Cinnamon Roll Blondies, or Blondies Roulés à la Cannelle, are the perfect fusion of two beloved treats—gooey cinnamon rolls and chewy, buttery blondies. Imagine the deep, caramel-like flavor of brown sugar blondies with beautiful ribbons of cinnamon-sugar swirls, all topped with a creamy glaze that melts in your mouth. This recipe brings warmth, comfort, and indulgence in every bite, making it an irresistible dessert for gatherings, holidays, or cozy nights in.
What Are Cinnamon Roll Blondies?
Cinnamon Roll Blondies take inspiration from the classic cinnamon roll, known for its spiced filling and velvety glaze. Instead of a yeasted dough, these blondies are made with a rich, dense batter that’s easy to prepare—no rising or rolling required. The highlight is the cinnamon sugar swirl baked right into the batter, mimicking the gooey center of a cinnamon roll.
This treat is all about texture and contrast: chewy edges, soft centers, warm spice, and a sweet vanilla glaze.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Blondies
Blondie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Vanilla Glaze:
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Blondies
1. Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth and glossy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
Add the flour and salt, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the blondies tender.
⏱️ Time: 5–7 minutes
2. Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix in the melted butter until the texture is like wet sand.
⏱️ Time: 2–3 minutes
3. Assemble the Blondies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Pour half of the blondie batter into the pan and smooth it out with a spatula. Spoon half the cinnamon mixture over the top and swirl it into the batter using a knife or toothpick.
Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon mixture, swirling again for that classic cinnamon roll effect.
⏱️ Time: 10 minutes
4. Bake
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Let the blondies cool completely in the pan.
⏱️ Baking Time: 25–30 minutes
5. Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (or cream) until smooth. You want a pourable, but not runny, consistency.
Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled blondies.
⏱️ Time: 3–5 minutes
6. Slice and Serve
Once the glaze has set slightly, lift the blondies from the pan and cut into squares or bars. Serve with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months without the glaze; thaw and drizzle fresh glaze when ready to serve.
- Make ahead by preparing the batter and swirl up to a day in advance and storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake fresh the next day.
Expert Tips for Best Results
- Use real butter, not margarine, for that classic blondie richness.
- Don’t skip the salt—it enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor.
- For extra gooeyness, slightly underbake the center; it will set as it cools.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch if desired.
- Double the glaze if you’re a frosting lover—it soaks in beautifully!
Nutritional Info (Per Bar)
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugar: 26g
- Protein: 2g
Why These Blondies Are a Must-Try
With the spiced soul of a cinnamon roll and the buttery chew of a blondie, this recipe hits all the right notes. It’s cozy, nostalgic, easy to make, and a guaranteed hit at brunches, bake sales, or dessert tables.
These cinnamon roll blondies offer everything you love about both treats, without the hassle of rolling dough. Plus, the beautiful swirls make them just as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
