A rich and creamy cheesecake studded with crunchy Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, topped with a generous layer of the iconic cinnamon-sugar flakes for the perfect blend of smooth and crisp textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake combines the irresistible nostalgia of your favorite childhood cereal with the decadence of a classic cheesecake. Each bite delivers a smooth, velvety filling punctuated by bursts of cinnamon crunch, while the topping adds a delightful texture contrast. It’s a fun, indulgent dessert that’s perfect for celebrations, dessert tables, or whenever you crave a comforting slice of something sweet and memorable.
Ingredients
600 g cream cheese, softened
200 g granulated sugar
3 large eggs
200 ml sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
150 g Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal (plus extra for topping)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Cheesecake Base
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Crush 100 g of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal lightly. Mix with the flour and ground cinnamon, then set aside.
Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Combine and Assemble
Gently fold the crushed cereal mixture and 150 g of whole Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal into the cheesecake batter, reserving a small amount of whole cereal for the topping.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the reserved cereal evenly across the surface.
Bake
Bake the cheesecake for 55–60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the oven door ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Chill
Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving to allow the cheesecake to set fully.
Servings and timing
Makes 8 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 5 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add a Cinnamon Toast Crunch crust by mixing crushed cereal with melted butter and pressing into the pan before pouring in the filling.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or white chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
- Mix in a handful of mini marshmallows for a cereal-bar twist.
- Top with whipped cream and more crushed cereal before serving.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for added warmth.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best texture, do not freeze. Serve cold or allow to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before slicing for easier serving.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for best texture, but low-fat can be used with slight variation in creaminess.
How do I prevent the top from cracking?
Avoid overmixing, bake at a low temperature, and let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven.
Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Yes, it’s best made a day ahead and chilled overnight.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A regular cake pan can be used, but lining it with parchment for easier removal is essential.
Is a water bath necessary?
Not for this recipe, but it helps ensure even baking and prevents cracking.
Can I use different cereal?
Yes, any sweetened crunchy cereal can be substituted for a new flavor twist.
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Freezing is not recommended due to the cereal topping losing its crunch.
How long will it keep in the fridge?
Up to 5 days in a well-sealed container.
Should I toast the cereal before using?
Not necessary, but lightly toasting can enhance crunch and flavor.
What should I serve it with?
Enjoy with coffee, whipped cream, or fresh berries for contrast.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of childhood charm and dessert sophistication. With its creamy filling and crispy topping, it offers a satisfying contrast of textures and a comforting, familiar flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, a birthday, or just because, this cheesecake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake
A rich and creamy cheesecake studded with crunchy Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, topped with a generous layer of the iconic cinnamon-sugar flakes for the perfect blend of smooth and crisp textures.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 600 g cream cheese, softened
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 200 ml sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 150 g Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Crush 100 g of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal lightly and mix with the flour and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gently fold in the crushed cereal mixture and the remaining whole Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, reserving some for topping.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle reserved cereal evenly on top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven and let cheesecake cool inside with door ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Do not overbake; the center should still jiggle slightly for a creamy texture.
- Use fresh cereal for maximum crunch on top.
- Chill thoroughly to ensure a firm and smooth consistency before slicing.
- Garnish with whipped cream or more cereal just before serving for extra flair.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 30 g
- Sodium: Approx. 300 mg
- Fat: Approx. 28 g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 35 g
- Fiber: Approx. 1 g
- Protein: Approx. 7 g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 115 mg