When I was a kid, nothing thrilled me more than opening a bag of those brightly frosted Circus Animal Cookies. The whimsical shapes, the crunchy frosting, and those cheerful sprinkles made every bite feel like a mini celebration. Recently, I found myself reminiscing about that joy and decided to channel it into something new: Frosted Animal Cookie Blondies. These buttery, chewy bars pack all the nostalgia of the classic cookies into every delicious bite. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family treat, or just because you love dessert (who doesn’t?), this recipe will make you the star baker of the day.
Why You Will Love Frosted Animal Cookie Blondies
Our Frosted Animal Cookie Blondies are a whimsical twist on traditional blondies—perfectly chewy, sweet, and sprinkled with fun!
- Packed with nostalgia: Perfect for anyone who grew up loving Circus Animal Cookies.
- Soft and chewy texture: These bars strike the perfect balance between buttery blondies and cookie crunch.
- Fun and festive: The vibrant sprinkles and cookie pieces make them a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients Notes: Frosted Animal Cookie Blondies
Each ingredient in our Frosted Animal Cookie Blondies contributes to their delightful taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butter (¾ cup, salted): Adds richness and ensures a soft, moist blondie base.
- Sugar (1 cup): Provides the right level of sweetness to complement the cookies.
- Eggs (3): Essential for binding the ingredients and giving the bars their chewy texture.
- Vanilla Extract (1½ tsp): Enhances the overall flavor and complements the cookies.
- Flour (2 cups): Creates the structure of the blondies.
- Baking Powder (1 tsp): Adds just enough lift for a soft texture without making the bars cakey.
- Circus Animal Cookies (2 cups): The star of the show! Chop them up for pockets of crunch and bursts of flavor.
- Sprinkles (¼ cup, plus more for topping): Adds that extra layer of fun and color.
Ingredient Tip: Can’t find Circus Animal Cookies? Substitute with your favorite frosted sugar cookies for a similar taste.
Kitchen Equipment Needed: Frosted Animal Cookie Blondies
Before diving in, make sure you have these tools ready:
- Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
- Sharp knife for slicing
How to Make Frosted Animal Cookie Blondies
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your blondies won’t stick.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer or with an electric hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until creamy and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. Then add the vanilla extract and mix for another 30 seconds until the batter is smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the wet mixture. Mix until the dough forms a thick batter.
5. Fold in Cookies and Sprinkles
Gently fold in the chopped Circus Animal Cookies and ¼ cup of sprinkles. This is where the magic happens!
6. Prepare the Batter
Pour the batter into the greased baking dish, using a spoon to spread it evenly. Top with extra cookie pieces and sprinkles for a festive look.
7. Bake
Bake the blondies for 25–30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Slice
Allow the blondies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice them into squares and serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: These blondies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of white chocolate.
- Storage: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped almonds or pecans for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in white chocolate chips alongside the cookies for an even sweeter treat.
Helpful Notes
- Be sure to use room-temperature butter for easier creaming with the sugar.
- Overbaking can result in dry blondies. Check for doneness at the 25-minute mark.
- For cleaner cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Christina Tosi: Always add a pinch of salt, even in sweet recipes, to balance flavors. (The salted butter here does the trick!)
- Duff Goldman: Chill your blondies before cutting to get clean, professional-looking squares.
- Claire Saffitz: Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor—it makes a big difference!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, just add a pinch of salt to the dough to balance the sweetness.
2. What’s the best way to chop the Circus Animal Cookies?
A rough chop works best—aim for pieces about the size of a dime for even distribution.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use two 9×13-inch pans or one larger baking sheet, and adjust the baking time slightly.
4. Can I use other types of cookies?
Absolutely! Frosted sugar cookies or even chocolate chip cookies would work as substitutes.
5. How do I prevent the sprinkles from melting?
Use high-quality nonpareils or jimmies, as they hold up better during baking.
Conclusion
Frosted Animal Cookie Blondies are a fun, flavorful, and festive dessert that will transport you back to your childhood with every bite. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!