Save to Pinterest This blended coffee drink captures the nostalgic cinnamon-sugar flavors of the classic breakfast cereal in a frosty, sippable form. The combination of strong brewed coffee, whole milk, and heavy cream creates a rich, velvety base that perfectly balances the sweet crunch of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal blended right into the mix. Ground cinnamon and vanilla extract amplify those warm baking spices everyone loves, while plenty of ice ensures an ultra-thick, milkshake-like texture that makes this feel like a special indulgence.
The blending process infuses the dairy with that signature cinnamon-sugar taste, creating a uniquely flavorful frappe that's both refreshing and comforting. For the smoothest result, strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove any cereal pulp, though some enjoy the extra texture. Top with whipped cream and additional cereal pieces for the ultimate presentation that rivals any coffee shop creation.
The first time I made this frappe, my kitchen smelled exactly like Saturday mornings in elementary school when wed pour huge bowls of cinnamon cereal while watching cartoons. That hit of nostalgia hit me so hard I actually laughed out loud while the blender was running.
Last summer my sister came over and I made these for us. We sat on the back porch sipping them through straws and she literally said this tastes like drinking my childhood. We ended up making three batches that afternoon.
Ingredients
- Whole milk: Creates that rich creamy base but oat milk works beautifully if you need dairy free
- Heavy cream: The secret to making it feel like a coffeehouse frappe instead of just a blended drink
- Strong brewed coffee: Use something bold since the milk and cream will mellow it out significantly
- Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal: Do not skimp here because the cereal steeping in the liquid is what makes this magic happen
- Granulated sugar: Balances the coffee bitterness and complements the cereals sweetness
- Vanilla extract: Adds that warm comforting flavor that ties everything together
- Ground cinnamon: Extra warmth that makes the drink feel cozy even on hot days
- Ice cubes: Essential for that slushy frappe texture we are aiming for
Instructions
- Blend everything together:
- Toss the milk, heavy cream, cooled coffee, cereal cups, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and ice into your blender. The cereal will soften and infuse all that cinnamon sugar goodness into the liquid.
- Blend until completely smooth:
- Pulse on high speed for one to two minutes until you cannot see any ice chunks and the mixture looks frothy and uniform.
- Strain for the perfect texture:
- Pour the blended frappe through a fine mesh sieve into a measuring cup to catch the soggy cereal pieces. This step is worth the extra thirty seconds for that silky smooth mouthfeel.
- Pour and crown with toppings:
- Divide between two tall glasses and go wild with whipped cream, extra cereal pieces, and another pinch of cinnamon on top.
Save to Pinterest My friend who works at a coffee shop tried one and admitted this might be better than their version. That is the highest compliment I have ever received.
Making It Thicker
Freeze some of the milk in ice cube trays ahead of time. Throw those frozen milk cubes in place of regular ice for an incredibly thick and creamy frappe that does not water down as it sits.
Coffee Swaps
Cold brew concentrate gives you a smoother less bitter kick while decaf works great if you want the flavor without the jitters. Espresso works too but use less since its so concentrated.
Dairy Free Hacks
Oat milk blends up creamy and does not compete with the cinnamon flavor. Coconut whipped cream on top creates that indulgent finish without any dairy in sight.
- Save the strained cereal pulp and stir it into yogurt or oatmeal
- Make extra coffee in the morning and refrigerate the leftovers for frappes all week
- Keep a baggie of crushed cereal in the freezer for quick garnish
Save to Pinterest Sip slowly and enjoy the way each spoonful of whipped cream brings back memories of cereal milk at the bottom of the bowl. Sometimes the best drinks are the ones that feel like a hug.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
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Absolutely. Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with oat, almond, or coconut milk. Use coconut whipped cream for the topping to keep it entirely plant-based while maintaining that creamy texture.
- → Do I have to strain the blended mixture?
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Straining is optional but recommended for the smoothest texture. The fine mesh sieve removes any remaining cereal pulp, leaving you with a perfectly silky frappe. If you don't mind some texture, you can skip this step.
- → Can I use cold brew instead of hot brewed coffee?
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Yes, cold brew concentrate works beautifully and provides an even stronger coffee flavor. You might want to reduce the amount slightly since cold brew tends to be more concentrated than regular brewed coffee.
- → How can I make this frappe thicker?
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Add more ice cubes for immediate thickness, or freeze your milk in ice cube trays ahead of time and use those instead. Both methods create an ultra-thick, milkshake-like consistency perfect for slow sipping.
- → Is there a gluten-free option?
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Look for certified gluten-free cinnamon cereals that replicate the Cinnamon Toast Crunch flavor profile. Many brands now offer similar cinnamon-sweet cereals that are gluten-free and will work perfectly in this blended drink.
