The smell of cinnamon. It instantly takes me back. Back to crisp autumn afternoons spent at my grandma’s kitchen table. We’d be baking, a flurry of flour and sugar and laughter. She always made the best blondies—chewy, buttery, and coated in a genero
us sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are my attempt to recreate that feeling, that comfort, that pure, simple joy. They’re ridiculously easy to make, require minimal effort, and deliver maximum deliciousness. Perfect for cozy evenings, fall gatherings, or just because you deserve a sweet treat.Why You’ll Love These Blondies
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good blondie? But these are special. Here’s why:
- Seriously Simple: This recipe uses pantry staples and requires no fancy equipment. It’s perfect for beginner bakers.
- Chewy Texture: The right ratio of ingredients creates an irresistible chewy center. Not cakey, not too dense – just perfect.
- Warm, Cozy Flavor: Cinnamon and sugar create a classic flavor combination that screams fall. It’s like a warm hug in a dessert.
- Customizable: Love nuts? Chocolate chips? Dried cranberries? Add them! It’s your blank canvas for blondie bliss.
- Kid-Friendly: Even little helpers can get involved in mixing and sprinkling the cinnamon sugar. Baking together just makes everything better.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather everything. Don’t worry, you probably have most of this already!
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter: Softened, but not melted. Think press-a-finger-and-it-leaves-a-mark soft.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: For sweetness and that beautiful golden crust.
- 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a rich caramel flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Room temperature is best!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Don’t skimp on the vanilla – it makes a difference.
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour: I prefer using unbleached flour.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the blondies rise slightly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk: Any kind of milk works – dairy or non-dairy.
- 2 tablespoons (25g) unsalted butter, melted: For coating the pan.
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: For the cinnamon sugar topping
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Freshly ground is ideal, for a more potent aroma.
Let’s Bake! – Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, let’s get baking! This is so easy, you’ll be a blondie pro in no time.
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan with the 1/4 cup of melted butter. Make sure to get all the corners! You can also line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang – this makes it super easy to remove the blondies later.
Step 2: Cream the Butter & Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. An electric mixer is easiest, but you can do this by hand with some elbow grease. This step is important! It incorporates air, which helps create a lighter blondie.
Step 3: Add the Eggs & Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Gradually Add Dry to Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can make the blondies tough.
Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with the cinnamon. Mix well.
Step 7: Bake It!
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Every oven is different, so start checking at 25 minutes.
Step 8: Cool & Enjoy!
Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This helps them firm up and prevents them from crumbling. If you used parchment paper, lift the blondies out of the pan using the overhang and cut them on a cutting board.
Tips, Variations & Serving Suggestions
Let’s elevate these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies!
Tips for Blondie Perfection:
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaked blondies are dry and crumbly. Err on the side of slightly underbaked for a chewier texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients helps them combine more evenly.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife, rather than scooping directly from the bag. Scooping can pack the flour and result in dry blondies.
- Rest the Dough (Optional): For even chewier blondies, cover the batter and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
Variations to Try:
- Nutty Blondies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the batter.
- Chocolate Chip Blondies: Fold in 1/2 – 1 cup of chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet – your choice!).
- Cranberry Orange Blondies: Add 1/2 cup dried cranberries and the zest of one orange.
- Caramel Swirl Blondies: Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter before baking.
- Brown Butter Blondies: Brown the butter before adding it to the recipe for even deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Warm with Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing!
- With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
- As a Dessert Topping: Crumble over yogurt or oatmeal.
- Gift them! Wrap them up in cellophane and ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per square, based on 16 squares)
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Saturated Fat: 6-8g
- Cholesterol: 20-30mg
- Sodium: 70-90mg
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are truly a slice of comfort. They’re simple to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing (or not!). Don’t be intimidated; grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try. You won’t regret it! Happy baking!
