If you’re looking for the ultimate no bake treat that combines crunchy, gooey, and sweet in every bite, these Cinnamon Toast Crunch bars are a must-try! With their irresistible mix of gooey marshmallows and the bold cinnamon sugar flavor of a childhood favorite cereal, these cereal treats are perfect for satisfying cravings or wowing at your next gathering and are so easy to make.
These Cinnamon Toast Crunch bars are a blast for kids and a nostalgic delight for adults, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. For adults, these bars offer a delicious trip down memory lane, bringing back the joy of Saturday morning cartoons and bowls of cereal. Kids will not only love the taste, they’ll also have fun helping you make them! The cereal bar recipe is simple enough for little helpers to join in on the fun and it's a sweet way to spend time together while creating a dessert everyone will adore.
Similar to making classic Rice Krispies Treats this recipe has just three simple ingredients and minimal prep. This no-bake dessert is a breeze to whip up and the whole family will love them. Whether you're sharing these bars at a party, packing them for a picnic, or enjoying them as a snack, they’re a fun and flavorful recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
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Ingredients and Substitutions
- Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal – Make sure the cereal is fresh and crisp for optimal texture in the bars. You can substitute with other cereals for a different flavor.
- Mini Marshmallows – Opt for fresh, soft marshmallows for easier melting. You can use large marshmallows if needed, but mini ones melt more quickly and evenly.
- Salted Butter – Stick with real salted butter for a rich flavor. If you only have unsalted butter, you can add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Nonstick Spray – Use a good quality non-stick cooking spray to ensure the bars don’t stick to the pan. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars
- Step 1: Spray a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick spray. Cut the butter into 8 smaller pieces and add the marshmallows and butter to a large microwave safe bowl.
- Step 2: Microwave for about 2 minutes or until the marshmallows have risen and puffed near the top of the bowl. If 2 minutes is not enough, add another 30 seconds.
- Step 3: Remove the bowl from microwave and stir the marshamallows and butter with a spatula until smooth. Mix the box of cereal into the large bowl of melted marshmallow mixture and stir to coat all the cereal.
- Step 4: Place the cereal and marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan and press evenly. Let the cereal bars rest for one hour to set. Cut into 12 even sized squares and enjoy!
Hint: Heat the marshmallows and butter slowly to avoid burning.
If you like this recipe for delicious cereak bars, also try these Lucky Charms Cereal Bars.
Storage
Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to three days.
If you need to store them for more than three days, consider freezing. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
If taking these Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars to a party or event, pack them in a sturdy container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Top Tips
- Fresh marshmallows and cereal will give you the best taste and texture.
- Heat the marshmallows and butter slowly. Start with 2 minutes, then add 30-second intervals as needed to avoid overheating, which can make the mixture too stiff.
- Once the marshmallow mixture is smooth, stir in the cereal right away before it starts to cool and harden.
- Wet your hands or use a piece of parchment paper to press the mixture into the pan. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to spread evenly.
- Allow the bars to cool and set for at least an hour before cutting. This helps them hold their shape. You can pop them in the fridge or freezer to speed up the cooling time.
FAQ
Yes! While Cinnamon Toast Crunch gives these bars their signature flavor, other cereals like Fruity Pebbles, Cocoa Puffs, Froot Loops or Rice Krispies can work for a fun twist.
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Just ensure it has a mild flavor to complement the marshmallows and cereal.
Wet your hands with a bit of water or lightly coat them with nonstick spray when pressing the mixture into the pan. You can also use a spatula or a piece of parchment paper.
Yes! Melt the butter over medium heat in a large pot (non-stick), reduce heat to low, then add marshmallows and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until melted and combined. Remove pot from heat and stir in cereal. Mix well then press in baking dish and cut into squares.
Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal bars are a versatile treat that pairs perfectly with a variety of beverages, making them ideal for a cozy snack or indulgent dessert. Serve them alongside a steaming mug of hot chocolate, a comforting cup of tea, or a cold glass of milk. For a homemade coffeehouse experience, try pairing these bars with Caramel Iced Coffee, a rich, frothy Vanilla Latte or a refreshing glass of Simple Homemade Lemonade.
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RECIPE
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 1 box Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal 18 ounces
- 20 ounces Mini Marshmallows (2 bags)
- ½ cup Salted Butter (1 stick)
Instructions
- Spray a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick spray. Cut the butter into 8 smaller pieces and add the marshmallows and butter to a large microwave safe bowl.
- Microwave for about 2 minutes or until the marshmallows have risen and puffed near the top of the bowl. If 2 minutes is not enough, add another 30 seconds.
- Remove the bowl from microwave and stir the marshamallows and butter with a spatula until smooth. Mix the box of cereal into the bowl and stir to coat all the cereal.
- Place the cereal and marshmallow mixture into the baking dish and press evenly. Let the cereal bars rest for one hour to set. Cut into 12 even sized squares and enjoy!
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