Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Healthy Twist on a Classic

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Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Healthy Twist on a Classic

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. That sweet, spicy scent instantly transports me back to weekend mornings at my grandmother’s house. But what if you could enjoy those same nostalgic flavors in a healthier, paleo-friendly package? These Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies deliver all the warm, gooey goodness of traditional cinnamon rolls but with clean, wholesome ingredients that won’t leave you with a sugar crash.

Why You’ll Love These Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies

These aren’t just any blondies – they’re a game-changer for anyone craving something sweet while maintaining a paleo lifestyle:

  • Genuinely Healthy: Made with almond flour and natural sweeteners instead of processed ingredients
  • Perfect Texture: Soft, chewy centers with slightly crisp edges – just like traditional blondies
  • Cinnamon Roll Flavor: All the comfort of classic cinnamon rolls without the guilt
  • Easy to Make: Simple mixing method with no fancy equipment required
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Store beautifully for grab-and-go treats all week
  • Family Approved: Even non-paleo eaters will request these again and again

Whether you’re strictly paleo or just looking for a healthier dessert option, these blondies strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Blondie Base:

  • 2 cups blanched almond flour
  • ¼ cup coconut flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ⅓ cup coconut oil, melted
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon coconut flour

For the Optional Glaze:

  • ¼ cup coconut butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1-2 tablespoons almond milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment with a small amount of coconut oil.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and sea salt until well combined. Break up any clumps of almond flour with your fingers for a smoother batter.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated. The mixture should look glossy and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Make the Blondie Batter

Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – this can make your blondies tough instead of tender. The batter will be somewhat thick but still spreadable.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and coconut flour until it forms a smooth paste. This mixture will create those gorgeous cinnamon swirls that give these blondies their signature flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and Swirl

Spread about ⅔ of the blondie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Drizzle the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining blondie batter on top. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the layers together, creating a marbled effect. Don’t overmix – you want distinct swirls of cinnamon throughout.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake – paleo baked goods can dry out quickly!

Step 8: Cool Completely

Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to remove or cut them. This is crucial for achieving the perfect texture – cutting too early will result in crumbly blondies.

Step 9: Add the Optional Glaze

If using the glaze, whisk together all glaze ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency with additional almond milk if needed. Drizzle over the cooled blondies before cutting into 16 squares.

Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Healthy Twist on a Classic
Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Healthy Twist on a Classic

Pro Tips for Success

  • Room Temperature Eggs: This helps everything incorporate more smoothly and creates a better texture.
  • Measure Almond Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly with the measuring cup, which can compact it.
  • Don’t Rush the Cooling: These blondies need time to set up properly – patience results in perfect squares instead of a crumbly mess.
  • Coconut Oil Consistency: Make sure your coconut oil is melted but not hot when adding it to the batter.
  • Cinnamon Quality Matters: Invest in high-quality, fresh cinnamon for the best flavor – it’s the star ingredient here!

Nutritional Information

These Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies aren’t just delicious – they’re also packed with nutrition compared to traditional desserts:

  • Calories: Approximately 165 per blondie
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 13g (primarily healthy fats from nuts)
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g (from natural sources)

The almond flour base provides protein and healthy fats, while the natural sweeteners won’t spike blood sugar the way refined sugar does. These blondies are:

  • Grain-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Dairy-free
  • Refined sugar-free
  • Rich in nutrients

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or advance preparation for gatherings:

Counter Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The texture is best this way for immediate enjoyment.

Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing: These blondies freeze exceptionally well! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the batter up to a day ahead and refrigerate it, then bring to room temperature for about 20 minutes before swirling with the cinnamon mixture and baking.

Serving Suggestions

While these Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies are absolutely delicious on their own, consider these serving ideas to take them to the next level:

  • Pair with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an extra-special dessert
  • Serve slightly warmed with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream
  • Enjoy alongside your morning coffee for a breakfast treat
  • Cut into smaller squares for a party dessert platter
  • Pack in lunchboxes for a healthier sweet option

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the almond flour with another type of flour?

While almond flour is essential for the signature texture of these blondies, you could try a paleo-friendly blend of cashew flour and tapioca starch for a similar result. Coconut flour alone won’t work as a direct substitute as it absorbs much more moisture.

How can I make these blondies vegan?

Replace the eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons water, left to gel for 15 minutes) for a vegan version. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

My blondies came out dry – what happened?

Paleo baked goods are particularly sensitive to overbaking. Even a few extra minutes can dry them out. Next time, try reducing the baking time by 2-3 minutes or check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Can I reduce the maple syrup for less sugar?

Yes! You can reduce the maple syrup to ¼ cup in the base and still achieve good results. You might want to add an extra tablespoon of coconut oil to maintain moisture.

Why These Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies Stand Above the Rest

What makes this recipe truly special is how it captures the essence of cinnamon rolls – that warm, spicy-sweet filling and soft, satisfying texture – while staying true to paleo principles. Unlike many paleo desserts that feel like compromises, these blondies stand proudly on their own merits.

The slightly crisp edges give way to a tender center, while the cinnamon swirl creates pockets of intense flavor that mimic the best parts of a traditional cinnamon roll. The optional glaze adds that perfect touch of sweetness that makes you close your eyes with each bite.

Best of all, you can enjoy these blondies knowing they’re made with real, wholesome ingredients that nourish your body rather than processed flours and sugars that leave you feeling sluggish.

A Final Note

These Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies represent the best of both worlds – the nostalgic comfort of a classic dessert with the clean ingredients of modern, health-conscious eating. Whether you follow a paleo lifestyle or simply appreciate desserts made with natural ingredients, these blondies deserve a place in your recipe collection.

The next time you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to derail your healthy eating habits, whip up a batch of these blondies. Your taste buds – and your body – will thank you for this delicious, nourishing treat. And don’t be surprised when friends and family request the recipe after their first bite of these Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Healthy Twist on a Classic!

Have you tried these paleo cinnamon roll blondies yet? Share your experience in the comments below, or tag us in your photos if you make them at home!

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Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Healthy Twist on a Classic

Paleo Cinnamon Roll Blondies: Healthy Twist on a Classic


  • Author: Isabella Baute
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant Mediterranean salad combining crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta, and a bright lemon dressing for a flavorful and nutritious dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large English cucumber, diced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted
  • 6 oz feta cheese, cubed (about 3/4 cup)
  • Optional: 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/4 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and prepare all vegetables: dice the cucumber and bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
  2. Chop fresh herbs: parsley, mint, and oregano.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and chickpeas (if using).
  5. Add the fresh herbs and most of the dressing, then toss gently to coat.
  6. Carefully fold in the cubed feta. Drizzle with the remaining dressing before serving.

Notes

  • To reduce the sharpness of red onion, soak the slices in ice water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
  • Use high-quality olive oil and authentic Greek feta for the best flavor.
  • If prepping ahead, store dressing and salad components separately to preserve freshness.
  • Refresh leftovers with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
  • Store dressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: N/A
  • Sodium: N/A
  • Fat: 18
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Unsaturated Fat: N/A
  • Trans Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: 8
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 6
  • Cholesterol: N/A

Keywords: mediterranean salad, mediterranean salad recipe, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, summer salad, no bake salad, easy mediterranean recipe

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