If you have a stash of stale bread crusts and a sweet tooth craving a quick, delightful snack, then you’re in for a treat with this Cinnamon Sugar Bread Crust Treats Recipe. It transforms simple, overlooked bread crusts into golden, crunchy bites bursting with warm cinnamon spice and sugary sweetness. The magic is in the simplicity—just a few pantry staples turn ordinary scraps into something addictive and cozy, perfect for sharing or enjoying any time you want a little homemade comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays an important role. From lending richness to the butter to bringing that classic sweet-spice punch from the cinnamon and sugar, these ingredients combine to create irresistible texture and flavor in every crunchy bite.
- 6 cups bread crusts: Use preferably stale crusts for extra crunch and to ensure they crisp up beautifully.
- 60 g / 2 oz / 4 tbsp butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick perfectly.
- 5 tbsp sugar: Sweetens the treat, with a bit left for that final sparkling touch.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Brings that warm, cozy flavor that makes these treats unforgettable.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Bread Crust Treats Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 180C/350F, setting the stage for that perfect golden crunch. This step is essential to ensure even baking once the crusts hit the trays.
Step 2: Cut the Bread Crusts
Cut your bread crusts into roughly 3cm (1.5-inch) pieces. This size is just right to create small, bite-sized treats that will crisp quickly and evenly.
Step 3: Butter Up the Crusts
Place the cut bread crusts in a large bowl. Drizzle melted butter over them, tossing as you go to coat each piece evenly. The butter not only adds flavor, but it also helps the sugar and cinnamon stick perfectly to every morsel.
Step 4: Sprinkle Sugar and Cinnamon
Sprinkle 4 tablespoons of sugar and the teaspoon of cinnamon over your butter-coated crusts. Toss everything together so each piece gets a nice dusting of sweetness and spice.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Trays
Spread the coated crusts evenly across two baking trays. Giving them plenty of space ensures they bake to a golden brown and become wonderfully crunchy instead of soggy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 8 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, especially those in the middle of the trays. The tray placed on the top shelf will finish first, while the bottom tray may need a few extra minutes.
Step 7: Final Sugar Sprinkle
While the treats are still hot, sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar over the two trays (approximately half a tablespoon per tray). This last step adds a sparkling sugar finish that makes these treats even more tempting.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Bread Crust Treats Recipe
Garnishes
These crunchy cinnamon sugar bites shine on their own, but for a little extra flair, sprinkle some powdered sugar or a pinch of extra cinnamon right before serving. You can even toss them briefly with a dusting of nutmeg or chopped nuts for subtle texture variations.
Side Dishes
Serve these treats alongside a warm cup of black coffee or your favorite tea. They also pair wonderfully with sweet dips like cream cheese frosting, chocolate spread, or a vanilla yogurt dip to elevate snack time into a cozy indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering these treats in a clear jar or a bowl for a visually inviting snack display. They also make a fantastic crunchy topping for ice cream or baked fruit crisps. Gift them in decorative bags or mason jars for an easy and heartfelt homemade present.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Sugar Bread Crust Treats Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They hold their crispness well for about 2 to 3 days, making them ideal for snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze the treats in a sealed container or freezer bag. When properly stored, they can last up to 1 month in the freezer without losing their texture or flavor.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven crunch, reheat the treats in a preheated 180C/350F oven for 3 to 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy rather than crispy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread crusts for this recipe?
While stale bread crusts work best because they crisp up nicely, fresh crusts can still be used. Just keep baking until they are golden and crunchy, but be extra vigilant to avoid burning.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread crusts in place of regular ones. Just be sure the bread is stale so it bakes up crispy and delicious.
Can I substitute the butter with a healthier option?
Yes, melted coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative can work well for coating. They provide a slightly different flavor but still help the cinnamon sugar stick and the treats crisp up beautifully.
How do I prevent the crust treats from becoming soggy?
To keep them crisp, spread the bread crusts in a single layer without overcrowding the trays and bake them until golden. Let them cool completely before storing.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even a splash of vanilla extract to the sugar mixture can add a delicious twist to this Cinnamon Sugar Bread Crust Treats Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Bread Crust Treats Recipe is such a wonderful way to turn simple leftovers into an irresistible snack. It’s quick, easy, and utterly delightful—perfect for cozy afternoons or unexpected guests. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy bread crusts with a warm cinnamon hug in every crunchy bite.
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Bread Crust Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Sugar Bread Crust Treats are a quick and delicious snack made by tossing bread crusts in melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar, then baking until golden and crunchy. These treats are perfect for using up leftover or stale bread crusts, delivering a sweet and crispy bite that’s ideal for snacking or dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 6 cups bread crusts (enough to spread out over 2 baking trays), preferably stale
- 60 g / 2 oz / 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 5 tbsp sugar (divided: 4 tbsp and 1 tbsp)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the bread crusts.
- Cut Bread Crusts: Cut the bread crusts into approximately 3cm (1.5 inch) pieces to ensure even cooking and crunchiness.
- Coat with Butter: Place the bread crust pieces in a large bowl and drizzle the melted butter over them. Toss with your other hand to evenly coat all the pieces with butter.
- Add Cinnamon and Sugar: Sprinkle 4 tablespoons of sugar and the teaspoon of cinnamon over the buttered crusts. Toss everything together thoroughly to distribute the cinnamon sugar mix evenly over the bread.
- Arrange on Baking Trays: Spread the coated bread crust pieces out evenly over two baking trays to ensure they bake evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 8 minutes until the bread crusts turn golden brown and become crunchy. Note that the tray on the top shelf will finish slightly earlier, while the bottom tray may take a couple of minutes longer, so keep an eye on them.
- Final Sugar Sprinkle: Immediately after removing from the oven and while still hot, sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar over the two trays (about 1/2 tablespoon per tray). This step is primarily for appearance, giving the treats a nice sparkle.
Notes
- Use stale bread crusts for best texture and crunch.
- Ensure pieces are evenly coated with butter for uniform browning.
- Watch closely while baking to prevent burning, especially the tray on the top shelf.
- You can adjust cinnamon and sugar quantities to taste.
- Serve as a sweet snack or a crunchy dessert topping.
