There’s nothing quite like the delightful crunch of cereal on a quiet morning, and if you’re like me, you might have fond memories of indulging in those sugary bites of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. But what if I told you that you could whip up a healthier, homemade version of this beloved classic? After a long day of work, I found myself longing for a nostalgic snack without the guilt of traditional options, and that’s when this Homemade Vegan Gluten-Free Cinnamon Toast Crunch came to life in my kitchen.
With the warm aroma of cinnamon dancing in the air and the sweet, nutty flavors of almond and oat flour, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying treat that you can enjoy any time of day. Whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, these crispy bites offer a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s recreate the magic of your childhood in a healthier way that your taste buds will adore!
Why is Cinnamon Toast Crunch so Irresistible?
Delightful Nostalgia: This recipe evokes sweet childhood memories while keeping it healthy.
Easy to Make: No complicated steps—just mix, roll, cut, and bake!
Nutritious Ingredients: Almond and oat flours provide health benefits without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect for All: Vegan and gluten-free, it satisfies various dietary preferences.
Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy it as a breakfast cereal or a guilt-free snack anytime!
Crispy Goodness: Achieve that delightful crunch that everyone loves, fresh out of your oven!
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to create your homemade delight!
For the Dough
- Almond Flour – Provides a nutty flavor and contributes to a light texture; use store-bought for a finer consistency.
- Oat Flour – Adds a chewy element and helps bind the mix; choose store-bought for best results.
- Cinnamon – Offers warm, sweet flavor; essential for achieving that classic Cinnamon Toast Crunch taste.
- Coconut Sugar – Adds sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor; can be substituted with brown sugar for a similar taste.
How to Make Cinnamon Toast Crunch
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Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, oat flour, cinnamon, and coconut sugar. Mix well until fully combined, ensuring a uniform texture for your dough.
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Divide and Roll: Separate the dough into four equal batches. Roll each batch out between two pieces of parchment paper until thin, ensuring it’s not too thin to crumble, about 1/8 inch thick.
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Cut and Season: Use a pastry cutter to slice the rolled dough into small squares. Generously sprinkle with additional cinnamon and coconut sugar for that signature sweet topping.
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Bake: Arrange the dough squares on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until they turn golden and crisp, approximately 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
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Cool: Once baked, allow the pieces to cool slightly on the sheet, then break them apart. For a delicious cereal experience, let them cool completely if you’re serving with milk.
Optional: Try adding a touch of sea salt for a delightful sweet and salty balance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Toast Crunch
- Roll It Thin: Ensure the dough is rolled to about 1/8 inch thick for that beautiful, crispy texture; too thick will yield a chewy result.
- Parchment Paper Magic: Always use parchment paper when rolling and cutting to prevent the dough from sticking, making your life so much easier!
- Extra Cinnamon Boost: Don’t be shy—sprinkle on more cinnamon for an intense flavor punch that truly distinguishes your homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch!
- Baking Watch: Monitor closely while baking to avoid burning; every oven is different, and just a couple of minutes can make a big difference!
- Cooling Time: Allow the pieces to cool completely if you plan to serve them with milk; this step ensures they stay extra crispy for that delightful crunch!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the almond flour, oat flour, cinnamon, and coconut sugar, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain the quality, be sure to let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling it out, preventing any cracking. You can also cut and season the squares ahead and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and cook until golden brown. This way, you’ll have a delightful homemade snack ready to enjoy with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch recipe to suit all your tastes and preferences!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free version that’s just as delicious.
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Sweetener Switch: Try using maple syrup or agave nectar for added sweetness and a hint of flavor, adjusting moisture levels.
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Pumpkin Spice: Replace the cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a cozy, autumn-inspired twist that warms the soul.
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Chocolate Lover: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled pieces for a rich, indulgent treat that satisfies chocolate cravings.
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Add Crunch: Mix in some crushed nuts or seeds before baking for an extra layer of crunch and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
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Fruit Flair: Toss in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries before baking to elevate the sweetness and chewy texture in each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Coconut Delight: Use shredded coconut along with the cinnamon sugar topping for a tropical twist that’ll transport you to a sunny beach.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Toast Crunch?
