I am so excited to share my absolute favorite treat that combines the nostalgia of a childhood cereal with a protein-packed twist: the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe. I love how this recipe transforms a simple cereal into a creamy, dreamy dessert that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s perfect when I want something sweet but also a little nutritious, and the Ninja Creami makes the whole process so easy and fun. If you’re a fan of cinnamon, creamy textures, and a cool treat, this recipe is going to become your new go-to!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe

What I find totally irresistible about this Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe is its vibrant flavor profile. It’s sweet but balanced with warm cinnamon and the unmistakable crunch of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal. The vanilla protein powder adds a subtle creaminess and a boost of nutrition without overpowering the flavors. When I make this, I truly feel like I’m eating a rich dessert but with the bonus of protein, which makes it guilt-free in my book.

Another thing that sold me on this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. I don’t have to worry about complicated steps or long cooking times. It’s mostly about mixing, letting flavors meld, freezing, and then letting the Ninja Creami work its magic. For those evenings when I want a homemade dessert without stress, this hits the spot perfectly. Plus, it’s fantastic for special breakfasts, snack times, or impressing friends at parties—everyone always asks for the recipe once they try it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of small square cereal pieces layered on a white spoon. The cereal pieces are light brown with a slightly rough texture and visible specks of sugar and cinnamon. The spoon holds about five cereal squares stacked unevenly, showing crisp edges and a mix of smooth and grainy surfaces. More similar cereal squares are scattered around the spoon on a white marbled surface, with soft lighting highlighting their crunchy texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Believe me when I say that the magic of this Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtful ingredients. Each one enhances the creamy texture, sweet cinnamon flavor, or the signature crunch, creating a perfect balance in every bite.

Fairlife skim milk: Provides a creamy base with added protein, keeping it smooth without extra fat.
Unsweetened almond milk: Adds a light, nutty undertone and stretches the creaminess while keeping it light.
Vanilla protein powder: Gives a sweet, rich vanilla flavor and a great protein boost to keep you satisfied.
Sugar-free vanilla jello pudding mix: A clever thickener that enhances creaminess without extra sugar.
Ground cinnamon: Essential for that warm, comforting spice that ties the whole dish together.
Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal: Adds the signature cinnamon sugar crunch flavor both inside the ice cream and as a topping.

Directions

Step 1: In your Ninja Creami pint container, pour in the Fairlife skim milk and unsweetened almond milk up to the max fill line. Add in the vanilla protein powder, sugar-free vanilla pudding mix, and ground cinnamon. Use a handheld frother to mix everything thoroughly until smooth and well combined. Then, gently fold in 2/3 cup of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal.

Step 2: Let the cereal soak in the milk mixture for about 15 minutes. This step is key because it allows the flavors to merge, and that slight cereal soak keeps some of the cinnamon goodness infused without making the mixture soggy. After soaking, carefully remove the cereal pieces with a spoon or strainer, leaving the infused milk mixture behind.

Step 3: Seal the pint container tightly and place it in the freezer for 24 hours. It’s very important that the mixture freezes solid to allow the Ninja Creami to do its magic.

Step 4: Once frozen, remove the pint from the freezer. Run the outer container under warm water for about 60 seconds. This warms the sides slightly, making it easier to insert your pint into the Ninja Creami machine and protects the blade from damage if the surface isn’t level. Make sure the top of your pint is perfectly flat for the best results.

Step 5: Install the pint into the machine, select the “Lite Ice Cream” button, and let the Ninja Creami spin. After the first cycle, check the texture. If it’s still powdery or crumbly, simply press the “Re-spin” button once or twice until you get that perfect creamy consistency.

Step 6: Finally, add back in some of the reserved Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal as a mix-in. Use the “Mix-in” function on the Ninja Creami, which combines the crunchy texture beautifully with the creamy ice cream. Now, you’re ready to enjoy every luscious spoonful!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 1 generous serving, perfect for a personal indulgence or a quick snack. The prep time is incredibly short—only about 10 minutes to mix and set up. However, the freezing time requires a full 24 hours for best results to ensure that the ice cream mixture becomes firm enough for the machine. The actual spinning and mixing only take a few minutes, so overall timing is mostly hands-off but well worth the wait.

