Cinnamon Breakfast Bites Recipe

If you love quick, delicious, and slightly nostalgic breakfast treats, then you’re going to adore this Cinnamon Breakfast Bites Recipe. They’re perfectly bite-sized, packed with cinnamon-sugar goodness, and so simple to whip up on a busy morning or for a cozy weekend brunch. I absolutely love how these little beauties turn out crisp on the outside and tender inside — plus, they’ve become a staple in my household because my whole family goes crazy for them. Stick around and I’ll share how you can easily make these cinnamon breakfast bites your next favorite grab-and-go morning treat.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Breakfast Bites Recipe is that it uses simple pantry staples that come together to create such a comforting, sweet treat. The crushed Rice Krispies add a subtly crisp texture that pairs wonderfully with the warm cinnamon sugar coating. I always recommend using fresh cinnamon and good-quality shortening for the best flavor.

• Flour: Use all-purpose flour to give these bites structure without weighing them down.
• Rice Krispies Cereal: Crushing the cereal coarsely creates a unique, crunchy texture that’s a game-changer.
• Sugar: Divided between the dough and the cinnamon coating for just the right amount of sweetness.
• Baking Powder: Ensures your bites rise just enough for a tender crumb.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Butter Flavored Shortening: I love how this adds buttery flavor with less greasiness than butter.
• Milk: Just enough to moisten the dough without making it too sticky.
• Cinnamon: The star spice here, make sure it’s fresh for that warm punch of flavor.
• Butter (melted): Used for dipping before the cinnamon sugar — adds richness and helps the coating stick perfectly.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Cinnamon Breakfast Bites Recipe is how you can make it your own. Whether you want to switch up the sweetener, add some extras, or make it gluten-free, there’s always an easy tweak to try that fits your taste.

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and make sure your Rice Krispies are gluten-free for a safe alternative — tastes just as good!
• Add Nuts or Seeds: I once tossed in some chopped pecans before baking for an extra crunch that my family actually raved about.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a cozy autumn vibe.
• Maple Twist: Replace some of the sugar with maple syrup in the dough for a richer sweetness.

How to Make Cinnamon Breakfast Bites Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the flour, coarsely crushed Rice Krispies, 2 tablespoons of sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. I like to crush the cereal with my hands so the pieces are chunky and add great texture. This step sets the stage, so be sure your dry ingredients are well mixed before moving on.

Step 2: Cut in the Shortening

Next, cut in the butter-flavored shortening until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. I find using a pastry cutter makes this easier, but if you don’t have one, just use two forks or your fingers quickly. This is what helps create that tender yet slightly flaky texture in the bites.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Pour in the milk and stir just until the dough is moistened. The dough will be on the drier side, but that’s exactly how you want it. If it seems too dry and crumbly, add an additional teaspoon of milk carefully — but avoid making it overly wet as that changes the final texture.

Step 4: Shape the Bites

Form the mixture into 1-inch balls with your hands. I find it easiest to keep a small bowl of water nearby to dampen my fingers — this prevents the dough from sticking and helps keep the shapes nice and consistent.

Step 5: Coat with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and ⅔ cup of sugar. Dip each dough ball into melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Don’t skimp on this part — it’s where the magic happens and creates an irresistible sweet crust.

Step 6: Bake

Arrange the coated balls in a single layer in an 8-inch square baking dish that you’ve lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Bake at 420°F for 15 to 17 minutes. I keep a close eye starting at the 15 minute mark because the sugar coating can brown fast. What you’re looking for is a golden edge and a lightly browned cinnamon sugar top.

How to Serve Cinnamon Breakfast Bites Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping these cinnamon bites with a light drizzle of honey or even a bit of cream cheese glaze when I want to dress them up. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch, especially if you’re serving guests.

Side Dishes

Pair these bites with fresh fruit like sliced apples, berries, or a fruit salad for a balanced breakfast. A cup of your favorite coffee or chai tea is my go-to, especially on chilly mornings when I want that warming cinnamon taste to linger.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve these bites in a pretty mason jar with layers of yogurt and berries for a festive parfait effect. Or arrange them on a decorative platter with tiny dipping cups of maple syrup or caramel for a DIY breakfast bite station — always a crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cinnamon breakfast bites in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and tasty for up to four days, making them perfect for prepping ahead on a Sunday to enjoy all week long.

Freezing

Freezing these bites works amazingly well. I freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When properly wrapped, they keep their flavor and texture for up to three months, which is great for busy mornings.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes — this brings back the crispy edges like they’re fresh from the oven. Microwave is okay in a pinch, but I prefer the oven for texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Breakfast Bites Recipe truly feels like a little hug in food form. I still remember the first time I baked them for my family—they vanished so fast that I knew they’d become a staple for busy mornings or lazy weekend brunches. If you’re looking for something easy, comforting, and just a bit nostalgic, I can’t recommend these bites enough. Give them a try—you’ll enjoy that perfect blend of cinnamon, sugar, and crispiness every time. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll find yourself coming back for more!

Print