Homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch Recipe | Crispy, Sweet, Easy DIY Breakfast Cereal for Kids & Adults

Cinnamon Toast Crunch is a beloved breakfast cereal known for its crispy texture, sweet cinnamon flavor, and irresistible crunch. While store-bought versions are convenient, making this cereal at home allows full control over ingredients, sweetness levels, and texture. Homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch is perfect for families, children, or anyone who enjoys a flavorful, crunchy breakfast treat without preservatives or artificial additives. This recipe combines flour, sugar, cinnamon, and butter to recreate the iconic flavor while keeping the preparation simple enough for any home baker.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can enjoy it as a classic breakfast cereal with milk, sprinkle it over yogurt or ice cream, or eat it as a crunchy snack. By making it from scratch, you can adjust sweetness, control cinnamon intensity, and even experiment with gluten-free flours or alternative sweeteners. The homemade version is fresher, more aromatic, and customizable, while retaining the nostalgic taste that has made Cinnamon Toast Crunch a household favorite for decades.

Beyond taste, this cereal also provides nutritional value when made with thoughtful ingredients. Using moderate sugar, butter or oil, and optional whole-grain flour can enhance fiber content and provide essential vitamins and minerals. Understanding the function of each ingredient—from cinnamon for flavor and antioxidants to flour for structure—ensures a perfect, crunchy cereal that stays fresh for days.

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What Is Cinnamon Toast Crunch?

Cinnamon Toast Crunch is a crunchy breakfast cereal originally introduced as a sweetened wheat cereal with a distinctive cinnamon-sugar coating. The signature feature is the combination of crisp texture and sweet cinnamon flavor, making it one of the most popular cereals for kids and adults alike. The homemade version mimics this texture and flavor using basic pantry ingredients.

The cereal is typically made by rolling thin sheets of dough, cutting them into small squares, baking until crisp, and coating with cinnamon-sugar. Its appeal lies not only in sweetness but also in texture contrast: a firm, crunchy exterior with a slightly tender interior that maintains crispness even in milk. Homemade versions allow customization, including variations in sweetness, spice intensity, and add-ins such as chocolate, nuts, or oats.

Cinnamon itself adds antioxidants and aroma, while the base flour contributes carbohydrates for energy. By making it at home, you can reduce refined sugar and incorporate healthier alternatives, making it a breakfast cereal that combines flavor, nostalgia, and mindful eating.

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Nutrient Breakdown (Approximate, per 1-cup serving)

Explanation:
Using moderate sugar and butter while maintaining the cinnamon-sugar coating ensures delicious flavor while minimizing unnecessary calories. Optional substitutions like whole-grain flour, coconut sugar, or plant-based oils can slightly enhance nutrition. The homemade version provides a balance of carbohydrates, fat, and protein, making it a suitable breakfast or snack choice.

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Main Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Exact Ingredient List (Makes ~4 Cups of Cereal)

• 1 1/2 cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional toppings: additional cinnamon-sugar, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts

Total Recipe Yield

• Cereal Volume: ~4 cups (12 servings)
• Total Batter Weight: ~400–450 g
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Serving Size: ~1/3 cup cereal (per serving ~150 kcal)

Explanation of Each Ingredient

All-Purpose Flour

Flour forms the base of the cereal dough and provides structure. It ensures the cereal squares hold shape during baking while producing a firm but crispy texture. Using all-purpose flour gives a balanced consistency, neither too dense nor too fragile. Alternative flours, like whole wheat or oat flour, can be used for slightly denser, more nutritious cereal.

Baking Powder

Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, creating small air pockets during baking. This ensures the cereal remains light and crispy, rather than dense. Proper mixing ensures even distribution throughout the dough for uniform texture.

Salt

Salt enhances flavor and balances sweetness. Even a small amount brings out the aromatic notes of cinnamon and deepens the overall flavor profile of the cereal.

Ground Cinnamon

Cinnamon is the defining ingredient of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. It adds warmth, aroma, and subtle sweetness. Cinnamon also provides antioxidants and enhances the flavor of sugar without increasing caloric content.

