Cinnamon Pebbles

Name: Cinnamon Pebbles
Variation: Fruity Pebbles
Manufacturer: Post

Review: Look at this new "cinna-riffic" variation on Fruity Pebbles - it's blasted with cinnamon! Opening the box, it looks and smells strongly of cinnamon. Although the initial flavor is strong, after the Pebbles start to absorb milk, it kinda loses its edge. The closest comparison is Cinnamon Sugar Krispies, and while I would rate this cereal as being marginally better, I'm coming to the same conclusion - that I'd rather have a small bowl on the side. (Also, although I do like the flavor of cinnamon, as a spice, there can be a point at which it's simply too much). I think I'm just not that fond of the texture and mouthfeel of the Pebbles' cereals. Cinnamon Toast Crunch, for example, gives you something substantial to chew on. I'd really much rather have a bowl of Cinnabon.

Rating: 🥣
Leftover Milk: Whatever milk is left will be oversaturated with cinnamon.

The Grinch

Name: The Grinch Dr. Seuss
Variation: n/a
Manufacturer: General Mills

Review: For some reason, The Grinch is super popular this year. I don't know what it is, but I'll take any excuse to try a new cereal. Though it's vanilla, so I don't know how well I'll like it. But at least it has marshmallows! They're cute, too - little pink hearts. It all comes in a pretty green box that is very Christmas-y. Incidentally, I was just listening to a new Christmas song by rock band The Pretty Reckless, featuring Taylor Momsen who played Cindy Lou Who in the Grinch movie (25 years ago!).

I like the green puffs - they're very Grinchy. But the flavor is kind of off-putting. I taste more corn than vanilla. Looking at the nutrition facts, the sugar content is expectedly on the low side. Usually, General Mills nails their tie-ins; this tastes more like a Kellogg's promotional cereal. Did somebody turn the breakfast table upside-down? Or has the Grinch stolen all the flavor? I mean, it wouldn't be uncharacteristic of him. But of cereals based on characters likely to prank the public, I much prefer Wednesday's cereal from last year.

Rating: 🥣
Leftover Milk: Corn milk. Yum.

Honey Bunches of Oats - Sugar Cookie

Name: Honey Bunches of Oats - Sugar Cookie
Variation: Honey Bunches of Oats
Manufacturer: Post

Review: After a short break, we're heading into the holiday rush now, starting with this exciting new flavor of Honey Bunches of Oats! Opening the box, it smells strongly of sugar cookies. But it's not as colorful as the box would suggest - these "festive" red and green sprinkles are barely noticeable. The flavor is good, though. The texture is a lot different from a soft, doughy cookie (that's one thing The Elf on the Shelf got right), but the taste is on point. I might even like it better than Sugar Cookie Toast Crunch! In any case, it's a delightful treat for the holidays.

Rating: 🥣🥣
Leftover Milk: Did somebody order a sugar cookie milkshake?