Description
Chewy Cinnamon Raisin Blondies
A heavenly combination of chewy texture, cinnamon warmth, and rich frosting. These blondies are bursting with sweet raisins and topped with a decadent cream cheese layer for the ultimate indulgence. A must-try for dessert lovers!
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 ½ cups brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 cup raisins
For the Frosting:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a pan.
Mix melted butter with brown sugar, then stir in eggs and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Mix with the wet ingredients.
Fold in the raisins, then pour batter into the pan.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely.
Beat butter and cream cheese together, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Frost, cut into squares, and enjoy!
#CinnamonBites
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect blondies every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until completely combined and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined—do not overmix. Carefully fold in the raisins. Spread the thick batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Serving Suggestions
These blondies are a versatile treat. Serve them slightly chilled for a firmer frosting texture, or at room temperature for maximum chewiness. For a special presentation, dust the frosted squares with a light sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee, hot tea, or a glass of cold milk. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Mix wet ingredients (butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla). Combine dry ingredients (flour, cinnamon, baking powder, salt). Fold together, add raisins, and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely. For the frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter, then mix in powdered sugar and vanilla. Frost the cooled blondies, cut into squares, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use golden raisins instead of regular raisins? Absolutely. Golden raisins will provide a slightly milder, fruitier flavor and a beautiful color contrast.
How should I store these blondies? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days due to the cream cheese frosting. They can also be frozen (unfrosted) for up to 3 months.
Why did my blondies turn out cakey instead of chewy? This is often due to overmixing the batter after adding the flour, which develops too much gluten. Mix until just combined for the best chewy texture.
Can I omit the frosting? Yes, the blondies are delicious on their own. You could also sprinkle the top with a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for a simpler finish.
My raisins sank to the bottom. How can I prevent this? Toss your raisins in a tablespoon of the measured flour before folding them into the batter. This light coating helps suspend them throughout.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid using hot, freshly melted butter in the wet mix; let it cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs.
- Do not overbake. Remove them when the center is just set for the ideal chewy texture.
- Ensure the blondies are completely cool before applying the frosting, or it will melt and become messy.
- Use properly softened cream cheese and butter for the frosting to avoid a lumpy consistency.
Conclusion
These Chewy Cinnamon Raisin Blondies offer the perfect balance of comforting spice, sweet fruit, and rich cream cheese frosting. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can easily create this impressive and indulgent dessert. They are sure to become a beloved treat for any occasion, combining simplicity with decadent flavor in every bite.
