If you have a soft spot for nostalgic breakfasts and crave the ultimate cozy dessert, this Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake with Cereal Milk and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a dream come true. Imagine layers of moist, cinnamon-spiced cake infused with the unique flavor of cereal milk, all wrapped in a luxurious cream cheese frosting generously studded with crunchy Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal. Every bite sings with warmth, sweetness, and that signature cinnamon sugar sparkle that transports you back to childhood mornings. This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a heartfelt celebration of simple joy in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A tall round cake with three visible layers covered in smooth white frosting. The outside sides are coated with a crumbly light brown crumb layer that also decorates the top edges. On top of the cake, there is a small pile of broken light brown square cereal pieces, adding texture and color contrast. The cake is placed on a white plate with a white marbled surface beneath it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All of the ingredients in this recipe come together to create a perfect harmony of flavor and texture. Each item is carefully chosen to build layers of cinnamon goodness, tender crumb, and that unforgettable cereal crunch.

2 cups milk: The base for steeping the Cinnamon Toast Crunch to create flavorful cereal milk.
2 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal: Infuses the cake batter with iconic cinnamon sugar flavor while also crushed for topping.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and tenderness to the cake layers.
2 1/4 tsp baking powder: Leavens the cake for a light, fluffy texture.
3/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warm, fragrant spice to the cake.
3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Gives richness and moisture.
1 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping it brown beautifully.
3 large eggs (room temperature): Binds and aerates the batter for lift.
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the vanilla undertones complementing the cinnamon.
1 cup cereal milk (room temperature): The secret ingredient made by steeping cereal in milk for an authentic flavor boost.
1 cup crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal: For that irresistible crunch in the cake layers and decoration.
1/2 tsp baking powder: Part of the crumble topping for light crispness.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances and intensifies the crumble’s flavor.
2 Tbsp grape seed oil (or any vegetable oil): Adds moisture to the crumble.
2 tsp vanilla extract: For extra aromatic sweetness in the crumble.
1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Creams smoothly into the frosting for richness.
6 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Brings tang and tenderness to the frosting.
3 cups powdered sugar (sifted): Sweetens and gives the frosting structure.
1 Tbsp clear vanilla extract: Amplifies vanilla flavor without coloring the frosting.
pinch salt: Balances sweetness in the frosting nicely.
1 1/2 cups crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal: The final touch to decorate and add texture to the cake.

How to Make Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake with Cereal Milk and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cereal Milk

Start by pouring two cups of milk over two cups of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal in a medium bowl. Let this mixture steep for 20 to 25 minutes so the milk soaks up all the cinnamon sugar magic. Strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve and gently press the cereal to extract every bit of flavor. Save one cup of this luscious cereal milk for the cake batter and keep the rest for brushing between layers — it’s the secret element that makes every bite unforgettable. Discard the soggy cereal or snack on it if you can’t resist.

Step 2: Bake the Cinnamon Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare three 6-inch cake pans by greasing, flouring, and lining them with parchment paper. Wrap the pans with EvenBake strips if you have them for even baking. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl and set aside. Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add eggs one at a time, and vanilla extract. Alternate folding in your dry ingredients with the cereal milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture — this keeps the batter light and airy. Pour batter evenly into the pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Let the cakes cool on wire racks before assembling.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Crumble

Reduce the oven to 300°F and line a sheet pan with parchment or a silicone mat. Whisk the dry ingredients, then add grape seed oil and vanilla extract, mixing just until small clumps form. Spread the crumble evenly and bake for 15 minutes until crisp and fragrant. Let it cool completely before using. This crumble will add a delightful crunch that complements the soft cake layers perfectly.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat unsalted butter and cream cheese on medium-high speed until creamy and pale, about two minutes. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time on low speed to avoid a powdered sugar storm, then add vanilla extract and pinch of salt. Increase speed and whip it until the frosting is smooth and fluffy — the perfect texture to coat and fill your cake while offering a tangy contrast to the sweet cake.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Place one layer of cake onto your cake stand or serving plate. Brush it generously with 2 to 3 tablespoons of the reserved cereal milk to keep it moist and flavorful. Spread about two-thirds of a cup of cream cheese frosting over the layer, then sprinkle with crumble or crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal for texture. Repeat with the next two layers. Finally, frost the outside of the entire cake and press crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal into the sides for that stunning, crunchy finish.

How to Serve Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake with Cereal Milk and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A tall, round cake with four thick layers is covered in smooth light beige frosting. The outside is fully coated with crushed cereal crumbs, giving it a rough texture. On top of the cake, there is a small pile of whole cereal pieces in light brown color. The cake sits on a pale green cake stand with a wide flat top and a thick pedestal base, placed on a white marbled surface with scattered cereal pieces around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate this cake from delicious to absolutely show-stopping. Try dusting the top with a little extra ground cinnamon or powdered sugar for a delicate snowy effect. Adding small clusters of crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal or even a drizzle of honey or caramel can add a luscious finishing touch that complements the cake’s textures and flavors.

Side Dishes

This dreamy cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to balance its richness. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or crisp apples also makes a great side, adding freshness and a pop of color to your dessert plate. For a beverage, a warm cup of chai tea or coffee mirrors the cinnamon notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, try individual mini cakes or cupcakes made with this batter and frosting — topped with a sprinkle of the crumble for charm. A naked cake style, where some of the frosting peeks through the sides, gives a rustic yet elegant aesthetic. For parties, slice the cake into bars garnished with a drizzle of white chocolate or crushed cereal for easy serving and a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cake fresh by storing leftovers covered in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is better to prevent the frosting from softening too much, but allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake with Cereal Milk and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil and freeze for up to three months. You can also freeze individual layers or frosted slices separately. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and let it sit at room temperature to regain that fresh-baked softness.

Reheating

Because of the creamy frosting, reheating this cake should be done gently. If you prefer your cake slightly warm, place individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid heating the whole cake to keep the frosting stable and the texture just right. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different cereal instead of Cinnamon Toast Crunch?

While the signature cinnamon sugar flavor is key to this cake, you can experiment with other cereals like Frosted Flakes or Honey Nut Cheerios, though the taste will differ. The cereal milk concept still works beautifully with many sweet cereals to add unique flavor.

What is cereal milk and why is it special in this recipe?

Cereal milk is milk that has been steeped with cereal, capturing its sweet, cinnamon flavor and adding depth to dishes. It infuses the cake with that unmistakable nostalgic taste reminiscent of eating a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch, making this cake irresistible.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. You may need to adjust baking times slightly and check the texture, but the flavors will still shine through wonderfully.

How long does it take to make this cake from start to finish?

This recipe takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes including baking and cooling time. Planning for the cereal milk steeping and crumb topping prep early streamlines the process.

Is this cake suitable for freezing after it is frosted?

Absolutely. Just make sure the cake is well wrapped in plastic wrap and foil to protect the frosting. Thaw gently before serving to keep that creamy texture intact.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake with Cereal Milk and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a magical treat that brings comfort and delight to every occasion. Whether it’s a family celebration or a special weekend indulgence, this cake captures the essence of childhood breakfast favorites while offering a sophisticated dessert experience. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for the recipe again and again. Go ahead, give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!