Granulated Sugar

Sugar provides sweetness and contributes to the caramelized texture on the cereal’s surface. It works with cinnamon to create the signature cinnamon-sugar coating. Using granulated sugar ensures even melting and crisping during baking.

Unsalted Butter

Butter adds richness, flavor, and helps bind the dough. Melted butter creates a smooth batter and contributes to the crispy, slightly caramelized texture of the baked cereal.

Milk

Milk adds moisture to the dough, allowing it to hold together without becoming sticky. It also helps create a uniform texture and adds slight richness. Plant-based alternatives work equally well.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla enhances all other flavors, especially cinnamon and sugar. It provides aroma and subtle sweetness, making the cereal taste more complex and bakery-style.

Optional Toppings

Additional cinnamon-sugar sprinkled on top adds extra sweetness and visual appeal. Cocoa powder or nuts can provide variation and extra flavor without significantly affecting texture.

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How to Prepare Homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Proper preheating ensures the cereal bakes evenly, while the liner prevents sticking and allows easy removal of crispy cereal squares.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and sugar. Whisking ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices. Uniformly mixed dry ingredients prevent uneven flavor or texture in the final cereal.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Ensure the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. Wet ingredients provide moisture and binding properties, allowing the flour mixture to form a cohesive dough.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until a stiff dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can develop gluten and make the cereal tough. The dough should be firm but pliable, easy to roll out without sticking excessively.

Step 5: Roll Out and Cut into Squares

Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll it out to approximately 1/8-inch thickness. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut into small squares, roughly 1/2-inch to 1-inch in size. Uniform size ensures even baking and consistent crunch across all pieces.

Step 6: Bake the Cereal

Transfer the squares to the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Rotate the pan halfway through to prevent uneven baking. Keep a close eye on the cereal toward the end, as thin pieces can burn quickly.

Step 7: Cool and Optional Coating

Remove the baked cereal from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet or wire rack. Optional: Toss the cooled cereal in additional cinnamon-sugar for extra sweetness and flavor. Cooling ensures the cereal achieves maximum crunch and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Step 8: Store the Cereal

Once cooled, store the Cinnamon Toast Crunch in an airtight container at room temperature. Proper storage maintains crispness for up to two weeks. For longer storage, the cereal can be frozen in a sealed container for up to two months.

Healthy Habits When Enjoying Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Cinnamon Toast Crunch is a sweet, indulgent cereal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet with mindful habits. Portion control is key: instead of consuming large bowls at once, measure a serving size of 1/3 to 1/2 cup to enjoy the flavor while moderating sugar intake. Pairing the cereal with protein-rich foods such as milk, Greek yogurt, or a handful of nuts can increase satiety and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Another healthy habit is mindful sugar management. While homemade cereal allows control over added sugar, reducing sugar slightly or using alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup can make this treat more nutritious. Additionally, incorporating whole-grain flours can boost fiber content, supporting digestion and prolonged energy release. Baking at home gives you full control over ingredients, so you can make Cinnamon Toast Crunch more wholesome without sacrificing flavor.

Balancing sweet treats with an active lifestyle also helps maintain overall health. Regular exercise and daily movement, such as walking or stretching, help offset occasional indulgences. Drinking water before and during breakfast ensures hydration and may reduce overeating. Finally, practicing mindful eating by savoring each bite and eating slowly increases enjoyment and prevents unnecessary consumption.

Cinnamon Toast Crunch can also be incorporated into snack boards, topping for oatmeal, or yogurt parfaits, creating satisfying portion-controlled indulgences. By combining these strategies, you can enjoy this crispy, cinnamon-sweet cereal guilt-free while supporting healthy habits.

Variations of Homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch

1. Chocolate Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Adding cocoa powder transforms traditional Cinnamon Toast Crunch into a chocolate-flavored breakfast treat. The subtle bitterness of cocoa balances the sweetness of sugar, creating a rich, indulgent flavor. Chocolate cinnamon cereal appeals to children and adults alike. Its deep brown color makes it visually striking for serving in bowls or parfaits. This variation maintains the same crisp texture as the classic version.

