family gatherings and joyful indulgences.
Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or sharing them with friends, these blondies are sure to please a crowd. And who doesn’t love a dessert that’s both delicious and simple to whip up? So, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into making these scrumptious Cinnamon Roll Blondies! For tips on kitchen tools, like the best baking pans, check out this resource.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Creating the perfect Cinnamon Roll Blondies involves gathering some essential ingredients that will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. Here’s what you need to get started:
Essential ingredients for the blondies
To make the base of your blondies, you'll need:
- 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 pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
These ingredients work together to create a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon swirls.
Ingredients for the cinnamon sugar
For that sweet cinnamon burst, combine:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup white sugar
This simple mixture will elevate your blondies, bringing that classic cinnamon roll flavor right into each bite.
Ingredients for the cream cheese icing
No dessert is complete without a luscious topping! For the icing, you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
This icing adds a creamy finish that beautifully contrasts the warm, sweet blondies. Enjoy crafting your Cinnamon Roll Blondies!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Making Cinnamon Roll Blondies at home is not just a cooking project; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweet anticipation. These delightful treats merge the gooeyness of blondies with the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Let’s jump into the step-by-step preparation!
Prepping the oven and pan
Start your Cinnamon Roll Blondies journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even baking temperature for your goodies. While your oven heats up, grab an 8 x 8-inch pan and line it with parchment paper. Lining the pan will make it super easy to remove the blondies later on—trust me, you won’t want them to stick!
Mixing the wet ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and packed light brown sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy. Next, add in one large egg, one egg yolk (using room-temperature eggs is key for a better rise), and a tablespoon of pure vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s nice and creamy—this is where the magic starts!
Combining dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good stir with a whisk to make sure there are no clumps. Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined. Remember, over-mixing can lead to dense blondies, and nobody wants that!
Swirling in that cinnamon sugar goodness
Once your batter is ready, pour it into the lined pan. Now, let’s bring on the flavor! In a small bowl, mix together that warm cinnamon sugar—just one tablespoon of cinnamon and a quarter cup of white sugar. Drop large spoonfuls of this mixture over the batter and use a butter knife to create those iconic swirls. The more holiday spirit in those swirls, the better!
Baking to perfection
Place your pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be golden brown and set, while the center may still appear a little doughy. That’s perfectly fine—they’ll firm up as they cool!
Making the irresistible cream cheese icing
While the blondies are baking, let’s whip up an icing that complements them perfectly. In a small sauce pan over medium-low heat, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk constantly until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly—patience is a virtue here!
Drizzling and slicing the blondies
Once the blondies have cooled, drizzle that heavenly cream cheese icing over the top. Now comes the hard part—allowing them to set for a moment! Once the icing firms up, slice your blondies into 9 squares and get ready to share (or not). Enjoy every gooey bite!
With these steps, making Cinnamon Roll Blondies becomes a delightful and engaging process. Enjoy the scrumptious results of your labor!
Variations on Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Add-ins That Elevate Your Blondies
The beauty of Cinnamon Roll Blondies is their adaptability! Consider adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. If you’re a chocolate lover, throwing in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips can elevate the dessert to a whole new level. Get creative and mix and match according to your personal taste!
Unique Flavor Swaps
Why not switch up the flavors for a fun twist? You could incorporate a pinch of nutmeg for a warm spice profile or swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract to give your blondies an elegant flair. Even adding a splash of bourbon-flavored syrup can create an interesting depth to the glaze. Experiment and find your perfect combination!
Are you ready to try these variations? Dive into your kitchen and make Cinnamon Roll Blondies uniquely yours!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Ensuring the Right Texture
For perfectly Cinnamon Roll Blondies, the texture is key. Make sure to fold the wet ingredients into the dry gently—overmixing can lead to a tough result. Your batter should be thick and slightly gooey, so don't worry if it seems underbaked in the center; they'll continue to set as they cool. For an extra moist treat, try adding a splash of milk or buttermilk to your batter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common pitfall is measuring flour incorrectly. To prevent a dry blondie, always use the spoon-and-level method rather than scooping directly from the bag. Another misstep is skipping the cooling time—allowing your blondies to cool completely before icing them ensures that the glaze doesn’t just slide off. If you're keen on experimenting, visit Culinary Institute of America for tips on baking science!
