Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake

by

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake is a dreamy fusion of nostalgic breakfast cereal and classic creamy cheesecake. With its crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust and velvety filling, this dessert transforms a beloved childhood favorite into an irresistible, grown-up indulgence. Perfect for celebrations, holidays, or any time you crave something delightfully sweet, it promises pure comfort in every bite.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Cheesecake has ancient roots stretching back to Greek and Roman times, but the American cream-cheese version became iconic in the 20th century. Cinnamon Toast Crunch, first introduced in 1984, quickly became a staple cereal known for its addictive cinnamon-sugar crunch.
Combining the two represents modern fusion baking—where nostalgic snacks and classic desserts meet to create bold, fun, innovative treats.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Crust

  • 2 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, crushed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Topping (Optional but Amazing)

  • Whipped cream
  • Additional Cinnamon Toast Crunch pieces
  • Cinnamon-sugar dusting

Optional Additions

  • Caramel drizzle: For extra sweetness and buttery richness.
  • A pinch of nutmeg: Enhances the warm spice profile.
  • Brown sugar cream: Whip cream with a touch of brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
  • Cinnamon swirl inside the batter: For a marble effect and extra flavor.

Tips for Success

  • Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in your filling.
  • Do not overmix the batter—this prevents cracking.
  • Bake using a water bath for the smoothest cheesecake texture.
  • Let the cheesecake cool completely before chilling for best slicing.
  • Crush the cereal finely so the crust holds together properly.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Crush Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal until fine.
  3. Mix cereal crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter.
  4. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
  5. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add sugar and beat again until creamy.
  3. Mix in eggs one at a time—do not overbeat.
  4. Add vanilla, sour cream, and cinnamon.
  5. Pour filling over the cooled crust.

3. Bake

  1. Place pan inside a larger baking dish and pour hot water around it (water bath).
  2. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until the center is slightly jiggly.
  3. Turn oven off, crack door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

4. Chill & Serve

  1. Refrigerate cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Top with whipped cream, Cinnamon Toast Crunch pieces, and cinnamon-sugar before serving.

Description

This cheesecake boasts a buttery, cinnamon-infused crust that melts beautifully into each bite. The filling is luxuriously smooth, lightly spiced, and delicately sweetened. The cereal topping adds an irresistible crunch, making every slice a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and cinnamon-sugary goodness.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice, 12 servings)

  • Calories: 430–480
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Sugar: 32g
  • Sodium: 320mg

(Values vary depending on toppings and exact cereal amount.)

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake captures the joy of childhood breakfast but elevates it into a show-stopping dessert. Its rich creaminess paired with nostalgic cinnamon flavor makes it unforgettable and universally loved.

Recommendation

Serve this cheesecake at birthdays, brunches, potlucks, holidays, or alongside a warm cup of coffee. A drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon makes it even more magical.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this cheesecake is a decadent treat, enjoying a slice mindfully—paired with fresh fruit, shared with loved ones, or reserved for special occasions—allows you to indulge with balance and joy. Embrace the sweetness, savor each bite, and celebrate the moment.

Leave a Comment