Heavenly Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

Dreamy Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake Recipe For Sweet Tooths

Sweet aromas of cinnamon and creamy cheesecake swirl through the kitchen when you create this irresistible cinnamon toast crunch cheesecake recipe.

Crispy cereal provides a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the silky smooth cream cheese base.

Each bite promises a nostalgic dance of flavors that transports you back to childhood breakfast memories.

The golden-brown crust crumbles delicately beneath rich, velvety filling studded with cereal pieces.

Subtle warmth from ground cinnamon weaves through every creamy layer, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Layers of texture and flavor make this cheesecake a showstopper at any gathering.

Prepare to fall in love with a dessert that bridges the gap between classic cheesecake and beloved breakfast cereal.

Ingredients Behind the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake

For Crust:
  • Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal: Delivers delightful cinnamon flavor and creates a crunchy, sweet base with amazing texture.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and provides rich, golden flavor for a perfect crumbly foundation.
  • Sugar: Enhances sweetness and helps the crust hold together beautifully.
For Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates smooth, luxurious base with classic tangy cheesecake flavor, choose full-fat for best results.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances cream cheese's tanginess.
  • Sour Cream: Adds moisture and subtle tang, ensuring extra creamy texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Brings warm, aromatic depth to the cheesecake's overall flavor profile.
  • Cinnamon: Amplifies the Cinnamon Toast Crunch theme with warm, spicy notes.
  • Salt: Enhances and balances all flavor dimensions in the filling.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake filling together.
For Topping:
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates delicate, soft sweetness and elegant finishing touch.
  • Cinnamon: Adds warm spice and complements the cereal theme.
  • Whipped Cream: Optional garnish that adds light, airy richness.
  • Whole Cinnamon Toast Crunch Pieces: Provides crunchy decoration and reinforces the cereal's signature flavor.

What You’ll Need for Cheesecake Magic

  • Springform Pan: 9-inch round pan with removable sides for easy cheesecake release.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: Spacious bowl for combining crust ingredients and beating cheesecake filling.
  • Electric Mixer: Essential for creating smooth, creamy cheesecake batter without lumps.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements ensure perfect texture and flavor.
  • Spatula: Helps scrape bowl sides and evenly spread crust and filling.
  • Baking Sheet: Optional support for springform pan during baking.

Instructions for Making Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake

  • Crush the Cereal Base

Grab your Cinnamon Toast Crunch and transform it into a delightful crunchy foundation. Pulverize the cereal into fine crumbs, blending with melted butter to create a sticky, delectable base. Press this mixture firmly into your springform pan, creating a solid, tasty platform for your cheesecake.

  • Whip Up the Creamy Center

Beat cream cheese until silky smooth, then gently fold in sugar, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Add eggs one by one, mixing carefully to maintain a luxurious, velvety texture. The goal is a luscious, dreamy filling that will make taste buds dance.

  • Bake with Precision

Pour your creamy mixture over the cereal crust, sliding the pan into a preheated oven. Bake until the edges look set but the center still has a gentle wobble. Once done, let the cheesecake rest in the cooling oven, allowing it to settle gracefully.

  • Chill and Decorate

Refrigerate the cheesecake for several hours, letting it firm up and develop deep, rich flavors. When ready to serve, dust the top with a cinnamon-sugar blend. Optional: Crown with whole cereal pieces and a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Add-Ons & Creative Variations for Cheesecake

  • Crust Crushing Technique: Crush Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal into fine, even crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin for a perfectly uniform base that holds together beautifully.
  • No-Crack Cheesecake Secret: Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent surface cracks and ensure a smooth, creamy texture that's pure perfection.
  • Flavor Boost Hack: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for an extra warmth that complements the cinnamon notes and elevates the entire dessert.
  • Diet-Friendly Swaps: Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew or almond-based cream cheese for a vegan version. Use gluten-free Cinnamon Toast Crunch for a gluten-sensitive option.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: This cheesecake can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator, making it an ideal dessert for stress-free entertaining.

