There’s something utterly comforting about the scent of cinnamon wafting through my kitchen, reminiscent of cozy afternoons spent baking with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share my full-proof recipe for Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies—dessert magic that merges the rich, gooey goodness of blondies with the warm, nostalgic swirl of cinnamon sugar.
This recipe not only boasts layers of flavor but is also incredibly easy to whip up, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Perfect for potlucks or an after-dinner treat, these blondies are a delightful departure from standard desserts, offering that charming, homey vibe that fast food simply can’t match.
With just a few simple ingredients and less than half an hour in the oven, you’ll have a batch of these luscious blondies ready to share—or indulge in all by yourself! So, let’s dive into the sweet embrace of cinnamon and discover how to create a treat that’s sure to surprise and delight your taste buds.
Why will you love Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies?
Comforting Aroma: As the blondies bake, your kitchen will fill with the warm scent of cinnamon, evoking fond memories.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep time and a speedy cook time, you’ll have a dessert ready in no time!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these blondies are always a hit, delighting friends and family alike.
Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of snickerdoodle essence with chewy blondie texture is simply irresistible.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an after-dinner dessert or a midday snack—these blondies fit any occasion!
Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondie Base
• Brown sugar – enhances the richness and provides a chewy texture.
• Salted butter – using salted butter adds a delightful savory note to balance the sweetness.
• Large egg – binds the ingredients together for that perfect blondie structure.
• Vanilla extract – a splash of vanilla elevates the flavor complexity.
• All-purpose flour – the backbone of your blondies, creating a sturdy yet tender treat.
• Baking powder – ensures your blondies rise to fluffy perfection.
• Kosher salt – a touch of salt enhances overall flavor harmony.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – these little gems bring richness and sweetness in every bite.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
• Cinnamon – this aromatic spice gives your blondies that signature snickerdoodle kick.
• Apple butter or maple syrup – adds moisture and a hint of fruitiness; maple syrup is a delightful alternative.
• Cinnamon sugar – sprinkle on top for a sweet, crunchy finish that elevates your blondies into a new realm of deliciousness.
This delightful combination of ingredients creates the perfect Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies to satisfy your sweet tooth!
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal later on!
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Mix the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl to create your cinnamon swirl. Spread this mixture on a lined small baking sheet. Freeze for 10 minutes until it’s firm and can be crumbled easily.
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Brown the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This step enhances the nutty flavor of your blondies. Pour the brown butter into a mixing bowl once done.
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Combine the brown sugar, apple butter (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla with the brown butter. Beat until everything is well combined. Then, add in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, folding in the chocolate chips and 2/3 of the cinnamon chunks for that delectable swirl.
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Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing the remaining cinnamon chunks on top. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the surface for an extra sweet finish!
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Bake for 20-22 minutes until the edges are just set but the center remains slightly doughy. Allow the blondies to cool before cutting them into bars.
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Serve and enjoy the rewards of your hard work! They’re perfect for a snack or dessert!
Optional: Dust with a little extra cinnamon sugar before serving for added sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft and delicious, perfect for snacking!
Fridge: For extended freshness, store the blondies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Freeze the blondies in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to pull out a sweet treat whenever your cravings hit!
Reheating: Warm individual blondies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their gooey texture, and enjoy your comforting Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
Brown Butter Magic: Don’t skip the browning process; it adds a depth of flavor that elevates your blondies beyond the ordinary.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to prevent tough blondies. A few lumps are okay!
Perfect Baking Time: Keep an eye on your blondies; they should still be slightly doughy in the center when you take them out.
Chill the Cinnamon Swirl: Freezing the cinnamon mixture for 10 minutes helps create that beautiful swirl and prevents it from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Storage Tips: Keep your Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies in an airtight container for up to a week, though they likely won’t last that long!
Cinnamon Swirl Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and variations for a personalized touch to your blondies!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep the texture enjoyable.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter for a dairy-free option that maintains great flavor.
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce into the batter along with the cinnamon swirl for an indulgent twist reminiscent of caramel flan.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the cinnamon mix to elevate the flavor with a subtle kick.
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Fruit Infusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of mashed ripe bananas or applesauce instead of apple butter for natural sweetness and moisture.
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Chocolate Lovers: Replace half of the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweet, creamy contrast that’s always a hit.
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Maple Twist: Use maple extract instead of vanilla for a rich, warm flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
Each variation makes these blondies uniquely yours while keeping that comforting charm intact!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies in advance is a fantastic way to streamline your baking and make your week a little sweeter! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead of time by mixing all the ingredients and spreading it into your lined baking dish. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Additionally, the cinnamon swirl can be made and frozen for up to 3 days; simply crumble the frozen mix over the top when you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to indulge, bake straight from the fridge, adjusting baking time as needed (a few extra minutes might be required). This way, you’ll have warm, gooey blondies right when you need them—perfect for busy weeknights or surprise guests!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies?
Create a dessert experience that warms the heart and tantalizes the taste buds with delightful pairings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast to the warm blondies, making every bite a blissful treat.
- Coffee or Espresso: The rich bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the blondies, making it an ideal pairing for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Fresh Berries: Berries like raspberries or strawberries add a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness beautifully. Their vibrant colors also enhance the dessert’s visual appeal.
For an extra special touch, consider drizzling a homemade caramel sauce over the blondies. The luscious sweetness and sticky texture will take your treat to the next level.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this over your blondies for a decadent touch; the sweet saltiness enhances the cinnamon notes wonderfully.
- Milk: A classic pairing, a glass of cold milk is perfect for dunking and adds to the nostalgic dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a fluffy texture that enhances the overall richness of the blondies.
These pairings transform your delightful Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies into a memorable dessert spread that friends and family will adore!
Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for apple butter?
Absolutely! When selecting apples for apple butter, I recommend using sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala. Look for firm apples without any bruises or dark spots, which indicate ripeness. The sweeter the apple, the richer your apple butter will be, enhancing the flavor profile of your blondies.
How should I store my Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies?
Keep your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies?
Yes! To freeze, simply wrap the blondies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that gooey texture.
What if my blondies are too gooey in the center?
Very! If they turn out overly gooey, it may be due to underbaking or too much moisture. Make sure to check the blondies a few minutes before the suggested bake time. They should be set around the edges while the center remains slightly soft. If you find they’re too moist after cooling, try adjusting your baking time next time!
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and eggs, which may pose concerns for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour. You can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), and choose a dairy-free butter alternative to accommodate those with dairy allergies.
Can I use other spices instead of cinnamon?
Very! While cinnamon provides that classic snickerdoodle flavor, feel free to experiment with other warm spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique twist. Each spice will bring its own character to your blondies, making it a fun opportunity to personalize the recipe!
Cinnamon Swirl Snickerdoodle Blondies that Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.
- Mix the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl to create your cinnamon swirl. Spread this mixture on a lined small baking sheet and freeze for 10 minutes until it’s firm.
- Brown the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Pour the brown butter into a mixing bowl once done.
- Combine the brown sugar, apple butter (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla with the brown butter. Beat until well combined. Add in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, folding in the chocolate chips and 2/3 of the cinnamon chunks.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing the remaining cinnamon chunks on top and sprinkling cinnamon sugar over the surface.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes until the edges are just set but the center remains slightly doughy. Allow the blondies to cool before cutting them into bars.
- Serve and enjoy the rewards of your hard work! Optional: Dust with a little extra cinnamon sugar before serving.