5 Creative Cinnamon Toast Crunch Recipes Beyond Breakfast

Cinnamon Toast Crunch isn't just for breakfast bowls—this crunchy, cinnamon-sugar cereal transforms desserts, snacks, and even savory dishes with its signature flavor. Discover five tested recipes that go beyond milk, from French toast casserole to crusted chicken tenders, using simple techniques anyone can master in under 30 minutes.

That iconic "crunch" and warm cinnamon aroma make Cinnamon Toast Crunch a versatile kitchen staple. The cereal's fine sugar coating caramelizes beautifully when baked, while its rice-and-wheat base holds texture in both wet and dry applications. Unlike generic cereals, CTC's specific flavor profile—a blend of cassia and Ceylon cinnamon with just enough sweetness—adds depth without requiring extra spices in most recipes.

5 Creative Cinnamon Toast Crunch Recipes

1. Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Casserole

This make-ahead breakfast bakes CTC into a custard-soaked bread pudding format. The cereal creates a crisp, crumble-like topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior.

Ingredients

• 8 cups cubed brioche or challah
• 3 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch, divided
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Layer bread cubes in a greased 9x13 baking dish
2. Mix 2 cups CTC with 1 cup milk; pour over bread
3. Whisk remaining ingredients; pour over bread mixture
4. Top with remaining CTC
5. Cover and refrigerate overnight
6. Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until set

2. Cinnamon Toast Crunch Crusted Chicken Tenders

A surprising savory application where CTC's sweetness balances perfectly with poultry. The fine crumbs adhere better than panko and create an irresistible crispy exterior.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 2 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch, finely crushed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup flour

Instructions

1. Dredge tenders in flour, then egg wash
2. Mix CTC with Parmesan and garlic powder
3. Press chicken into cereal mixture
4. Bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes
5. Serve with honey mustard dip

3. Cinnamon Toast Crunch Energy Bites

No-bake snacks that satisfy sweet cravings while providing sustained energy. The cereal adds crunch without requiring additional sweeteners.

Prep Time	Cook Time	Servings	Calories per Bite
15 min	0 min	12 bites	95

Ingredients

• 1 cup Cinnamon Toast Crunch
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/3 cup almond butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

1. Process CTC into fine crumbs
2. Mix all ingredients in bowl
3. Roll into 1-inch balls
4. Chill 30 minutes before serving

4. Cinnamon Toast Crunch Pie Crust

Upgrade any pie with this flavorful alternative to graham crackers. Works especially well with apple, pumpkin, or sweet potato pies.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch
• 5 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Crush cereal into fine crumbs
2. Mix with melted butter, sugar, and salt
3. Press firmly into 9-inch pie dish
4. Bake at 350°F for 8 minutes
5. Cool completely before filling

5. Cinnamon Toast Crunch Ice Cream Sandwiches

These no-churn treats combine the cereal's crunch with creamy ice cream for a nostalgic summer dessert.

Ingredients

• 3 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 cups vanilla ice cream, softened
• 1/4 cup mini marshmallows (optional)

Instructions

1. Process 2 cups CTC into crumbs; mix with butter
2. Press half into 8x8 pan; freeze 15 minutes
3. Spread softened ice cream over base
4. Sprinkle with marshmallows and remaining CTC
5. Cover and freeze 4+ hours before cutting

Pro Tips for Perfect CTC Recipes

• Crushing technique matters: For coatings, pulse in food processor to fine crumbs. For toppings, crush by hand for varied texture.
• Timing is key: Add CTC to wet mixtures at the last moment to preserve crunch.
• Sweetness adjustment: Reduce added sugar by 15% in recipes since CTC already contains sweeteners.
• Storage secret: Keep finished dishes crisp by storing with a silica packet.
• Kid-friendly version: Let children press CTC into coatings—they'll love the "crunch art" process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute Cinnamon Toast Crunch in these recipes?

While other cinnamon cereals work in a pinch, CTC's specific sugar-to-cereal ratio creates optimal caramelization. Generic alternatives often require adjusting liquid ingredients by 10-15% to compensate for different moisture absorption.

How do I keep CTC recipes from getting soggy?

Add CTC in stages—mix half into batters and reserve half for topping. For no-bake recipes, work quickly and chill immediately. In layered dishes, create a moisture barrier with melted chocolate or corn syrup before adding wet ingredients.

Are these recipes suitable for gluten-free diets?

Traditional Cinnamon Toast Crunch contains wheat, but you can substitute with gluten-free cinnamon cereals like Catalina Crunch. Note that texture and browning may differ slightly due to different grain compositions.

What's the best way to crush CTC for different applications?

For coatings: pulse in food processor 5-7 times. For pie crusts: process until fine sand consistency. For toppings: place in zip-top bag and crush with rolling pin for varied texture. For energy bites: use pre-crushed "crunch" pieces straight from the box.