Pin It This blended drink captures the nostalgic flavor of cinnamon-sweet cereal in a creamy, frothy coffee beverage. The combination of strong brewed coffee, whole milk, and heavy cream creates a rich base that perfectly balances the warm spice of ground cinnamon and vanilla sweetness.
Actual cereal pieces are blended into the mixture, infusing that distinctive Cinnamon Toast Crunch taste throughout. The result is a thick, frosty drink that's equally satisfying as a morning pick-me-up or afternoon treat.
Customizing is simple: adjust the ice for thickness, swap in cold brew concentrate for extra coffee kick, or use plant-based alternatives to make it dairy-free. The optional straining step ensures a smooth texture, though leaving the cereal pulp adds more authentic flavor and fiber.
The first time I attempted this, my daughter looked at me like I had completely lost my mind when she saw me dumping handfuls of her favorite cereal into the blender. But one sip later, she was converted and now requests these on lazy Saturday mornings.
Last summer, I made a batch for my neighbors during our weekly porch hangouts, and suddenly I was the designated frappe maker for the entire block. Something about that cinnamon sugar crunch brings out the kid in everyone.
Ingredients
- Whole milk or plant based alternative: The cream factor matters here so whole milk gives the best results but oat milk surprisingly holds its own
- Heavy cream: This small amount makes all the difference between a watery slush and a luxurious frappe
- Strong brewed coffee: Brew it extra bold then let it cool completely because hot coffee melts ice too fast
- Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal: One cup goes into the blender and save some for garnish because that crunch on top is essential
- Granulated sugar: The cereal brings sweetness but this helps balance the coffee bitterness
- Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla ties everything together with that classic bakery flavor
- Ground cinnamon: Extra cinnamon amplifies the cereal notes and adds warmth
- Ice cubes: Two cups gives that thick frosty texture you want from a frappe
Instructions
- Blend everything together:
- Toss in your milk, cream, cooled coffee, cereal cups of ice, sugar, vanilla, and extra cinnamon then blitz on high speed until completely smooth and frothy about one to two minutes.
- Strain if you prefer smooth:
- Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to catch any cereal pulp though I usually skip this step because the tiny bits of cereal add such nice texture.
- Pour and garnish:
- Divide between two tall glasses then top with whipped cream a handful of extra cereal and another pinch of cinnamon because the presentation is half the fun.
Pin It My husband initially turned his nose up at what he called a glorified milkshake but now hes the first one asking if were having frappe weekends. Watch out because these are dangerously easy to drink.
Making It Thicker
Ive learned that freezing some of the milk in ice cube trays overnight gives you an ultra thick frappe without diluting the flavor. Regular ice works perfectly fine but this little trick makes it feel like a coffee shop drink.
Coffee Variations
Cold brew concentrate creates a smoother less acidic flavor profile that really lets the cinnamon shine through. Decaf works great if you want the taste without the jitters especially for afternoon treats.
Dairy Free Swaps
Oat milk has become my go to nondairy option because it naturally replicates that creamy mouthfeel you get from dairy. Coconut whipped cream on top adds a lovely tropical twist that actually complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- Save some cereal crumbs for rimming the glass
- Blend a banana in for extra creaminess and sweetness
- Makes two generous servings but you might want to double it
Pin It Theres something wonderfully nostalgic about sipping one of these on a slow morning. Pure comfort in a glass.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this without coffee?
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Yes, simply replace the coffee with additional milk or a coffee alternative. You'll still get the creamy cinnamon-cereal flavor, just without the caffeine kick. Try using chocolate milk for an extra indulgent variation.
- → Do I have to strain the mixture?
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Straining is optional and depends on your texture preference. Straining removes any remaining cereal pulp for a smoother drink, while leaving it unstrained provides more authentic cereal flavor and a slightly thicker consistency with added fiber.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
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Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk. For the whipped cream topping, use coconut whipped cream or a dairy-free whipped topping. The flavor remains delicious with these plant-based alternatives.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
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For best results, blend and serve immediately. However, you can brew and cool the coffee ahead of time, or pre-measure dry ingredients. The blended mixture will separate if stored, so it's meant to be enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and frothiness.
- → What type of coffee works best?
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Strong brewed coffee works well, but cold brew concentrate provides an even bolder coffee flavor that stands up to the sweet cinnamon notes. If you prefer less caffeine, decaf coffee is a great substitute without sacrificing taste.
- → How do I make it thicker?
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Add more ice cubes for a thicker consistency, or freeze the milk in ice cube trays ahead of time and use those instead of regular ice. This prevents dilution while creating an ultra-creamy, milkshake-like texture.
