If you’re a fan of the classic snickerdoodle cookie and love the rich, creamy texture of blondies, then you’re in for a treat with these Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Blondies. This delightful fusion combines the best of both worlds, offering a moist, chewy base with a tangy cream cheese swirl and a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar on top. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something sweet.
Ingredients
Let’s gather all the essentials to create these delectable Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Blondies. We’ll start with the snickerdoodle crust, move on to the creamy cheesecake filling, and finally, make the irresistible cinnamon sugar swirl.
Snickerdoodle Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Equipment Needed
To create these irresistibly delicious Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Blondies, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand ensures a smooth baking process and the best outcome for your dessert.
- Mixing Bowls: You will need a few different sizes for mixing the various components of the blondies.
- Electric Mixer: An electric mixer, either hand-held or stand mixer, will help you achieve a smooth cream cheese filling.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial, so make sure you have both cups and spoons.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Pan: For baking the blondies. Make sure it’s non-stick or lined with parchment paper.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula works great for scraping the batter from the bowls and spreading it evenly in the pan.
- Whisk: For combining the dry ingredients.
- Microplane: For zesting if you decide to add a citrus zest to the batter for an extra flavor dimension.
- Cooling Rack: Essential for allowing the blondies to cool evenly after baking.
- Knife: A sharp knife will be needed to cut the baked blondies into squares.
Using these tools will make your baking process efficient and enjoyable, allowing you to focus more on perfecting the flavors and textures of your Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Blondies.
Directions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Blondies. Each step is designed to capture the delightful flavors and textures of this irresistible dessert.
Prep
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- Gather Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready to go.
Assemble the Layers
- Make Snickerdoodle Base:
- In a medium mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of unsalted butter (room temperature) and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Spread Base: Evenly spread the snickerdoodle dough into the prepared baking pan using a spatula.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling:
- In another mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with ¼ cup of granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, continuing to beat until creamy.
- Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the snickerdoodle base and gently swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
- Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake the Blondies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the blondies cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack.
- Serve: Once cooled, lift the blondies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Blondies
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients, especially eggs, butter, and cream cheese, ensures smooth blending and consistent baking. Allow your ingredients to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start mixing.
Properly Measure Flour
Accurate flour measurement is crucial. Use a kitchen scale for best results, or fluff the flour with a spoon, lightly spoon it into your measuring cup, and level it off with a knife. Avoid packing the flour to prevent dense blondies.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
To maintain the blondies’ soft and chewy texture, mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough, dry blondies due to the development of gluten in the flour.
Layer Evenly
When spreading the snickerdoodle base and cream cheese filling, use a spatula to ensure even layers. This prevents uneven baking and ensures each bite has a balance of flavors.
Bake Until Just Set
Bake the blondies until they are just set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can dry out the blondies. Start checking a few minutes before the lowest baking time suggested.
Allow to Cool Completely
Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting. This ensures clean edges and allows the flavors to meld. For best results, refrigerate the cooled blondies for an hour before slicing.
Store Properly
Store your snickerdoodle cream cheese blondies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months.
Serving Tips
When it’s time to serve these delightful Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Blondies, there are a few strategies I like to use to make the experience even more enjoyable. Here are my favorite serving tips to ensure each bite is as delectable as the last:
- Cutting Perfect Squares: Allow the blondies to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly, making it easier to cut clean and even squares without crumbling.
- Serving Temperature: These blondies are best served at room temperature. If stored in the refrigerator, let them sit out for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance their flavor and texture.
- Pairing with Beverages: A glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee complements the rich, sweet flavors of the blondies perfectly. The creaminess of the milk or the bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness.
- Garnishing Ideas: For a festive touch, dust the tops of the blondies with a bit of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon before serving. It adds a nice visual appeal and a slight extra sweetness.
- Plating Suggestions: Arrange the blondies on a decorative platter or an elegant serving tray. If you want to be fancy, you can place each blondie in a brightly colored cupcake liner to make them look more inviting and gift-like.
- Storage After Serving: If there are any leftovers (which is rare in my home), store the remaining blondies in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week to maintain freshness.
These tips should help elevate your snickerdoodle cream cheese blondies, making them not just a treat to eat but a treat to present to your family and friends.
How to Store
To keep your Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Blondies fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines for storing in the fridge or freezer.
Storing in the Fridge
Place the cooled blondies in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and to prevent the cream cheese swirl from spoiling. They should keep well for up to a week. For the best flavor and texture, let the blondies come to room temperature before serving.
Storing in the Freezer
If you’d like to keep your blondies for a longer period, you can freeze them. First, cut the cooled blondies into squares. Layer the squares separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking in an airtight, freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the blondies in the refrigerator overnight and bring them to room temperature before serving to revive their original texture and taste.
Conclusion
Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Blondies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that elevate any dessert table. With a moist base, creamy filling, and a cinnamon sugar topping, they’re sure to impress. Remember to use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing for the best results. Proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor, whether you keep them in the fridge or freezer. Try serving them at room temperature with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a truly satisfying treat. Happy baking!