If you love that warm, nostalgic crunch of your favorite cereal and want to transform your breakfast routine, this Cinnamon Toast Crunch Pancakes Recipe is an absolute must-try. These pancakes capture the sweet cinnamon flavor and cozy textures of Cinnamon Toast Crunch in every fluffy bite, blending a classic morning treat with a fun, creative twist. Perfect for weekend brunch or a special weekday breakfast, this recipe turns simple pantry staples into a mouthwatering stack of pancakes that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A tall stack of ten light brown pancakes with a soft, fluffy texture is placed on a white plate. The pancakes show slight uneven edges and spongy surfaces with small holes. On top and around the stack are small pieces of cereal with a rough, crunchy texture in light tan and brown colors. In the background, a blue bowl filled with more cereal sits on a white marbled surface, slightly out of focus. The setting includes a silver fork behind the pancake stack. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cinnamon Toast Crunch Pancakes Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to create unbeatable flavor and texture. Each component plays a specific role—from the fluffy base to the signature cinnamon aroma and the sweet, crunchy cereal pieces folded inside.

1 cup flour: The foundation for tender pancakes, creating structure and fluffiness.
2 tbsp sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the cinnamon and cereal flavors.
2 tsp baking powder: Gives the pancakes their wonderful rise and light texture.
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Infuses every bite with that warm, cozy spice that defines Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.
1 cup Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal (crushed): The star ingredient that adds crunch and bursts of cinnamon sugar throughout.
1 1/4 cups buttermilk: Brings moisture and a slight tanginess that brightens the batter.
3 tbsp butter (melted): Adds richness and helps keep the pancakes tender.
1 large egg: Binds everything together while providing structure.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with a sweet, fragrant touch.
Scant 1/4 cup maple syrup: For the glaze, bringing a natural sweetness to complement the pancakes.
1 cup powdered sugar: Forms the creamy base of the glaze for that perfect finishing drizzle.
1 1/2 tbsp milk: Thins the glaze to just the right consistency for pouring.
1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional): Adds depth to the glaze’s flavor, making it extra special.

How to Make Cinnamon Toast Crunch Pancakes Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until they’re evenly mixed. This step ensures every bite has the consistent cinnamon flavor and perfectly balanced sweetness you’re craving.

Step 2: Add the Crushed Cereal

Stir in the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal gently. These crunchy bits provide delightful texture contrast and burst with cinnamon sugar as you cook.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. This mixture will give your pancakes moistness, richness, and a lovely aroma.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring carefully just until everything is combined. Be cautious not to over-mix the batter to keep your pancakes fluffy and tender.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake. Cook for about 2 minutes until bubbles form and the edges look set, then flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, powdered sugar, milk, and optional vanilla extract until you have a smooth, pourable glaze. This sweet drizzle ties the whole dish together perfectly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Stack your pancakes high, pour on that luscious glaze, and get ready to dive into the best Cinnamon Toast Crunch Pancakes Recipe you’ll ever make.

How to Serve Cinnamon Toast Crunch Pancakes Recipe

A tall stack of ten light brown pancakes is placed on a white plate, showing the soft, fluffy texture and subtle specks inside each layer. The pancakes are neatly piled, with some crumbs and bits scattered around the bottom. There is a creamy white sauce spread unevenly on the plate near the bottom of the stack. The background has a white marbled texture with blurred utensils and a glass of milk softly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your stack with extra crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch sprinkled on top for more crunch and visual appeal. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few cinnamon sticks nearby can add a festive touch too. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or strawberries also pairs wonderfully, adding bright, juicy notes.

Side Dishes

Keep it simple with crispy bacon or sausage links for savory contrast, or opt for a bowl of fresh fruit salad to brighten up the meal. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt on the side creates a creamy balance to the cinnamon sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pancakes as a mini tower on individual plates with glaze drizzled artistically, or layer them with cream cheese frosting and extra cereal for a pancake “cake.” You can also pair with a small glass of cold milk to echo the classic cereal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any pancakes left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days without losing their beloved cinnamon flavor.

Freezing

To enjoy these pancakes later, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They stay delicious for up to 1 month and make a quick breakfast option.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated pancakes gently in a toaster, microwave, or oven. A toaster works great to regain some crispness, while the microwave is super quick—just cover lightly to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 1/4 cups of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make these vegan?

With some swaps, yes! Try using a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and a flax egg instead of a regular egg. Use vegan butter or oil to keep the recipe plant-based, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

What if I don’t have cinnamon cereal on hand?

You can substitute with any cinnamon-flavored cereal you like, or crush up cinnamon sugar toast for a similar effect. The key is having that cinnamon crunch element to complement the batter.

How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking to the skillet?

Make sure your skillet or griddle is preheated and lightly greased with butter or oil. Avoid flipping too early—wait until bubbles form on the surface and edges look cooked before turning.

Can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Yes! Adjust the amount of milk to find your preferred thickness. For a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner glaze, add a bit more until it reaches the perfect pourable consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about combining the nostalgic crunch of Cinnamon Toast Crunch with the warm, fluffy goodness of pancakes in this Cinnamon Toast Crunch Pancakes Recipe. It’s a fun and delicious way to start your day with a smile and a taste that brings back childhood memories. I can’t wait for you to whip up a batch and enjoy this crowd-pleaser with family or friends. Trust me, your breakfast game is about to be forever changed!