White Chocolate Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars

Name: White Chocolate Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 3 ¼ cups white chocolate chips, divided; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 cup Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal

This simple and indulgent treat combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the warm spice of cinnamon, perfectly paired with crunchy cereal for texture. A great snack for any occasion!

Ingredients

3 1/4 cups white chocolate chips
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 cup Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal

Directions

Step 1: Melt 3 cups of white chocolate in a double boiler. Alternatively, place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted.

Step 2: Add 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to the melted chocolate and stir well to combine, ensuring the cinnamon is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare a 12-well silicone snack bar pan. Place 3-6 cereal pieces in each well. Spoon the melted chocolate over the cereal, filling each well halfway.

Step 4: Immediately place another 3-6 pieces of cereal on top of the chocolate layer in each well.

Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining white chocolate chips evenly over the cereal layers in each well.

Step 6: Since white chocolate hardens quickly, make sure to work fast as you assemble the bars.

Step 7: Once all the wells are filled, allow the bars to cool and set completely. This can take a few minutes at room temperature or be expedited by refrigerating for faster hardening.

Cook's Note

These bars are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight for a few days. Their sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor makes them an irresistible snack!

Nutrition Facts

Each serving (1 bar) contains:

Calories: 260
Total Fat: 15g (19% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 9g (44% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 10mg (3% Daily Value)
Sodium: 61mg (3% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 30g (11% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 28g
Protein: 3g (6% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium: 110mg (8% Daily Value)
Iron: 1mg (5% Daily Value)
Potassium: 139mg (3% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is based on available data for the listed ingredients. Consult a medical professional if you are following a medically restrictive diet.

Origin of the Recipe

The White Chocolate Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars are a modern twist on the classic American snack bars, combining the irresistible flavor of white chocolate with the crunchy, cinnamon-coated goodness of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal. This fusion is a delightful treat for both kids and adults, often appearing as a fun, sweet snack at family gatherings or after-school snacks. The concept of mixing cereals with melted chocolate is not new, but this recipe's specific combination of white chocolate and cinnamon cereal gives it a distinctive, sweet-spicy flavor profile.

Regional Variations

While Cinnamon Toast Crunch bars are popular across the United States, variations exist depending on regional preferences for cereals and types of chocolate. In some areas, people might use milk or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a more intense flavor. Similarly, in the Midwest or Southern regions, variations might include the addition of crushed nuts, like pecans or almonds, for an extra crunch. However, the basic concept of combining cinnamon cereal with chocolate remains consistent, making it a beloved treat across many regions.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Though Cinnamon Toast Crunch bars may seem similar to other cereal bars, such as Rice Krispies treats or chocolate-covered granola bars, the flavor profile and texture set them apart. Rice Krispies treats use a marshmallow base, while these bars rely on creamy white chocolate to bind the cereal. Additionally, the presence of ground cinnamon in the Cinnamon Toast Crunch bars adds a spiced flavor thats not typically found in most cereal-based treats. The cinnamon sweetness combined with the richness of white chocolate gives these bars a unique, comforting flavor that sets them apart from traditional snack bars.

Where Are They Typically Served?

White Chocolate Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars are often served as an easy, fun dessert at casual gatherings. They're particularly popular as a snack for kids, making them a staple at birthday parties or school events. These bars are also a hit at bake sales or as a quick treat for after-school snacks. Their simplicity and accessibility make them ideal for any occasion that calls for a sweet, no-fuss dessert. In some cases, these bars are even packed as a lunchbox treat for children, offering both crunch and sweetness in one bite.

Interesting Facts

Originally, Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal was introduced in 1984 by General Mills, and it became an instant hit due to its unique cinnamon-sugar coating.
White chocolate, which is technically not chocolate due to the lack of cocoa solids, is made from cocoa butter and has a creamy, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon notes of the cereal.
These bars are an easy, no-bake treat, which means they dont require an oven, making them perfect for quick snack preparations on hot days when turning on the oven isnt desirable.
White chocolate is one of the top ingredients used in dessert recipes in the United States, loved for its mild and creamy taste that complements a variety of flavors.
The popularity of Cinnamon Toast Crunch has inspired various recipes that use the cereal in creative ways, including milkshakes, pies, and even savory dishes like popcorn seasoning.

FAQ about White Chocolate Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars

These bars should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 1-2 weeks. For longer storage, freezing is an option. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Yes, you can substitute white chocolate with milk chocolate or dark chocolate if preferred. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the bars may change slightly. Dark chocolate will offer a more intense chocolate flavor, while milk chocolate will make the bars sweeter.

While the recipe is designed for a 12-well silicone snack bar pan, you can use any type of bar or mini muffin pan you have on hand. Just be sure to line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure the bars come out easily once set.

The bars should set at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes until the white chocolate hardens completely. If you're in a hurry, you can place them in the fridge to speed up the process.

Yes, you can prepare these bars a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container as recommended, and they will stay fresh. If refrigerated, be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

If you don't have Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, you can substitute with another cinnamon-flavored cereal or even crushed graham crackers for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the amount depending on the texture you're aiming for.

The white chocolate is melted properly when it is smooth and glossy with no lumps. Be sure to melt it in short 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each, to prevent it from burning. If using a double boiler, the chocolate should melt evenly over low heat.

While Cinnamon Toast Crunch adds a distinct flavor and crunch, you can experiment with other cereals that have a similar texture and flavor, like Cheerios or even Rice Krispies. The flavor will change, but it can still work well for this recipe.

Cook Time: 3 minutes