If you’re searching for the ultimate nostalgic treat with a modern twist, these Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars are exactly what your dessert dreams are made of. With their soft, chewy texture and bursts of cinnamon sweetness, they’re a step up from classic cereal bars. What makes this recipe stand out? It’s incredibly easy, doesn’t require any baking, and highlights the iconic flavor of Cinnamon Toast Crunch in every single bite.
Perfect for lunchbox snacks, bake sales, or cozy evenings at home, these Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars combine marshmallows, butter, and cereal into a soft, gooey masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to become a staple in your dessert rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Only 4 ingredients and less than 15 minutes to prep.
- Soft & Gooey Texture: These aren’t your typical crunchy bars — they’re perfectly soft and chewy.
- Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves the familiar flavor of cinnamon sugar in a bar form.
- No Baking Required: Just melt, mix, and press — it’s that easy.
Ingredients List
- 6 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 10 oz (1 bag) mini marshmallows
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra spice)
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (for added richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Pan
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Set aside.
2. Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, add in the mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
Tip: For extra softness in your cinnamon toast crunch bars, remove the marshmallow mix from heat just before the last lumps melt and keep stirring.
3. Combine with Cereal
Quickly fold in the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal and optional cinnamon. Stir gently until the cereal is fully coated with the marshmallow mixture.
4. Press into Pan
Pour the mixture into your prepared dish. Use a buttered spatula or wax paper to gently press the mixture evenly into the pan without smashing the cereal.
5. Let Set and Slice
Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Expert Tips
Three Expert Tips
- Low Heat is Key: Melt the butter and marshmallows over low heat to avoid scorching and to get a perfectly smooth mix.
- Butter Your Tools: Butter your spatula or hands before pressing the mixture to avoid sticking.
- Add Texture: Mix in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or cinnamon sugar drizzle for variation.
Three Common Mistakes to Avoid
- High Heat Melting: This can make the marshmallows too stiff, resulting in hard bars.
- Over-Pressing the Mixture: Pressing too firmly makes the bars too dense.
- Not Lining the Pan: Without parchment or grease, the bars will stick and break during removal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Lasts up to 1 week, but may lose softness. Let them come to room temperature before eating.
- Freezer: Wrap each bar individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw before serving.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 90mg
Serving Suggestions & Variations
These Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars are fantastic on their own, but here are a few fun twists:
- Drizzle with melted white chocolate for a bakery-style look.
- Top with crushed freeze-dried strawberries or crushed cookies.
- Make a soft filled cinnamon toast crunch bar version by layering a spread of cookie butter or marshmallow cream in the middle.
For a softer version similar to the popular soft filled cinnamon toast crunch bar, warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
These Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars are fantastic on their own, but if you’re in the mood for something richer and indulgent, try our reader-favorite Tiramisu Brownies for a coffee-infused chocolate treat.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars are the perfect sweet treat for all ages — easy to make, delightfully soft, and bursting with cinnamon flavor. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood breakfasts or looking for a quick dessert to impress guests, this no-bake recipe delivers. Give it a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment or share your creations on social media — we’d love to see how you make them your own!
FAQs
Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes! Just use about 40 large marshmallows — they melt a bit slower but work the same.
Are Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars gluten-free?
No, Cinnamon Toast Crunch contains wheat. For a gluten-free version, look for a certified GF cinnamon cereal alternative.
Can I add peanut butter to this recipe?
Absolutely! Stir in ¼ cup peanut butter with the butter and marshmallows for a richer flavor.
How do I make the bars softer?
Don’t overcook the marshmallow mixture and avoid pressing too firmly into the pan. Store at room temp for max softness.
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars
Ingredients
- – 6 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
- – 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- – 10 oz mini marshmallows
- – ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
- – Optional: ¼ teaspoon salt
- – Optional: ½ cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 or 9×9 pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
- Add marshmallows and stir until fully melted.
- Stir in cinnamon and salt (if using).
- Quickly mix in Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal and optional chocolate chips.
- Pour mixture into prepared pan and press gently.
- Cool for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
– For a softer version, reduce the cooling time slightly or microwave individual bars before serving.
– Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Add in peanut butter or cookie butter for a creamy twist. # Serving Suggestions & Variations:
Serve with a glass of milk, drizzle with white chocolate, or layer with marshmallow fluff for a soft filled cinnamon toast crunch bar version. # Expert Tips:
– Use low heat to melt for the best texture.
– Don’t press too firmly into the pan.
– Butter your spatula to prevent sticking. # FAQs:
– Can I use large marshmallows? Yes, about 40.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use a GF cereal alternative.
– How do I make it softer? Don’t overcook and press gently. # Conclusion:
Try these Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars for a nostalgic yet new dessert experience. If you enjoy them, leave a review and share your twist on the recipe!
