With the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air, I realized I was about to embark on a delicious adventure. This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake is my heartfelt tribute to those carefree mornings spent savoring a bowl of sweet cereal. Combining moist layers of cinnamon-infused cake, a rich cream cheese frosting, and a crunchy cereal crumble, this delightful treat is perfect for birthday celebrations or whenever you crave a sweet escape. Not only does it offer a nostalgic twist that’ll whisk you back to childhood, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a hassle-free dessert option for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Are you ready to dive into a world of flavor and texture that will surely tantalize your taste buds? Let’s get baking!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake brilliantly merges the essence of your favorite breakfast cereal with a moist cake, making every slice a nostalgic delight.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, both novice bakers and seasoned chefs will find this recipe approachable.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, it’s not just a dessert—it’s a conversation starter that will impress guests, just like my popular Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with additional toppings or other cereals to cater to varying tastes.
Delightful Texture: The contrast between the fluffy cake and crunchy cereal topping creates a flavor sensation you won’t want to miss.
Get ready to cook up memories and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this delectable Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake!
For the Cake
- Cereal Milk – Adds a rich flavor reminiscent of breakfast cereal with milk; substituting with regular milk will miss that unique taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure of the cake; can be replaced with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking Powder – This essential leavening agent helps the cake rise perfectly.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness; don’t omit this important ingredient!
- Ground Cinnamon – Imparts warm spice flavor, crucial for that iconic cinnamon taste; adjust to your preference.
- Unsalted Butter – Offers richness and moisture; swap with margarine for a dairy-free version if desired.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake while keeping it moist; coconut sugar is a less refined alternative.
- Eggs – Contributes moisture and acts as a binder; consider flax eggs or applesauce for a vegan option.
- Vanilla Extract – Brings depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Creates a tangy frosting; vegan cream cheese works for a dairy-free version.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; no direct substitutions for optimal texture are recommended.
For the Crumble
- Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal – Adds flavor and texture to both the cake and crumble; regular cereal can be swapped, but will alter the taste.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to tasting the bliss of a Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake that will have everyone asking for seconds! Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake
Step 1: Prepare Cereal Milk
In a sturdy bowl, combine 2 cups of milk with 2 cups of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Allow the mixture to steep for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to infuse flavor. Once the time is up, strain the mixture to separate the cereal, reserving 1 cup of the cereal milk for your cake. Set aside the milk and get ready for the next step.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 6-inch cake pans to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This dry mix will provide the structure and flavor for your delightful Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which will give your cake a tender texture. Once fluffy, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the reserved cereal milk. Start with one-third of the dry mix, pour in half of the cereal milk, then repeat the process ending with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep your cake light and airy.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans, using a spatula to smooth the tops for an even bake. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Crumble
While the cakes are cooling, create the cereal crumble. In a bowl, mix together the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch, a pinch of baking powder, salt, and oil until the mixture is crumbly. Spread it evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool before using.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and the remaining unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until there are no lumps. Finish by adding a splash of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then beat until the frosting is fluffy and ready for spreading.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Start layering your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake once the layers and frosting have cooled completely. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, drizzle it with a bit of cereal milk, and spread a layer of frosting on top. Sprinkle on some of the cereal crumble, then repeat with the second layer. Finish by topping the final layer with more frosting and pressing crushed cereal gently onto the sides for additional texture.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake
Fridge: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices of cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Crumble Storage: Store the cereal crumble separately in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature. You can also freeze it for 3 months to maintain its crunchy texture.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, take a slice and microwave it for 10-15 seconds. The delicious flavors of the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake will shine again with a little warmth!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth frosting that spreads effortlessly.
-
Avoid Overmixing: To maintain a light and airy texture, mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake.
-
Use EvenBake Strips: Employ EvenBake strips or a baking strip around your pans to promote even baking, preventing domed tops and ensuring a level cake.
-
Press Crumble Gently: When adding the cereal crumble to the sides of the cake, press it gently to avoid the cake falling apart, creating a beautiful presentation.
-
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of ground cinnamon in the cake to suit your personal preference; this will allow you to enhance that beloved cinnamon flavor.
-
Store Properly: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week to keep it fresh and moist for your next indulgent treat.
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful cake to suit your preferences!
- Nutmeg Twist: Substitute ground cinnamon with nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor that’s equally comforting.
- Fruity Crunch: Replace Cinnamon Toast Crunch with Fruity Pebbles for a vibrant, fruity twist that kids and adults will love.
- Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a rich contrast against the cinnamon flavors.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch and earthiness that complements the cake.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap unsalted butter and cream cheese for vegan alternatives to cater to dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor.
- Mini German Pancake Style: For a fun breakfast-inspired version, make mini cakes and serve with maple syrup, akin to my tasty Mini German Pancakes.
- Boozy Boost: Drizzle a little rum or bourbon over the layers before frosting for an adults-only cake twist that adds depth.
- Churro Style: Sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mixture on the frosting for that sweet churro vibe, bringing a deliciously crispy texture to every bite.
No matter how you choose to customize, there’s always room for fun and flavor in your baking adventures!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cakes are tailor-made for busy home cooks who appreciate the convenience of meal prep! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake, cool, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. The cereal crumble can also be made and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature without compromising its crunch. When it’s time to serve, just whip up the frosting—this takes only about 5 minutes—and assemble the cake. Drizzle with some reserved cereal milk, and you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake?
Elevate your dessert experience with pairings that complement the delightful flavors of this nostalgic cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice! The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness of the cake seamlessly.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries add a refreshing contrast that brightens every bite.
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the cinnamon notes, creating a comforting pairing you won’t want to miss.
- Milk: A chilled glass brings back that childhood cereal moment, perfectly matching the cake’s nostalgic vibe.
- Whipped Cream: Fluffy and airy, whipped cream provides a light texture against the dense layers of cake while adding extra sweetness.
For a truly special touch, serve alongside a berry compote. The rich and tangy flavors will elevate your experience, making this dessert a highlight of any gathering.
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal?
Absolutely! When choosing your Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, look for fresh boxes without any dark spots or damage. The cereal should be crisp and within its expiration date for the best flavor and texture in your cake.
How should I store leftover Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake?
Very! To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to 1 week. Make sure it’s covered to prevent it from absorbing other odors.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze the cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method protects the cake from freezer burn and preserves its flavor and moisture. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or let sit at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if my cake is too dense or doesn’t rise?
If your cake turns out too dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or incorrect measuring of flour. Always spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy. To troubleshoot, ensure your baking powder is fresh; it should bubble vigorously when added to liquid. Remember, gently folding the ingredients keeps the cake light and airy!
Can I adapt the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! For those with allergies or dietary concerns, there are several substitutions available. Use gluten-free flour blends to keep it friendly for gluten sensitivities, or substitute eggs with flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version. If dairy is a concern, swap out butter and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your needs!
How long should I let the cake cool before frosting?
Absolutely! Allow the cake layers to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. It’s essential for layers to cool completely—ideally, wait at least 30 minutes—before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and helps achieve a beautiful and stable cake when you assemble.
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Cereal Milk: Combine 2 cups of milk with 2 cups of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Let steep for 20-25 minutes, then strain and reserve 1 cup of the cereal milk.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease three 6-inch cake pans. Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla; mix until incorporated.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with cereal milk.
- Bake the Cake: Divide batter among pans and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Crumble: Mix crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch, baking powder, salt, and oil. Bake at 300°F for 15 minutes.
- Make the Frosting: Beat cream cheese and remaining butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake: Layer the cake with frosting and crumble. Top final layer with frosting and press crumble onto the sides.
Leave a Reply