Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal

If you’re a sourdough baker, chances are you’ve got a jar of sourdough discard sitting in your fridge. Instead of tossing it, why not turn it into something irresistibly nostalgic—homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal? This recipe uses that tangy, fermented discard to craft a crunchy, cinnamon-sugar cereal that’s perfect for snacking or enjoying with milk.

This isn’t just a clever way to reduce food waste—it’s also a chance to control the ingredients in a typically sugar-heavy breakfast favorite. You’ll get the classic cinnamon flavor, a satisfying crunch, and a subtle sourdough tang that adds depth and character.

Whether you’re making it for yourself, your kids, or just want to recreate a childhood favorite with a grown-up twist, this sourdough discard Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal delivers big flavor and texture in every bite. Let’s get baking!

🕒 Cooking Time & Serving Size

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes

• Cool Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour

• Servings: Makes about 4 cups of cereal (6–8 servings)

🧾 Ingredients

For the Dough:

• ½ cup sourdough discard (unfed, room temperature)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp sugar (white or coconut sugar)

• 2 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil

• 1 tbsp milk (any kind)

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp melted butter (for brushing)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.

2. Mix until a smooth dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky. If needed, add a sprinkle of flour.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper.

3. Roll it out very thin—about 1/16-inch thickness or less. The thinner, the crispier.

4. Peel off the top parchment layer.

Step 3: Score and Season

1. Using a pizza cutter or knife, score the dough into small squares (about ½-inch).

2. Brush the top with melted butter.

3. Mix the cinnamon and sugar together, then sprinkle evenly over the surface.

Step 4: Bake

1. Transfer the parchment paper with the dough onto a baking sheet.

2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, rotating halfway through for even browning.

3. If the edges brown faster, remove them early and let the center bake a few more minutes.

Step 5: Cool and Break Apart

1. Let the baked dough cool for 10 minutes—it will crisp up more as it cools.

2. Break or snap into small cereal-sized pieces along the scored lines.

3. Store in an airtight container once completely cooled.

📝 Notes

• The key to crisp cereal is rolling the dough very thin. Too thick, and it will turn out soft or chewy.

• This cereal can double as a crunchy snack!

• Use a mix of white and brown sugar in the coating for extra caramel flavor.

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

• Want it extra sweet? Dust with a bit more cinnamon sugar right after baking.

❓FAQs

Q: Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
A: Yes, but the flavor may be less tangy. Discard gives that signature sourdough depth.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Results may vary slightly in texture.

Q: Can I freeze the dough or cereal?
A: You can freeze the dough for up to 1 month. Fully baked cereal is best stored at room temperature to preserve crispness.

Q: Is this a kid-friendly recipe?
A: Absolutely! Kids love the cinnamon sugar flavor—and you’ll love that it’s homemade and lower in sugar than store-bought.

🔢 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – approx. ⅔ cup)

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This recipe is intended as a fun, homemade twist on a classic cereal and should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Always eat in moderation. Those with gluten or dairy allergies should use suitable substitutions and check all ingredients carefully for allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice specific to your needs.