Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cakes are a delightful twist on the beloved breakfast cereal that many of us grew up enjoying. With their crunchy, cinnamon-sugar goodness, these cakes capture the essence of that nostalgic cereal while providing a moist and fluffy texture that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert for a gathering, a special occasion, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy at home, this recipe is sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the best Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cakes recipe available, along with valuable tips and tricks to ensure your baking success. We’ll also explore the best ways to serve this delectable dessert and share additional information that will elevate your baking game. Let’s get started!
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
In addition to its delightful flavor, cinnamon offers some surprising health benefits. It has antioxidant properties, may help reduce inflammation, and has been linked to improved heart health. While this cake is indulgent, knowing that cinnamon provides some nutritional value makes it a little more guilt-free!
For the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar added)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, crushed
For the Cinnamon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Decoration (optional):
- Additional Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cakes. Gently fold in the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Glaze
While the cakes are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if it’s too thick, or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin.
Step 8: Assemble the Cakes
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Drizzle a portion of the cinnamon glaze on top. Place the second cake layer on top and drizzle the remaining glaze over the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal over the glaze.
Tips and Tricks
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter. This helps with better emulsification and an even texture.
- Crushing the Cereal: For a uniform texture, crush the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal in a plastic bag using a rolling pin. Aim for a coarse consistency that still retains some crunch.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle!
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Storing the Cake: If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week.
Best Served With
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cakes are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy touch.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream complements the spiced cake perfectly.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
- Coffee or Tea: Pairing your cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a delightful afternoon treat.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Presentation can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tips for a stunning display:
- Layered Cake: When stacking the layers, use a rotating cake stand to make it easier to frost and decorate.
- Garnishing: Top the cake with fresh berries, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch for a pop of color and texture.
- Serving Plates: Use colorful or patterned plates to enhance the visual appeal of your dessert.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cakes are a creative and mouth watering dessert that brings a nostalgic twist to your baking repertoire. With their fluffy texture and sweet, spiced flavor, they’re perfect for celebrations or just as a special treat at home. By following this recipe and incorporating the tips and tricks provided, you’ll create a deliciously impressive cake that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of this delightful Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake! Your taste buds will thank you!
Speak Your Mind