Peanut Butter Cheerios Bars Recipe
These Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are a quick and easy no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter, honey, and crunchy Cheerios for a deliciously sweet and satisfying snack. With optional chocolate chips for added indulgence, these bars are perfect for lunchboxes, road trips, or anytime you need a wholesome, homemade energy boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Cereal and Toppings
- 4 cups plain Cheerios cereal
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure the bars do not stick and are easy to remove once set.
- Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan set over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, honey, and light brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, bubbly, and well combined, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Then remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
- Mix with Cereal: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the Cheerios placed in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly to coat all the cereal pieces evenly with the sticky peanut butter mixture.
- Press into Dish: Transfer the coated Cheerios mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using a spatula or clean hands, firmly press the mixture to compact it evenly into the dish. If desired, sprinkle the mini chocolate chips on top and press them lightly into the surface.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool and set at room temperature for about 1 hour or refrigerate them for 30 minutes to speed up the process. Once set, cut into bars and serve as a delicious snack or treat.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and use vegan chocolate chips.
- Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan helps the bars hold together better and prevents crumbling.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can also add nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
- If you prefer less sweetness, omit the brown sugar.
Find it online: https://forkvista.com/peanut-butter-cheerios-bars-recipe/