Serving the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake

  • Breakfast Dessert Twist: Start your day or end a meal with this delightful cheesecake that combines classic breakfast cereal with creamy dessert magic. Perfect for weekend brunch or special celebrations.
  • Cereal Crunch Garnish: Top each slice with additional Cinnamon Toast Crunch pieces for extra texture and a playful crunch that adds excitement to every bite. The crispy cereal creates a delicious contrast with the smooth cheesecake.
  • Whipped Cream Delight: Dollop fresh whipped cream on the side or directly on top of each slice. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon-sugar mixture over the cream for a beautiful and tasty finishing touch that enhances the dessert's visual appeal and flavor profile.
  • Sweet Pairing Suggestion: Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the cinnamon flavors. The warm beverage will bring out the rich, comforting notes of the cheesecake and create a memorable dessert experience.

Keep That Cheesecake Fresh Longer

  • Fridge-Friendly Storage: Keep the cheesecake tightly wrapped in plastic film or sealed container for up to 5 days. Store in the coldest part of your refrigerator to maintain maximum freshness and texture.
  • Freezing Technique: Slice the cheesecake into individual portions before freezing. Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen slices will stay delicious for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
  • Crunch Care Strategy: To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, store the cheesecake with a loose covering that allows slight air circulation. Avoid airtight seals which can trap moisture and compromise the crispy cereal base.
  • Temperature Transition Tips: Always let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. This gentle warming helps restore the creamy texture and enhances the rich flavors, making each bite more enjoyable and smooth.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Calories: 404 kcal

Servings: 12

Print
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Heavenly Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

Heavenly Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cheesecake Recipe


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4.7 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Sweet cinnamon toast crunch cheesecake celebrates classic breakfast cereal in a creamy dessert. Crisp cereal crust and silky filling create a nostalgic treat guests will adore.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 (8 oz/226 g) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 ½ cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, crushed
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsps granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal (whole pieces for garnish)
  • Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Crust Preparation: Pulverize Cinnamon Toast Crunch into fine crumbs, blending with melted butter and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand, then firmly press into a springform pan’s base.
  2. Crust Baking: Roast the crust in a 350°F oven until golden and fragrant, then allow to cool completely, establishing a crisp foundation for the cheesecake.
  3. Filling Creation: Whip cream cheese until silky smooth, gradually incorporating sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt, maintaining a luxurious, lump-free consistency.
  4. Egg Integration: Gently fold eggs into the mixture one at a time, preserving the filling’s delicate airiness and ensuring thorough incorporation.
  5. Baking Process: Pour the velvety filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly, and bake in a 325°F oven until the edges set but the center remains slightly jiggly.
  6. Cooling Technique: After baking, crack the oven door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually and prevent surface cracking, then transfer to the refrigerator.
  7. Chilling and Finishing: Refrigerate for several hours to develop a dense, creamy texture, then dust with a cinnamon-powdered sugar blend and garnish with whole Cinnamon Toast Crunch pieces and optional whipped cream.

Notes

  • Prevent Crumbly Crust: Press cereal mixture firmly and evenly into pan to create a solid, compact base that won’t fall apart when slicing.
  • Manage Cream Cheese Texture: Ensure cream cheese is room temperature and beat thoroughly to eliminate lumps, guaranteeing a smooth, silky filling.
  • Control Baking Moisture: Use a water bath or place a pan of water in the oven to prevent cheesecake from cracking and maintain creamy consistency.
  • Customize Dietary Options: Swap regular ingredients with gluten-free cereal, low-fat cream cheese, or dairy-free alternatives for alternative dietary needs.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 482
  • Sugar: 40 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
William Hawkins

William Hawkins

Founder & Culinary Director

Expertise

  • Modern American and Southern Cuisine
  • Farm-to-Table Practices
  • Restaurant Concept Development
  • Culinary Education and Mentorship​

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, KY

  • Degree: Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on mastering culinary methods and food science, immersive externships, hands‑on training in industry‑standard kitchen labs, and equipping graduates for roles in restaurant operations.

William Hawkins isn’t just a chef, he’s a storyteller through food. From his hometown of Louisville, KY, he’s spent years refining his craft, turning local ingredients into something extraordinary. 

With classical training from Sullivan University and a career marked by innovation, mentorship, and Southern soul, William approaches every recipe with purpose. His kitchen is where old techniques meet fresh ideas, and where comfort food gets a thoughtful, modern twist. 

When he’s not building dishes from the ground up, he’s out gathering inspiration from nature, markets, and the stories people share around the table.

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