If you’re looking for a showstopper dessert that’s both comfortingly nostalgic and decadently creamy, Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake might just be your new favorite treat. Imagine a buttery, cinnamon-laced crust made from everyone’s favorite childhood cereal, cradling an ultra-smooth, cinnamon-infused cheesecake filling, and topped with a crunchy sprinkle of cereal that makes every bite a delightful adventure in texture and taste. Perfect for birthday parties, family gatherings, or when you simply want to impress your friends with something unforgettable, this Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake is as fun to make as it is to eat!

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pulling this dreamy dessert together is surprisingly straightforward. Each ingredient brings something essential, whether it’s the creamy tang of the cheesecake or the nostalgic crunch of the cereal topping. Here’s exactly what you’ll need and a little tip on why each one matters.

Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal (2 cups, crushed): This forms the irresistibly crunchy, sweet, and cinnamon-packed crust that kicks off every slice with a smile.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): Melted butter binds the crushed cereal together and gives the crust its richness.
Cream cheese (3 x 8 oz packages, softened): The heart of any cheesecake, it provides that luscious, creamy texture and signature flavor.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling just right, balancing out the tanginess of the cream cheese.
Eggs (3 large): Eggs help set the filling, giving you that smooth but firm cheesecake structure.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors and enhances the warmth of the cinnamon.
Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a wonderful tangy note and helps keep the filling velvety.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Ensures the cheesecake is luxuriously silky and light.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Amplifies the cereal’s cinnamon flavor right in the cheesecake layer.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle touch to balance the sweetness and boost all the flavors.
Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal (1 cup, whole or lightly crushed): For topping—adds extra crunch and a picture-perfect finish.
Whipped cream (optional): A cloud of whipped cream takes each bite over the top—totally optional but highly recommended!

How to Make Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake

Step 1: Make the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Grab a medium-sized bowl and stir together the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal with the melted butter. This combo creates a fragrant, crunchy mixture that you’ll press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form your crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes so it sets up perfectly, then set it aside to cool while you tackle the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat your softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until they’re absolutely smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix thoroughly after each addition, for that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Now, stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and salt. Blend everything together until it’s silky and uniform, with that iconic whiff of cinnamon in the air.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over your cooled cereal crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula for an even bake. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set but just a little bit jiggly. For the creamiest results (and to help prevent cracks), turn the oven off and prop the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour; this gentle cool-down helps it set up just right.

Step 4: Chill to Perfection

After it’s cooled in the oven, transfer your cheesecake to the fridge and let it chill for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better if you can wait! This cooling time is crucial for that dreamy, sliceable texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, pile on the extra Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal for that signature crunch, and add swirls of whipped cream if you’re feeling extra fancy.

How to Serve Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake

Garnishes

The fun truly begins when it’s time to garnish your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake. A handful of whole or lightly crushed cereal on top adds texture, color, and plenty of playful visual appeal. For something a little more decadent, add generous dollops or piped stars of whipped cream. A light dusting of extra cinnamon or even a drizzle of caramel can also elevate each slice into an eye-catching masterpiece!

Side Dishes

While this cheesecake is absolutely a star in its own right, you can serve it alongside fresh berries or a fruit compote to add a refreshing contrast to the creamy, spiced richness. Hot coffee, chai, or a cinnamon-spiced latte also make excellent companions for this nostalgic treat, balancing the sweetness and adding a cozy element to your dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get creative, try serving the cheesecake in individual mason jars for parties, or cut it into mini squares for a whimsical dessert platter. Stack thin wedges with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a “cheesecake sundae,” or layer crumbled leftovers into parfait glasses with extra whipped cream and cereal for a fun, deconstructed version. However you serve it, each variation puts a playful spin on Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cheesecake keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. The flavors meld and the texture remains wonderfully creamy for up to three days—just be sure to add any cereal topping right before serving so it stays crisp.

Freezing

Want to make your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake even farther in advance? You can freeze it! Wrap the fully cooled cheesecake (either whole or in individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Store in the freezer for up to two months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight. Hold off on adding whipped cream or cereal topping until you’re ready to serve for best texture and freshness.

Reheating

While cheesecake is most delicious served chilled, if you prefer it a little closer to room temperature, simply set a slice out for 20 to 30 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwaving, as this can alter the creamy texture and cause the filling to weep or become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap in a gluten-free cinnamon-flavored cereal and check that all other ingredients (like vanilla and cream cheese) are certified gluten-free. You’ll have the same easy, delicious results with all the flavors you love.

How do I keep my cheesecake from cracking?

To avoid cracks, be sure not to overmix the batter (especially once the eggs are added) and bake the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of hot water on the rack below your springform pan. Slow cooling—letting the cheesecake rest in the oven with the door ajar—also helps keep the surface smooth.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese or dairy alternatives?

You can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but be aware the cheesecake’s texture may be slightly less rich and creamy. Plant-based cream cheeses and dairy-free creams work if you need a non-dairy version, though the results may be a bit softer.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream handy, you can use an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt. This substitute will yield a delicious, creamy texture with a hint of tang, very similar to the original.

How far ahead can I make Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake?

It’s ideal to make this cheesecake a day ahead so the flavors have time to meld and the filling sets up completely in the fridge. Freshness is best within three days, although the plain cheesecake (without cereal topping) freezes beautifully for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

If you love a dessert that’s both playful and irresistibly creamy, you owe it to yourself (and your loved ones) to whip up Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake. Each step is simple, the ingredients are approachable, and the results are truly magical. Give it a try—you’ll see why it’s become a forever favorite in so many kitchens!

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a decadent Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake that combines the flavors of your favorite cereal with a creamy, rich cheesecake filling. This dessert is a delightful twist on a classic treat, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

2 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal (crushed)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Topping:

1 cup Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal (whole or lightly crushed, for topping)
Whipped cream (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F.
Prepare the Crust: Mix crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal with melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Cool.
Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, sour cream, heavy cream, cinnamon, and salt. Pour over crust.
Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly. Cool in the oven, then chill for at least 4 hours.
Serve: Top with more Cinnamon Toast Crunch and whipped cream before serving.