Save to Pinterest Create this indulgent blended coffee drink that captures the beloved flavors of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal. The combination of strong brewed coffee, creamy milk, and actual cereal creates a frothy, sweet beverage that perfectly balances caffeine kick with nostalgic cinnamon sweetness. Blend everything together until smooth, strain if you prefer a silkier texture, then pour into tall glasses and top with whipped cream and extra cereal pieces.
I discovered this drink during a chaotic summer when my air conditioner broke and I needed something cold enough to distract from the heat. The combination of childhood cereal nostalgia and grown up caffeine hit differently than I expected. Now it is the treat my friends actually text me about requesting at every gathering.
Last weekend my roommate wandered into the kitchen asking what smelled like a bakery at 8 AM. I handed her a glass and watched her face light up like a kid on Saturday morning. We sat on the floor in our pajamas debating whether this counts as breakfast or just really responsible coffee drinking.
Ingredients
- Whole milk: The fat content carries that cinnamon sugar flavor better than skim but oat milk creates an equally creamy result
- Heavy cream: This is what makes it feel indulgent rather than just a blended coffee
- Strong brewed coffee: Use something you would drink straight because dilution happens with all the ice
- Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal: The star of the show that infuses the drink with that iconic flavor
- Granulated sugar: Dissolves easier than brown sugar and lets the cinnamon shine
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the sharp coffee notes and bridges the gap with the sweet cream
- Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth that lingers after each sip
- Ice cubes: Essential for texture but do not overdo it or you will lose flavor
Instructions
- Blend everything together:
- Toss the milk, cream, coffee, cereal, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and ice into your blender. Let it rip on high until the cereal mostly disappears and the mixture looks like a coffee milkshake.
- Strain if you want it smooth:
- Pour the blended drink through a fine mesh sieve to catch any remaining cereal pieces. This step is totally up to you and your texture preference.
- Pour and finish strong:
- Divide between two tall glasses and go wild with whipped cream, extra cereal and another dusting of cinnamon. Serve immediately before the ice starts melting too much.
Save to Pinterest My sister claimed she did not like sweet coffee until I made this for her birthday brunch. She has requested it at every family function since then calling it her special occasion coffee despite it taking ten minutes to make.
Make It Thicker
Freeze your milk in ice cube trays the night before for a frappe that stays thick longer. Regular ice dilutes the flavor as it melts but frozen milk keeps everything creamy and strong from first sip to last.
Switch Up The Sweetener
Brown sugar works beautifully here and adds a molasses depth that pairs surprisingly well with cinnamon. Just dissolve it in a splash of hot coffee before blending so you do not end up with gritty sugar at the bottom of your glass.
Coffee Variations
Cold brew concentrate creates a smoother flavor that some people prefer over hot brewed coffee. The choice really comes down to whether you want bright coffee notes or something more mellow and chocolatey.
- Try adding a splash of caramel syrup for an even more dessert like experience
- A pinch of sea salt cuts the sweetness and makes all the flavors pop
- Blend in half a frozen banana for an incredibly thick and creamy version
Save to Pinterest This frappe started as a happy accident but has become the drink I turn to when I need coffee and comfort in the same glass. Hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought my kitchen.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this frappe dairy-free?
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Yes, substitute whole milk with oat or almond milk and use coconut whipped cream for topping. The texture remains creamy and delicious while being completely plant-based.
- → Do I need to strain the blended mixture?
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Straining is optional but recommended if you prefer a smoother texture without cereal pulp. Use a fine mesh sieve to catch any remaining cereal pieces while letting the liquid flow through.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
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This blended drink tastes best when served immediately. The ice melts quickly and the texture changes over time. For best results, blend and serve right away.
- → What coffee works best in this frappe?
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Strong brewed coffee that has been cooled works perfectly. You can also use cold brew concentrate for a bolder flavor profile, or decaf if you want to avoid caffeine.
- → How can I make it thicker?
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Add more ice cubes or freeze your milk in ice cube trays beforehand. This creates an extra-thick, milkshake-like consistency that holds up longer without becoming watery.
- → Is there a gluten-free option?
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Look for certified gluten-free cinnamon cereal alternatives. Many brands offer similar cinnamon-square cereals that are gluten-free, but always check labels to ensure safety.
