Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are delightful, chewy treats that bring a little warmth and sweetness to any occasion. These blondies combine the rich, buttery flavor of classic blondies with a sugary cinnamon topping that creates an irresistible finish. Whether you’re serving them fresh out of the oven or enjoying them a day later, they are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
What Is Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies?
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are a variation of traditional blondies but with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. These treats are dense and moist, providing a perfect canvas for the warm, inviting flavor of cinnamon. Unlike brownies, which are chocolate-based, blondies offer a vanilla-forward taste, with buttery notes that make them a favorite among those who prefer lighter desserts. They’re versatile enough to be adapted into various flavors or enjoyed as is.
Why You’ll Love This
There are countless reasons to love these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies. First, the texture is heavenly, combining that chewy density with a soft interior that melts in your mouth. Second, this recipe is incredibly simple, making it ideal for busy parents or anyone who may be new to baking. You can whip up a batch in no time, and the results are consistently delicious. Additionally, they are a cost-effective dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor, which can fit nicely into any budget-conscious meal plan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Butter (1 cup): Unsalted butter is best for achieving a rich and flavorful base, helping to create that chewy texture we all crave.
- Brown Sugar (2 cups): Brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives the blondies their signature moistness.
- Eggs (2 large): Eggs help bind the ingredients, giving the blondies structure and contributing to a fudgy texture.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and adds a sweet aroma as they bake.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): The primary dry ingredient, flour adds structure and, when blended nicely, will yield perfectly chewy blondies.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon): This leavening agent ensures your blondies are light and soft, avoiding any dense texture.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): A little salt balances out the sweet flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
- Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The star of the recipe, cinnamon infuses warmth and sweetness, taking these blondies to the next level.
- Granulated Sugar (½ cup): Used for the topping, this adds a sweet crunch that complements the soft interior beautifully.
How to Make
- Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang, which will make it easier to lift the blondies out later.
- Melt the butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s completely liquid. Allow it to cool slightly before moving on to avoid cooking the eggs in later steps.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with brown sugar. Stir vigorously until the mixture is well combined, and add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tougher blondies.
- Add the topping: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and extra cinnamon, and sprinkle it generously on top of the batter for that delightful crunch.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The blondies are done when the edges start to pull away from the pan, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations & Substitutions
Nutty Cinnamon Blondies: For a heartier texture, consider folding in 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking. Nuts add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. They pair exceptionally well with the sweet and spicy notes of cinnamon, making each bite even more satisfying.
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Blondies: If you’re a chocolate lover, consider adding 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter. The addition of chocolate adds richness and contrasts the sweetness of the blondies beautifully, offering a delicious blend of flavors that might become a family favorite.
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Blondies: Easily make these blondies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The result will still be a delicious and chewy treat, suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake when making blondies is over-mixing the batter. This can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough texture rather than the desired chewy bite. Mix just until combined to preserve that luscious chewiness.
Another issue is underbaking your blondies. You want a slight gooeyness in the middle, but if you pull them out too early, they may fall apart. Always do the toothpick test; if it comes out with a few crumbs, they’re perfect!
Finally, ensure you use the right pan size. A pan that’s too small will lead to thicker, longer baking times, whereas one that’s too big will yield thinner blondies that may dry out. Stick to a 9×13 inch pan for best results!
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To keep your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This ensures they maintain their moisture. If you have a larger batch that you can’t consume within that time, consider freezing them.
To freeze, allow the blondies to cool completely and then cut them into squares. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds to regain their original texture.
When reheating, if you aim for a warm treat, place the blondie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This warms them without drying them out and enhances their delightful flavor, making it feel like you just baked them!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding ingredients like nutmeg, ginger, or even pumpkin spice for a seasonal variation. Just balance the spices to ensure they don’t overwhelm the cinnamon flavor.
What makes blondies different from brownies?
The key difference lies in the ingredients. Brownies typically contain cocoa powder providing their chocolatey flavor, while blondies use brown sugar and vanilla for a more caramel-like taste. The texture differs as well, with blondies often being chewier due to the absence of chocolate.
How can I tell when my blondies are done baking?
To check if your blondies are fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it appears wet with batter, they need more time. Be careful not to overbake, which can lead to a dry texture.
Can I make these blondies in advance?
Yes! These blondies hold up well, so you can make them a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container, and they’ll still taste delicious when you’re ready to enjoy them.
What’s the best way to serve blondies?
These blondies are delightful on their own, but they can also be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce for an extra special dessert. Pairing them with coffee or tea makes for a cozy afternoon treat.
Conclusion: Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are not just a dessert; they’re an experience filled with warmth, sweetness, and comfort. With their quick preparation and delightful flavors, they are bound to become an instant favorite for family gatherings, friends’ get-togethers, or even a special treat for yourself after a long day. Don’t hesitate to try different variations to make them your own, and enjoy the simple pleasure these blondies bring!
