There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of cinnamon and brown sugar wafting through your kitchen on a quiet afternoon. Picture this: you’re pulling a pan of golden, chewy blondies from the oven, their tops glistening with a perfect cinnamon sugar crust. The first bite delivers that perfect balance—soft and fudgy in the center, with caramelized edges that give way to warm spice and rich vanilla.
These aren’t just any brownies’ blonde cousin—they’re a celebration of simplicity and warmth. With pantry staples and one bowl, you can create these golden squares of pure comfort that somehow taste like childhood memories and cozy afternoons all rolled into one.
In this guide, we’re mastering the art of cinnamon sugar blondies—plus variations that will make them your signature treat. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, treating yourself after a long day, or creating new family traditions, these blondies are here to bring sweetness to any moment.
Why Cinnamon Sugar Blondies Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Box
✅ One-Bowl Wonder
Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. Everything comes together in a single bowl, making these perfect for spontaneous baking sessions.
💰 Pantry-Friendly
Made with everyday ingredients you likely already have—no special trips to the store required.
🌟 Crowd-Pleasing Magic
That perfect chewy texture and warm cinnamon flavor appeals to everyone from kids to grandparents.
⏰ Quick Satisfaction
From craving to first bite in under an hour—because sometimes you need dessert, and you need it now.
Classic Cinnamon Sugar Blondies 🟫
These golden beauties strike the perfect balance between cake and cookie, with a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1️⃣ Prep Your Pan:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
2️⃣ Make the Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
3️⃣ Add Dry Ingredients:
Gently fold in flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Don’t overmix—lumps are okay!
4️⃣ Spread and Top:
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Mix cinnamon sugar topping ingredients and sprinkle over batter. Use a knife to gently swirl for a marbled effect.
5️⃣ Bake to Golden Perfection:
Bake 25-30 minutes until edges are set and top is golden. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
6️⃣ Cool and Cut:
Let cool completely in pan before lifting out and cutting into squares.
✨ Baker’s Secret: For extra-chewy blondies, slightly underbake them. They’ll continue cooking in the hot pan as they cool.
Brown Butter Cinnamon Blondies 🧈
Take your blondies to the next level with nutty, aromatic brown butter that adds incredible depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
- Same base recipe as above
- Upgrade: Brown the butter instead of just melting it
Brown Butter Instructions:
1️⃣ Brown the Butter:
In a light-colored saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, swirling occasionally. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 5-7 minutes).
2️⃣ Cool Slightly:
Let brown butter cool for 10 minutes before using in the recipe.
3️⃣ Follow Base Recipe:
Continue with classic recipe instructions, using the cooled brown butter.
✨ Pro Tip: The brown butter will solidify slightly as it cools—this actually helps create an even better texture!
Loaded Cinnamon Sugar Blondies 🍫
For those who believe more is more, these blondies are packed with mix-ins that complement the cinnamon perfectly.
Add to Base Recipe:
- ½ cup cinnamon chips
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (reduce vanilla to 1 tsp)
Instructions: Follow the classic recipe, folding in mix-ins with the dry ingredients.
✨ Mix-In Ideas: Try butterscotch chips, dried apples, or even a handful of oats for texture variety.
Creative Ways to Serve Your Blondies
🍨 Dessert Perfection
Warm a square and top with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
☕ Coffee Shop Vibes
Cut into smaller squares and serve alongside afternoon coffee or tea.
🎉 Party Ready
Dust with powdered sugar and cut into bite-sized pieces for elegant party squares.
🥛 Midnight Snack
Keep a square handy with a cold glass of milk for the perfect bedtime treat.
Storage & Serving Guide
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3-4 days | Store in airtight container |
| Refrigerated | 1 week | Brings out fudgy texture |
| Frozen | 3 months | Wrap individually for grab-and-go treats |
| Warm Serving | Best practice | 10 seconds in microwave for fresh-baked taste |
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Comfort Recipe
There’s magic in the simplicity of cinnamon sugar blondies—how a handful of everyday ingredients can transform into something that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen. These golden squares represent the best of home baking: approachable, forgiving, and utterly satisfying.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your baking journey, these blondies will quickly become your reliable comfort recipe. They’re the treat you’ll make when friends stop by unexpectedly, when you need to bring something to a gathering, or when you simply want to fill your home with the scent of cinnamon and vanilla.
So preheat that oven, grab your biggest mixing bowl, and get ready to create some golden, cinnamon-kissed magic. Your kitchen—and everyone who gets to taste these blondies—will thank you for it.