Name: Soft Chewy Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies for Sweet Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with a gluten-free blend if desired.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 pinch Salt (Enhances overall flavor balance.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature for easy creaming.); ½ cup Granulated Sugar; ½ cup Light Brown Sugar (Can substitute with dark brown sugar.); 1 large Egg (Binds the ingredients together.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal (Crush more finely to prevent overly chewy pieces.); 1 cup Confectioners' Sugar; 2 tablespoons Milk (Any milk works.); 1 pinch Ground Cinnamon (Optional based on preference.); 1 pinch Salt (Balances sweetness of the icing.)

As I sifted through my pantry, a familiar box caught my eye, filled with crunchy Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal that brought back memories of indulgent breakfasts. This very moment inspired me to whip up a batch of Soft & Chewy Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies, combining that nostalgic crunch with a delightful cookie texture. With just a few simple ingredients and quick prep time, these treats are perfect for busy home-chefs looking to satisfy their sweet cravings without the fuss of elaborate baking. Plus, their soft and chewy texture paired with a subtle cinnamon sweetness will leave everyone asking for seconds! Ready to take your dessert game to the next level? Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Why are these cookies so irresistible?

Nostalgic flavors: These Soft & Chewy Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies take you back to childhood breakfasts with each bite of crunchy goodness.
Effortless preparation: No need for complex baking techniques—this recipe is designed for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned chefs.
Delightful texture: The unique blend of soft cookie and crunchy cereal creates a delicious contrast that’s truly satisfying.
Versatile treats: Customize them by using different cereals like Fruity Pebbles or adding chocolate chips, keeping your dessert game exciting!
Perfect pairings: Enjoy them with a glass of milk or alongside coffee for the ultimate treat experience. You can also explore making Spiced Apple Cinnamon cookies for another delightful option!

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability to the cookie dough. Can substitute with a gluten-free blend if desired.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to make the cookies rise.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds the signature cinnamon flavor that complements the cereal.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor balance.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and moisture; room temperature for easy creaming.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s crispness.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor; can substitute with dark brown sugar for deeper flavor.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness.
Crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal – Infuses the cookie with its signature flavor and texture. Crush more finely to prevent overly chewy pieces.

For the Icing

Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing.
Milk – Liquefies the icing for easy drizzling; any milk works.
Pinch of Ground Cinnamon – Enhances flavor; optional based on preference.
Pinch of Salt – Balances sweetness of the icing.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s nicely heated for even baking. While the oven warms up, line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper or a Silpat mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze, setting the stage for those delightful Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies!

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This process incorporates air, ensuring a light cookie texture. Once combined, set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of light brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. The mixture should be pale and airy, indicating it’s ready for the next step in making your comforting Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. This adds moisture and aromatic sweetness to your dough. Be careful not to over-mix; you want a smooth mixture without lumps, setting the stage for a perfectly balanced cookie.

Step 5: Blend in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to ensure your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies maintain their soft, chewy texture. The dough should be moist but not sticky, giving you the perfect base for your delicious cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Cereal
Gently fold in 1 cup of crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal using a spatula. This will distribute the delightful crunch throughout the dough without breaking the cereal pieces too much. The classic flavor will elevate your cookies, creating an irresistible texture that complements the soft cookie base.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop about 3 tablespoons of dough and place it onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread while baking without merging into one another. You should see the beautiful cereal pieces peeking through the dough!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; that’s perfect for achieving that soft and chewy texture in your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies. Rotate the pans halfway through if necessary for even baking.

Step 9: Cool Before Transferring
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This helps them set before transferring them to a wire rack. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, providing that delightful soft center surrounded by deliciously crunchy morsels.

Step 10: Make the Icing
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, a pinch of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This icing will add a lovely sweetness to your cookies. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed for drizzling.