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Pairing with Beverages
Elevate your Cinnamon Roll Blondies experience by pairing them with warm beverages. A rich cup of coffee or a creamy chai latte complements the sweet cinnamon in the blondies beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something cooler, a glass of horchata or almond milk can balance the richness very well. These drinks enhance the flavors while providing a cozy atmosphere, perfect for savoring each bite!
Suggestions for Garnishing
Garnishing your Cinnamon Roll Blondies can take them to the next level. Consider drizzling extra cream cheese icing on top for a delightful finish. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the icing. A light dusting of cinnamon sugar can add an inviting touch as well. These simple additions will impress your guests, making these blondies not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes too!
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Preparation time
Get started by gathering your ingredients and tools—it takes about 15 minutes to prepare everything. Mixing the butter and sugars, adding the eggs, and combining the dry ingredients is quick and straightforward!
Baking time
The actual baking process takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on your oven, ensuring they're golden brown and satisfyingly puffed up.
Cooling time
Let your delicious Cinnamon Roll Blondies cool for at least 20 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture!
Total time
In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 5 minutes, including preparation, baking, and cooling. This makes them a great treat for a busy weekday or a cozy weekend gathering!
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
When indulging in these scrumptious Cinnamon Roll Blondies, it's helpful to know what you're savoring. Here’s a quick breakdown of their nutritional content:
- Calories: Each blondie packs approximately 250 calories, a delightful treat balanced in moderation.
- Sugars: With about 20 grams of sugars per blondie, the sweetness is just right to satisfy your cravings.
- Fats: Providing around 10 grams of fat, these blondies have a rich, satisfying texture that complements the cinnamon swirl.
Curious about incorporating Cinnamon Roll Blondies into your routine? A little indulgence can go a long way, especially if you enjoy them on special occasions or as a dessert for a cozy night in. Just remember to keep portion sizes in mind!
For more detailed insights, consider checking the USDA FoodData Central for specific ingredient breakdowns and nutritional guidelines.
FAQs about Cinnamon Roll Blondies
How do I store leftover blondies?
To keep your Cinnamon Roll Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds — this will give you that warm, gooey experience again!
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make Cinnamon Roll Blondies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Baking are great options and should yield delicious results.
What if I don't have cream cheese for the icing?
No cream cheese? No problem! You can replace it with Greek yogurt or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Mix about 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk and a splash of vanilla extract for a tasty icing that works beautifully.
If you have any more questions about making these delicious blondies, feel free to ask!
Conclusion on Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Creating Cinnamon Roll Blondies is a delightful experience that combines baking and celebration. These blondies are not just a treat for yourself; they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether for a gathering or a cozy night in, their incredible flavor is bound to bring joy to everyone!
Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Equipment
- 8 x 8-inch pan
- mixing bowl
- sauce pan
Ingredients
for the blondies
- 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
for the cinnamon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup white sugar
for the icing
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Instructions
Making the Blondies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8 x 8-inch pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together the butter and brown sugar. Add the egg, yolk, and vanilla extract and mix well.
- In a separate bowl stir together the baking powder, salt, and flour. Add the wet ingredients into the dry and fold together until just mixed and no clumps of flour remain. Do not over mix.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Make the cinnamon sugar by combining the sugar and cinnamon. Drop large spoonfuls of cinnamon sugar on top of the blondie batter. Use a butter knife to create big swirls.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the brownies are golden brown and set on the edges and have puffed up.
- 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, whisking constantly until everything is melted and combined. Take off the heat and allow to cool.
- Once the blondies are cool, drizzle with the cream cheese glaze. Cut into 9 squares and enjoy!
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