How to Serve This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe

A clear glass cup filled with one layer of light tan foam, featuring a soft, uneven texture and a small mound in the center with slightly rough edges. The cup is placed on a white marbled surface, and the foam shows gentle bubbles and a creamy consistency. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this ice cream, I love to keep things simple yet fun. A small bowl or a pretty glass dessert cup works beautifully to show off the creamy texture and specks of cinnamon sprinkled throughout. To elevate the presentation, I add extra Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal on top for a crunchy contrast that excites my palate with each bite.

For beverage pairings, I often enjoy it alongside a hot cup of black coffee or a cinnamon-spiced tea to complement the flavors perfectly. If I’m serving it at a gathering, a sparkling apple cider or a light vanilla latte pairs wonderfully with the dessert’s cozy sweetness.

This ice cream shines during warm afternoons, cozy movie nights, or even as a post-workout treat due to the protein content. I always recommend serving it straight from the Ninja Creami machine, chilled and creamy, rather than letting it melt too much—this way you enjoy the best texture and flavor in every spoonful.

Variations

One of the reasons I adore this Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe is how easily it can be personalized. For example, if you want to keep things dairy-free, swapping the Fairlife skim milk for oat milk or coconut milk works beautifully and adds a subtle richness. Just remember the protein powder choice should align with your dietary needs if you’re vegan or gluten-free.

I’m also a fan of experimenting with flavors: try adding a dash of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to give the ice cream an extra layer of warmth and depth. If you prefer a chocolate twist, stirring in some cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips before freezing delivers that delightful surprise. Using different cereals or granola as a mix-in could also add new textures and tastes.

If you don’t have a Ninja Creami, you can try this recipe by freezing the base in an ice cube tray, then blending it in a powerful blender until creamy. While it won’t have the exact texture of the Ninja Creami finish, it’s still a delicious alternative with less equipment needed.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers of this ice cream (which is rare in my house!), I store them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and moisture. I prefer glass containers with tight lids or sturdy plastic containers. Leftovers keep best for up to one week in the freezer, but I recommend enjoying it sooner for the freshest flavor and creamy texture.

Freezing

This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe freezes really well. After making your first batch, you can keep additional pints prepped and frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to freeze them flat with a secure lid to prevent ice crystals from forming. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply run under warm water briefly, then spin in the Ninja Creami to refresh the texture.

Reheating

Since this is a frozen treat, “reheating” isn’t really recommended in the traditional sense. Instead of warming it, I find that letting the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes softens it just enough to scoop easily without losing that creamy texture. Avoid microwave reheating, as that melts the creaminess and changes the texture drastically, making it more icy than smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein powder for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any vanilla-flavored protein powder you like, whether whey, plant-based, or collagen. Just make sure it dissolves well in milk to keep the texture smooth. If it tastes bitter, you might want to add a little natural sweetener to balance it out.

What if I don’t have a Ninja Creami machine? Can I still make this?

You can! Freeze the mixture in an ice cube tray and then blend the frozen cubes in a high-speed blender until creamy. It’ll be a little different in texture, but still taste amazing. Alternatively, you can stir the mixture every 30 minutes while freezing to break up ice crystals.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe itself is gluten-free except for the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, which contains gluten. You can substitute with a gluten-free cinnamon cereal to keep the cinnamon flavor and maintain the texture if gluten is a concern.

How does the sugar-free vanilla pudding mix affect the recipe?

It adds a wonderful thickness and creamy texture without extra sugar, making the ice cream rich and smooth. If you don’t have pudding mix, you can replace it with a small amount of cornstarch or skip it, but the texture might be a little less luxurious.

Can I add more cereal for extra crunch?

Yes! I love mixing in extra Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal after the churning process for bursts of crunchiness throughout the ice cream. You can also sprinkle some on top just before serving for a delightful presentation and texture contrast.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe. It’s truly one of my favorite ways to enjoy a delicious, comforting dessert while still packing in some protein and wholesome flavors. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or looking for a unique dessert to impress friends, this recipe hits every mark. Give it a go, and I can’t wait for you to discover your own love for this creamy, crunchy delight!