Get ready to whip up a treat that’s hard to resist: Snickerdoodle Blondies! These soft, chewy bars mix the best of blondies and the warm, sweet spice of cinnamon sugar. In this post, I’ll guide you through every step, from gathering simple ingredients to adding fun variations. Whether you're an expert baker or just starting, you'll find tips to make these blondies a hit. Let’s dive in and bake something delicious together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Soft and Chewy Texture: These blondies have a wonderfully soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making them irresistible!
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon creates a delightful flavor profile that is both sweet and comforting.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it a quick go-to dessert for any occasion.
- Versatile Treat: These blondies are perfect for sharing at parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
To make snickerdoodle blondies, you need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
These ingredients work together to create a rich, sweet treat that melts in your mouth. The butter adds moisture, while the sugars give it that perfect sweetness. Eggs help bind everything together, making the blondies chewy.
The flour provides structure, and the baking powder and baking soda help them rise. Salt balances the sweetness and enhances flavor. Finally, cinnamon adds warmth and spice, making each bite delightful.
Using these simple ingredients, you can create a warm dessert that is perfect for sharing or enjoying alone. Each flavor shines, making these blondies a must-bake treat in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. The paper should hang over the edges. This helps you lift out the blondies later.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
- Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, stirring after each addition.
- Then pour in the vanilla extract and mix again until everything is well combined.
Combining Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the blondies soft.
Adding the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Pour the blondie batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the batter.
Baking Instructions
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
- To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Cooling and Serving
- Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out.
- Once cooled, cut the blondies into squares and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Blondies
To get the best blondies, you must avoid overmixing. Mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing can make your blondies tough. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out wet, bake a bit longer.
Pairing Suggestions
For drinks, I recommend a glass of cold milk. Coffee also pairs nicely with these blondies. If you want to serve another treat, try vanilla ice cream. The warm blondies and cold ice cream make a great combo.
Baking Tips for Beginners
Start with essential tools like measuring cups and a good mixing bowl. A spatula and a 9x13 inch pan are also needed. Common mistakes include not measuring ingredients accurately. This can change the texture. Also, always preheat your oven. It helps bake evenly.
Pro Tips
- Storage Tip: Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their softness.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a handful of white chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking.
- Even Baking: Ensure that your oven is properly calibrated for even baking. Rotate the pan halfway through the baking time for best results.
- Chill for Texture: For a fudgier texture, chill the blondies in the refrigerator for at least an hour before cutting them into squares.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily change up your snickerdoodle blondies. Here are two fun ideas:
- Adding chocolate chips: Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips. You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate. The sweet chocolate will create a nice contrast with the cinnamon.
- Incorporating nuts or dried fruit: Try adding ½ cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit. Walnuts or pecans work well here. They add crunch and flavor to your blondies.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free version, it's simple to make. Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Almond flour and oat flour are great choices.
- Adjusting baking time: Keep an eye on your blondies. They may need an extra 5 minutes. Use a toothpick to check if they are done.
Vegan Alternatives
You can also make these blondies vegan. It’s easy to swap out a few ingredients.
- Substituting eggs and butter: Replace eggs with ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce. For butter, use vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Vegan-friendly sugar choices: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of regular sugar. This way, you keep it plant-based while still tasting great.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storage
Store your snickerdoodle blondies at room temperature. Use an airtight container for best results. This keeps them fresh and moist. If you live in a warm area, you may want to refrigerate them.
Freezing Blondies
To freeze blondies, first let them cool completely. Cut them into squares, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer bag for extra protection. When you want to enjoy them, take out a piece and let it thaw at room temperature. It will taste fresh again!
Shelf Life
These blondies stay fresh for about one week at room temperature. In the fridge, they last around two weeks. Look for signs of spoilage, like a hard texture or unusual smells. If they feel dry or crumbly, it’s time to toss them.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. Just skip adding extra salt. This change can add a slight salty taste. If you love that flavor, go for it!
What's the difference between blondies and brownies?
Blondies are lighter and sweeter than brownies. They use brown sugar and often have a vanilla flavor. Brownies are chocolate-based and denser. Blondies have a chewy texture, while brownies can be fudgy.
How do I know when my blondies are done baking?
Check the edges for a light golden color. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it has a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Avoid wet batter on the toothpick.
Can I make these without eggs?
Yes, you can use substitutes like applesauce or flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This creates a great binding agent.
What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?
You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. Try adding a bit of almond extract for a twist. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can balance the sweetness nicely.
This article covers how to make delicious blondies. We looked at the key ingredients, simple steps, and handy tips. Remember to mix gently and check for doneness. You can customize your blondies with chocolate chips or nuts. Proper storage helps keep them fresh. With these ideas, you'll bake tasty treats that delight everyone. Enjoy your baking adventure!
