If you love the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but want something a little quicker and just as indulgent, these Cinnamon Roll Blondies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine the rich, buttery goodness of a blondie paired with swirls of cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts in your mouth. This treat takes all the best parts of a cinnamon roll and transforms them into a handheld dessert that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cozy cup of coffee. The Cinnamon Roll Blondies are irresistibly soft, perfectly sweet, and packed with cinnamon warmth, making them a delightful twist on a classic favorite.

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whipping up these Cinnamon Roll Blondies is surprisingly simple thanks to a handful of pantry staples that each play an important role in building flavor, texture, and that gorgeous golden color. From the rich melted butter that promises tender crumb to the cinnamon sugar swirl adding spice and sweetness, every ingredient is essential for creating this crowd-pleaser.

1 cup butter, melted: Provides richness and a moist, tender base for the blondies.
1 1/2 cups brown sugar: Adds deep sweetness and helps keep the blondies chewy.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and give structure.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
2 cups all-purpose flour: Builds the body of the blondie for the perfect chew.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
1/2 cup brown sugar (for cinnamon swirl): Combines with cinnamon for that classic roll taste.
1 tbsp cinnamon: Provides the signature warm spice swirl.
1/4 cup butter, melted (for cinnamon swirl): Helps create that sandy cinnamon sugar texture.
4 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for the luscious icing on top.
1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese glaze perfectly.
1–2 tbsp milk: Adjusts the icing consistency for easy drizzling.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for icing): Adds extra warmth and depth to the glaze.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This step ensures your blondies will come out cleanly and look picture-perfect when you slice them up.

Step 2: Make the Blondie Batter

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar until well blended. Next, stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth. Now, gently fold in the flour and salt, being careful not to overmix — this keeps your blondies tender and chewy rather than tough.

Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Swirl

In a separate small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. This cinnamon swirl will create those beautiful, flavor-packed ribbons throughout your blondies.

Step 4: Assemble the Blondies

Spread the blondie batter evenly into your prepared pan. Then, drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the top. Use a butter knife or a skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon into the batter, creating that classic cinnamon roll effect without the fuss.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know the blondies are ready when the edges turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

While your blondies cool completely in the pan, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable. Drizzle this luscious glaze evenly over the cooled blondies and let it set before slicing.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Blondies

Garnishes

On their own, Cinnamon Roll Blondies are fantastic, but when you add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon powder on top, they look even more inviting and deliver an extra crunch or spice boost. Fresh fruit like thin apple slices or a few raspberries can also add a lovely contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair these blondies with a warm cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or a chilled glass of milk to complement their rich, buttery flavors. They also shine alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re serving them as a decadent dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the Cinnamon Roll Blondies into bite-sized squares to serve as party snacks or stack a few pieces alongside some whipped cream and caramel drizzle for an impressive dessert platter. Wrapping individual blondies in parchment and tying them with a ribbon makes a charming and personal homemade gift too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be tough!), store the Cinnamon Roll Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days — perfect for enjoying over a couple of mornings or sharing with friends at work.

Freezing

You can freeze these blondies either whole in the pan or cut into squares. Wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

To warm them up, pop a blondie square in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds, or heat individual portions in a low oven until soft and cozy. The creamy icing will soften too, making each bite melt in your mouth.

FAQs

Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?

Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor that is key for the chewy texture and warmth in Cinnamon Roll Blondies. Using white sugar will change the texture, making them firmer and less rich, so it’s best to stick to brown sugar if possible.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure your blend includes xanthan gum for structure, or add about 1/4 teaspoon separately to keep the blondies soft and chewy.

Can I substitute the cream cheese icing with something else?

If cream cheese isn’t your thing, you can try a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. While it’s not as rich, it still adds a nice sweet finish that complements the cinnamon swirl wonderfully.

How do I avoid overmixing the batter?

Once you add the flour, gently fold it in just until you no longer see dry streaks. Overmixing develops gluten, making the blondies tough. Remember, a few lumps are okay and actually helpful for tender results.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, doubling works well if you have a larger pan or want more blondies to share. Just make sure to bake in batches or use a larger pan scaled appropriately and adjust baking time accordingly — keep an eye on the blondies to prevent overbaking.

Final Thoughts

Once you make these Cinnamon Roll Blondies, you’ll understand why they’ve quickly become a beloved treat. They capture every cozy element of a cinnamon roll in an easier, no-rolling-required form that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether shared with friends, gifted, or enjoyed solo, these blondies spread warmth and happiness one bite at a time. Go ahead and make a batch—you’ll thank me later!

Cinnamon Roll Blondies Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 27 reviews

Author: Victor
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Cinnamon Roll Blondies are a delightful twist on classic blondies, featuring a rich, buttery base swirled with a cinnamon sugar mixture and topped with a creamy cream cheese icing. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the easy, portable form of blondies, perfect for dessert or a sweet snack.

Instructions

Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the blondie batter: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and 1 1/2 cups brown sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the flour and salt, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Prepare cinnamon swirl: In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Assemble the blondies: Spread the blondie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter’s surface. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture throughout the blondie batter to create a marbled effect.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Cool completely: Remove from the oven and allow the blondies to cool fully in the pan before adding icing.
Make the icing: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and smooth.
Ice the blondies: Drizzle or spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the cooled blondies. Slice and serve.

Notes

For a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the swirl to 1 1/2 tablespoons.
Make sure the blondies are completely cool before icing to prevent the icing from melting.
You can substitute milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option in the icing.
Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
For easy slicing, chill the blondies after icing for at least 30 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American