We’ve all had those moments when a simple treat hits the spot, and our Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats deliver just that. This fun twist on classic rice krispie treats swaps in the cinnamon-sugar crunch of everyone’s favorite cereal for a gooey delight that’s impossible to resist.
It’s a nod to nostalgic flavors with a modern edge making it perfect for quick family fun or potluck surprises. We promise you’ll love how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time.
Ingredients
In our Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats recipe, we gather simple yet flavorful ingredients that transform a classic treat into something irresistible. These components blend the nostalgic crunch of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal with gooey marshmallows for a quick, family-friendly delight.
To prepare these treats, start with the base ingredients and build from there. Here’s our curated list, ordered as they’re used in the recipe:
- 6 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal: Use this as the main base for that signature cinnamon-sugar crunch; measure it lightly packed for the best texture.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melt this first to create a smooth foundation; ensure it’s at room temperature for even melting.
- 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows: Add these next to the melted butter; opt for fresh marshmallows to achieve the perfect gooey consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Stir this in after melting the marshmallows for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: If you want to amplify the cinnamon notes, sprinkle this in during the mixing stage for a bolder taste.
With these ingredients on hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, ensuring every bite captures the essence of this modern twist on a beloved treat.
Required Tools
With our ingredients lined up for Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats, we now turn to the essential tools that make preparation smooth and efficient. These items help us melt, mix, and shape the treats quickly, ensuring a fun and mess-free experience in the kitchen.
To keep things organized, we’ve compiled a list of the required tools below. Each one plays a key role in the process, from melting the marshmallows to pressing the mixture into shape:
- Large Saucepan or Pot: We use this to melt the unsalted butter and mini marshmallows together over low heat. Opt for a non-stick version to prevent sticking and make stirring easier.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal with the melted marshmallow mixture. Choose a bowl that’s at least 4 quarts to handle the volume without spilling.
- Heat-Resistant Spatula or Wooden Spoon: This tool helps us stir the melting ingredients smoothly and fold in the cereal. A silicone spatula works best as it’s flexible and heat-safe up to 500°F.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Dish or Pan: We press the mixture into this for even cooling and cutting. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal and to avoid sticking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our recipe, so we rely on these to portion out the cereal, butter, and vanilla extract precisely.
- Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray: Not a tool per se, but essential for greasing the baking dish. We use it to ensure the treats release cleanly without breaking apart.
By having these tools ready, we ensure our Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats come together in under 15 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy days or spontaneous gatherings.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools lined up, we’re excited to guide you through creating these crunchy, gooey Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats. Follow our step-by-step process for a quick treat that delivers irresistible cinnamon-sugar aroma and a perfect chewy texture.
Prep
Before we start cooking, let’s get everything measured and ready for efficiency. Begin by gathering your ingredients: measure out 6 cups of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal into a large mixing bowl, ensuring the pieces are crisp and intact for that signature crunch. Next, cube 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and set aside; open the 10-ounce bag of mini marshmallows and have 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and optional 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon measured out nearby. Pro tip: Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make removal effortless.
Cook
With prep complete, it’s time to melt and mix for that warm, melty goodness. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the 4 tablespoons of cubed unsalted butter and stir continuously until fully melted, about 1-2 minutes—this releases a rich, buttery scent that hints at the treat to come. Add the 10-ounce bag of mini marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring constantly with a heat-resistant spatula until they transform into a smooth, gooey mixture, roughly 3-4 minutes; the marshmallows will puff up and create a glossy texture. Important: Once melted, remove from heat and quickly stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the optional 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for an extra burst of spicy-sweet flavor that elevates the Cinnamon Toast Crunch profile.
Assemble
Now we bring it all together for the final, satisfying steps. Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the 6 cups of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal in the large mixing bowl, and use your spatula to gently fold everything until the cereal is evenly coated—the mixture should cling to the flakes, creating a delightful contrast of soft and crunchy elements. Press the combined mixture firmly into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, using the back of the spatula or your hands (lightly greased to avoid sticking) to create an even layer about 1 inch thick. Let it cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes until set, then cut into squares for serving—these treats will offer a nostalgic, cinnamon-kissed bite that’s hard to resist.
Make-Ahead and Storage
We understand that life gets busy, so making Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats ahead of time keeps your treats fresh and ready to enjoy. Here’s how we recommend preparing and storing them to maintain that perfect crunchy and gooey texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
To prepare these treats in advance, follow our simple steps after assembly:
- Prepare the mixture as directed: Once you’ve pressed the cereal and marshmallow mixture into the baking dish, let it cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Cut into squares early: Use a sharp knife to portion the treats into squares right after cooling, then store them immediately to prevent sticking.
- Plan ahead for events: We suggest making them up to 2 days in advance for optimal freshness, as this allows the cinnamon-sugar flavor to mellow without losing its nostalgic appeal.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to preserving the treats’ delightful cinnamon-kissed crunch. We always store ours in an airtight container to lock in moisture and flavor.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Keep in an airtight container away from direct sunlight; this maintains the ideal gooey center and crisp edges. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Wrap squares individually in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container; the treats may firm up, so let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Flash-freeze squares on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag; thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes to restore the soft, marshmallowy texture without sogginess. |
For the best experience, we advise checking for any signs of staleness, like softening, before consuming. Always use clean, dry hands or utensils when handling to avoid introducing moisture that could affect the treats’ signature texture.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this recipe to bring a fun twist to your snack routine, blending nostalgia with ease. It’s a treat that sparks joy in every bite and fits seamlessly into our busy lives.
Share your versions with us and watch it become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats?
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats are a fun twist on classic rice krispie treats, using Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal for a nostalgic cinnamon-sugar flavor. They’re easy to make, perfect for family gatherings or quick desserts, combining crunchy cereal with gooey marshmallows for a delightful, shareable snack.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need 6 cups of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, a 10-ounce bag of mini marshmallows, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and optionally 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. These simple ingredients blend to create a sweet, crunchy treat in minutes.
What tools are required to make these treats?
Essential tools include a large saucepan for melting ingredients, a mixing bowl for the cereal, a spatula for stirring, a 9×13 inch baking dish for shaping, measuring cups and spoons, and parchment paper for easy removal. This setup ensures quick preparation in under 15 minutes.
How do I prepare Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats?
Start by melting butter and marshmallows in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon if using, then mix with the cereal in a bowl. Press the mixture into a greased baking dish and let it cool before cutting into squares. The whole process takes about 15 minutes for a yummy result.
Can I make these treats ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cinnamon Toast Crunch Marshmallow Treats up to 2 days in advance for the best freshness. This makes them ideal for busy schedules or events, as they hold up well when stored properly right after cooling.
How should I store the treats to keep them fresh?
Store treats at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator wrapped individually for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months after flash-freezing. Proper storage helps maintain their crunchy texture and flavor for maximum enjoyment.