How to Prepare

Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients, whisking well to combine. Bake the cereal as instructed, monitoring closely for doneness. Optional: sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon-sugar on top after cooling. The cocoa adds depth of flavor without overwhelming the cinnamon. Store in an airtight container to preserve crispness.

2. Nutty Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Incorporating finely chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans adds crunch and protein. Nuts complement the sweet cinnamon flavor, enhancing both texture and nutritional value. This variation is ideal for breakfast or snack time, providing extra satiety. Nuts also contribute healthy fats, fiber, and micronutrients. The cereal retains its crispiness while offering a satisfying bite.

How to Prepare

Fold 1/3 cup finely chopped nuts into the dough after combining wet and dry ingredients. Cut and bake the squares as usual. The nuts may toast slightly during baking, enhancing flavor. Allow the cereal to cool completely to maintain crispness. Store in a sealed container to prevent moisture from softening the nuts.

3. Gluten-Free Cinnamon Toast Crunch

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This variation maintains crispness while accommodating dietary restrictions. Gluten-free flours, such as rice flour or almond flour blends, can slightly alter texture but remain delicious. Cinnamon and sugar retain the familiar flavor, making it nearly indistinguishable from the classic version. Perfect for family breakfasts or gifting to gluten-sensitive individuals.

How to Prepare

Replace the flour in the recipe with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Mix and roll dough carefully, as gluten-free dough is slightly more fragile. Bake at the same temperature, watching for browning. Cool completely to allow the cereal to crisp. Optional: sprinkle additional cinnamon-sugar for extra flavor.

4. Spiced Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Adding warm spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger enhances flavor complexity. Spiced cereal has a cozy, aromatic profile, perfect for fall or winter breakfasts. The subtle spice layers complement the sweetness of cinnamon-sugar. This variation is suitable for adults seeking a more sophisticated flavor. It retains the classic crunch while introducing new aromas.

How to Prepare

Add 1/4 teaspoon each of ground nutmeg and ginger to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly before combining with wet ingredients. Cut, bake, and cool the cereal as directed. Adjust spices to taste for a milder or more intense flavor. Store in an airtight container to maintain crisp texture.

5. Honey Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Replacing part of the sugar with honey adds natural sweetness and subtle floral notes. Honey also enhances crisping, creating a light caramelized flavor. This variation is slightly stickier than the classic version but remains crunchy once cooled. Honey adds trace minerals and antioxidants compared to refined sugar. It’s ideal for those seeking a more natural sweetener in breakfast cereal.

How to Prepare

Substitute 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey in the wet mixture. Mix thoroughly to integrate honey into the dough. Roll, cut, and bake as usual, keeping an eye on browning. Allow cooling to set crispness. Optionally, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar for extra flavor.

6. Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Adding mini chocolate chips transforms the cereal into a decadent treat for kids or dessert bowls. The chocolate melts slightly during baking, forming pockets of gooey sweetness. Chocolate chips complement cinnamon flavor without overpowering it. This variation maintains crispness and provides an indulgent twist. Perfect for snacks, desserts, or breakfast with milk.

How to Prepare

Fold 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips into the dough after mixing wet and dry ingredients. Cut and bake squares as usual. Monitor baking to prevent chocolate from burning. Cool completely before storing to preserve crisp texture. Chocolate adds flavor and visual appeal.

Final Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Toast Crunch

• Use parchment paper or silicone mats for even baking and easy removal.
• Roll dough thinly and uniformly for consistent crispness.
• Avoid overcrowding baking sheets to prevent sticking or uneven baking.
• Cool fully to achieve maximum crunch before storing.
• Store in airtight containers to maintain crispness for up to two weeks.
• Experiment with flavor variations, toppings, or mix-ins for personalized cereal.
• Homemade cereal is fresher, customizable, and free from preservatives.