Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake

Creamy, indulgent, and packed with nostalgic cereal flavor, Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that blends the velvety richness of traditional cheesecake with the irresistible crunch and spice of a beloved breakfast treat. This recipe transforms your favorite childhood cereal into a sophisticated, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for something extra special. From the cinnamon-infused crust to the smooth, spiced filling and the crisp, buttery topping, every bite offers layers of texture and flavor that will leave everyone coming back for more.

The magic of this cheesecake lies in the balance of rich, creamy filling and the playful twist of using cereal as both the crust and the topping. The base is made with crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch blended with cinnamon, sugar, and butter for a deeply flavorful foundation. The filling is everything you love about cheesecake—smooth, tangy, and sweet—with a warm cinnamon note that enhances every bite. Finished with a crunchy, buttery topping made from more cereal and a hint of dry milk for a bakery-style touch, this dessert is anything but ordinary. It’s easy to make ahead and even easier to devour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Twist – Combines classic cheesecake with the nostalgic flavor of Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
2. Perfect Texture – Creamy filling, crunchy crust, and crispy topping in every bite.
3. Crowd Favorite – Ideal for parties, potlucks, or special occasions—guaranteed to impress.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for preparing in advance and chilling overnight.
5. Customizable – Can be adapted with different cereals or flavor accents.

Ingredients

Crust

• Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Kosher salt
• Unsalted butter (melted)

Filling

• Cream cheese (full fat, softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Large eggs (room temperature)
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Kosher salt
• Heavy whipping cream

Topping

• Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
• Nonfat dry milk powder
• Granulated sugar
• Kosher salt
• Unsalted butter

Variations

• Cereal Swap: Try using Golden Grahams, Honey Nut Cheerios, or graham crackers for a different flavor twist.
• Spiced Up: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for added warmth.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Finish with a white or milk chocolate drizzle for extra decadence.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin to create individual servings for parties.
• Fruit Topping: Add sliced bananas or caramelized apples for a breakfast-dream dessert combo.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a food processor, pulse the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal until finely crushed. Add granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

Step 3

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then allow to cool.

Step 4

Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 5

Add the sugar and mix until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed and scraping the bowl as needed.

Step 6

Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Add heavy cream and mix just until smooth—do not overbeat.

Step 7

Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.

Step 8

Bake in a water bath or on a middle rack for 55–65 minutes, until edges are set but the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Step 9

Remove and cool completely at room temperature, then chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 10

For the topping, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add cereal, dry milk powder, sugar, and salt. Cook until golden and crisp, about 5–7 minutes. Cool completely.

Step 11

Sprinkle the cooled topping over the cheesecake just before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture and flavor.
• Don’t overmix the filling—this prevents cracks and keeps the texture smooth.
• Bake in a water bath to help maintain moisture and reduce surface cracking.
• Let cheesecake cool slowly in the oven, then fully chill before slicing.
• Add the topping right before serving to keep it crispy.

How to Serve

Slice the cheesecake with a warm, clean knife for neat cuts. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel for an added treat. It makes a stunning centerpiece for dessert tables and pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or milk.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the topping separate to maintain its crunch.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake (without topping) tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best served chilled, but if desired, bring to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before eating. Do not microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

It’s not recommended, as it affects texture and richness. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best results.

2. What if I don’t have dry milk powder?

You can skip it in the topping—it adds flavor, but the topping will still be delicious without it.

3. Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?

Yes, but a springform pan makes it easier to remove and serve clean slices.

4. How do I crush the cereal evenly?

Use a food processor or place it in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.

5. Why is my cheesecake cracking?

Overmixing, skipping the water bath, or cooling too quickly can cause cracks.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely—cheesecake tastes even better the next day. Add the topping just before serving.

7. Can I bake this without a water bath?

Yes, but a water bath helps maintain even baking and prevents cracks.

8. How long does it need to chill?

At least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture and flavor.

9. Can I freeze slices with the topping on?

It’s best to freeze without the topping to keep it crispy.

10. Can I use another cereal for the topping?

Yes—Golden Grahams, Honey Bunches of Oats, or crushed graham crackers work well too.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake is a dreamy fusion of classic comfort and playful flavor, delivering everything you love about cheesecake with a nostalgic twist. Its creamy texture, spiced notes, and irresistible crunch make it a standout dessert for any celebration. With easy-to-follow steps and make-ahead convenience, it’s the perfect recipe to impress your guests or treat yourself to something extraordinary. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

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