Step 11: Drizzle over Cookies
Once your cookies have completely cooled, drizzle the icing over them using a fork or a piping bag for a more decorative touch. Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before serving. These Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies will be ready to impress family and friends with their nostalgic flavors and irresistible appeal.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies

Crush Smartly: Crushing the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal more finely ensures a more uniform texture throughout the cookies, preventing overly chewy pieces that may disrupt that delightful chewiness.
Butter Temperature Matters: Make sure your unsalted butter is at room temperature. If it’s too cold or melted, your cookies may end up greasy instead of soft and fluffy.
Use a Cookie Scoop: To achieve cookies that bake evenly, use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform portion sizes. This way, all your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies will have the same delightful texture.
Avoid Over-Mixing: When blending the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Over-mixing can lead to tougher cookies, losing that soft, chewy consistency.
Store with Care: Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container. Adding a slice of bread can help maintain their softness, making every bite just as delightful as the first!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft & Chewy Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to prep in advance! You can make the dough up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply prepare the dough as instructed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking to ensure even baking. Additionally, these cookies can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days—just remember to add a slice of bread to keep them soft and moist. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll enjoy homemade cookies with minimal effort any day of the week!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture. Adding a slice of bread can help keep them fresher longer.

Fridge: For optimal freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To revive their chewy goodness, microwave frozen cookies for 10-15 seconds. Just enough to warm them up without drying them out!

What to Serve with Soft & Chewy Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies

Indulging in these delightful cookies is a treat, but pairing them with the right accompaniments elevates the experience even more.

Classic Milk: The ultimate pairing for any cookie, a glass of cold milk enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
Rich Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee offers a contrasting bitterness that beautifully complements the cookie’s sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert that combines soft, chewy, and creamy textures.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the cookies adds a luxurious touch and deepens the flavor profile, making your treat irresistible.
Creamy Yogurt Dip: A light, flavored yogurt dip can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful snack.
Fruity Smoothies: Pair with a berry or banana smoothie for a fruity contrast that balances the cinnamon flavor while keeping the indulgence alive.

Each pairing brings a unique texture or flavor that enhances these amazing Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies, making your dessert experience both delicious and memorable!

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with these delightful twists to enhance their flavor and texture!

Alternative Cereals: Substitute with Fruity Pebbles or Lucky Charms for a vibrant twist. Each bite will surprise you with new flavors!
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the dough for rich, melty goodness. Imagine the perfect balance of chocolate against the cinnamon crunch!
Nutty Additions: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. They add a lovely crunch and depth, elevating your cookies further.
Dried Fruits: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins for a bit of tart sweetness. The added fruity burst creates a yummy contrast.
Cinnamon-Free Option: If using Cocoa Puffs, skip the cinnamon in the batter for a bold chocolatey cookie. Enjoy this different yet delicious experience!
Gluten-Free Delight: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly treat that everyone can enjoy!
Frosted Finish: Use a sweeter icing made with maple syrup instead of milk for a unique, decadent drizzle. Imagine each bite bathed in a maple-infused glaze!
Fruity Icing: For an extra touch, add a splash of fruit juice to your icing, like orange or lemon, for a zesty kick that brightens up the cookie flavors.

Remember, experimenting can lead to delicious surprises! If you’re in the mood for something classic with a twist, try these alongside Warm Cinnamon Spiced options. Happy baking!

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting cinnamon for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing ground cinnamon, look for a vibrant, aromatic spice. It should have a rich, warm scent and a deep brown color. If possible, avoid cinnamon with dark spots all over, as it may be old or of lesser quality. Freshly purchased or freshly ground cinnamon will provide the best flavor for your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies.

How should I store my Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies?
For best results, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their deliciously soft texture, add a slice of bread to the container, which will help keep them moist. If you have any leftovers (which is rare with these tasty treats!), placing them in the fridge can extend freshness to about a week.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, microwave them for 10-15 seconds!

What if my cookies come out too hard or dry?
No worries! If your cookies turn out hard, it may be due to over-mixing the dough or baking them for too long. To avoid this, mix the ingredients until just combined and watch the baking time closely. If they do come out too dry, a quick microwave for 10-15 seconds should help soften them, making them more enjoyable. Always remember, soft and chewy are the goals for these delightful Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cookies!

Are there any dietary concerns for these cookies?
Good question! These cookies contain gluten, dairy, and eggs, so they may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. However, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if necessary, and use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk for the icing. Always double-check all ingredients to make sure they align with your dietary needs!

Can I use different cereal for this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can definitely experiment with different cereals. Fruity Pebbles or Lucky Charms can create a fun twist on flavor and texture, while omitting cinnamon if using something like Cocoa Puffs will yield a delicious alternative. Feel free to get creative and see what variations you enjoy best!