Elevate your breakfast or snack time with delicious pairings that bring out the best in your homemade cereal.
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Almond Milk: A creamy, plant-based alternative that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cinnamon-sugar bites. Enjoy it as a refreshing dip or pour it over your crunchy treats for a nostalgic experience.
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Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy blueberries or strawberries add a burst of freshness and a touch of tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cereal. These vibrant fruits also boost the nutritional value of your meal!
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Banana Slices: Adding slices of ripe banana contributes natural sweetness and a creamy texture. It’s a delightful way to enhance the flavor while ensuring a wholesome breakfast.
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Nut Butter Drizzle: A drizzle of almond or cashew butter introduces a rich, nutty depth that brings creaminess to each bite. It’s not just tasty, but it also offers healthy fats for prolonged energy!
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer your Cinnamon Toast Crunch with dairy-free yogurt and fruits for a satisfying parfait. The layers create a visually appealing dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at.
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Chia Seed Pudding: Serve with a side of chia seed pudding for a nutritious and fiber-packed sidekick. The delightful texture of the pudding balances beautifully with the crunchiness of your cereal.
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Iced Herbal Tea: A refreshing drink like iced chai or herbal tea complements the warm flavors of cinnamon in your cereal, making for a peaceful morning ritual.
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Dark Chocolate Chips: For a decadent twist, sprinkle some dark chocolate chips over your Cinnamon Toast Crunch. The richness provides a delightful contrast to the crunchy, sweet bites!
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Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes can be a fun and tropical addition, enhancing the dish’s flavor and texture. They offer a slight chewiness that pairs nicely with the crunch.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a cozy drink option, enjoy your cereal with a warm pumpkin spice latte. It ties in with the cinnamon theme for an enjoyable breakfast experience!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Toast Crunch
- Room Temperature: Keep your Cinnamon Toast Crunch in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispiness for up to 1 week.
- Fridge: If you prefer, you can store it in the fridge, but it may lose some of its delightful crunch; consume within 5 days for best results.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked pieces in a zip-lock bag or airtight container. They can last up to 3 months; just thaw and re-crisp in the oven for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Reheating: For the best texture, warm your Cinnamon Toast Crunch in an oven at 350°F for a few minutes to revive that fresh-from-the-oven crunch.
Homemade Vegan Gluten-Free Cinnamon Toast Crunch Recipe FAQs
What type of almond flour should I use?
I recommend using finely ground almond flour for the best texture in your Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Store-bought almond flour is usually refined for consistency, which will give your cereal that perfect crunch.
How should I store my Cinnamon Toast Crunch?
Store your Cinnamon Toast Crunch in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crispy for up to 1 week. If you store it in the fridge, consume it within 5 days, as it might lose some crunchiness.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Toast Crunch?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your baked Cinnamon Toast Crunch in a zip-lock bag or airtight container. They can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and re-crisp in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes.
What if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly and not sticking together, it might be too dry. You can add a tablespoon of water or a splash of almond milk to help bind it. Just mix gently until the dough holds together well without being sticky.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
This recipe contains almond flour, making it unsuitable for those with nut allergies. A great alternative would be to use sunflower seed flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour, adjusting the liquids as needed to maintain the dough’s texture.
How do I achieve the perfect crispiness when baking?
To achieve that wonderful crunch, roll your dough to about 1/8 inch thick and keep a close eye on it while it bakes. Ovens vary, so check for that lovely golden color around the 15-minute mark, and don’t hesitate to let it bake a minute or two longer if needed.
Homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch: A Healthy Vegan Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, oat flour, cinnamon, and coconut sugar. Mix well until fully combined.
- Separate the dough into four equal batches. Roll each batch out between two pieces of parchment paper until thin, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Use a pastry cutter to slice the rolled dough into small squares. Sprinkle with additional cinnamon and coconut sugar.
- Arrange the dough squares on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-18 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Allow the pieces to cool slightly, then break them apart. Let cool completely if serving with milk.