Looking for a sweet treat that pairs perfectly with a cozy evening? Snickerdoodle blondies are the answer! These chewy, cinnamon-spiced delights are not only easy to make but also bring a warm flavor to any gathering. I’ll guide you through simple steps to bake blondies that are just right for sharing—or savoring all on your own. Get ready to discover the perfect blend of sweetness and spice!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of cinnamon and nutmeg gives these blondies a warm, comforting taste reminiscent of traditional snickerdoodles.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for both novice bakers and experienced ones looking for a simple treat.
- Customizable: You can easily add in your favorite mix-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips, to make these blondies your own.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 20 squares in a batch, these blondies are great for gatherings, parties, or just a sweet snack at home.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Gathering your ingredients is key for great snickerdoodle blondies. You start with unsalted butter. It gives the right creamy base. Brown sugar and granulated sugar add sweetness. The mix of these sugars gives a nice flavor.
Next, you need eggs for binding. They help the blondies rise and stay soft. Don’t forget the vanilla extract; it adds that warm, sweet note. Flour is the main structure. Baking powder and baking soda help them puff up. A touch of salt enhances all the flavors.
The cinnamon is the star here. It brings that classic snickerdoodle taste. Nutmeg is optional but can add warmth. If you like a twist, white chocolate chips are a great mix-in. They melt beautifully and add creaminess.
Optional Toppings and Mix-ins
- Sugar and cinnamon mixture for sprinkling
- Ideas for additional mix-ins
To finish, sprinkle a mix of sugar and cinnamon on top. This gives a delightful crunch. You can also add nuts or other chips for fun flavors. Think about mini marshmallows or dark chocolate for variety. Experiment with what you love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for even baking.
2. Next, grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. You can also use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of melted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth.
Combining Ingredients
1. Now, add 2 large eggs to the butter-sugar mix, one at a time. Mix well after each egg.
2. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This adds great flavor.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. If you want a hint of spice, add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.
Baking the Blondies
1. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. If you're using white chocolate chips, fold them into the batter now. This is optional, but they add a nice touch.
3. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
4. To get that snickerdoodle flavor, sprinkle a mix of 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut them into squares to serve.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To get the best texture in your snickerdoodle blondies, avoid overmixing the batter. When you mix the dry and wet ingredients, blend just until combined. This keeps the blondies soft and chewy. Overmixing can make them tough.
Another key tip is to ensure even baking. Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F. Use a 9x13-inch pan to allow even heat flow. If you notice uneven browning, rotate the pan halfway through baking.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost the flavor, consider adding a pinch of allspice or ginger. These spices can add warmth and depth. You can also try swapping in brown sugar for granulated sugar in part of the mix. This change adds a rich caramel taste.
If you want to replace any ingredients, applesauce can be a great swap for eggs. It keeps your blondies moist. You can also use gluten-free flour if needed. Just be sure to use a blend that has xanthan gum for structure.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key for these blondies. Dust them with a bit of cinnamon sugar right before serving. This adds a nice touch. Serve them warm or at room temperature on a colorful plate.
For drinks, pair your blondies with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. You can also add toppings like whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a special treat.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Bring your eggs to room temperature before adding them to the batter for a smoother texture and better incorporation.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined to maintain a soft, chewy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking the blondies at the 20-minute mark; they should be lightly golden and a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Enhance Flavor with Spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger for an extra layer of flavor in addition to the cinnamon.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the taste of snickerdoodle blondies easily. Try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts. They add a nice crunch and flavor. Chopped nuts bring a new texture. You can also use different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate can change the whole taste. Each option gives you a new treat to enjoy!
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free blondies, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that works well in baking. This keeps the texture nice and chewy. For vegan options, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water for each egg. Use vegan butter instead of regular butter. These simple swaps make your blondies fit many diets!
Seasonal Twists
To make your blondies festive, add seasonal spices. A pinch of ginger or cloves can spice things up for fall. In winter, try adding peppermint extract for a fresh twist. You can also use seasonal fruits like pumpkin or apple. Top your blondies with cream cheese frosting for a sweet finish. This makes each bite feel special and unique!
Storage Info
How to Store Blondies
To keep your snickerdoodle blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This will protect them from air and moisture. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. If stored this way, they stay soft for several days. Keep them at room temperature for the best taste.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the blondies cool completely. Next, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped blondies in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you want one, just take it out and let it thaw.
Reheating Tips
To enjoy your blondies warm again, use your oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes. If using a microwave, warm them for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back their chewy texture and delicious flavor.
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I know when the blondies are done baking? The blondies are done when the edges are golden. Insert a toothpick in the middle. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready.
Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe? Yes, you can use margarine. It will change the flavor slightly, but it works well.
What should I do if I don’t have all-purpose flour? You can use a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use cake flour, but it may change the texture.
How can I make these blondies more chewy or cakey? For chewier blondies, add more brown sugar. For cakey blondies, add an extra egg or a bit of baking powder.
Troubleshooting Issues
What to do if they come out too dry? If the blondies are dry, they may have baked too long. Next time, check them a few minutes earlier. You can also add a bit more butter or brown sugar.
Fixing blondies that didn't rise properly. If your blondies don’t rise, it could be due to old baking powder or baking soda. Make sure your leavening agents are fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
What can I use instead of eggs? You can use applesauce or mashed bananas. Use 1/4 cup of either for each egg.
Alternatives for granulated sugar in the recipe. You can use coconut sugar or honey. Reduce the other liquids if using honey.
This blog post covered a simple blondie recipe packed with flavor and options. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your bake. I also shared ideas for variations and storage methods to keep your treats fresh.
Enjoy creating these blondies, and don't hesitate to personalize them. Baking is about fun and creativity, so let your taste lead the way! Happy baking!
