Ooey, chewy No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are a delightful treat that everyone loves! Perfect for parties, school snacks, or just a quick energy boost, these bars combine the crunchy goodness of Cheerios with creamy peanut butter and a hint of sweetness. They are easy to make and require no baking, making them a go-to recipe for busy days or spontaneous gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and another 10 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
- No Baking Required: This recipe is perfect for those who want a delightful dessert without the hassle of using an oven.
- Versatile Snack: Customize your bars by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even swapping out peanuts for your favorite nuts.
- Kid-Friendly: Children love helping out in the kitchen with this simple recipe. It’s a fun way to engage them in cooking!
- Healthy Indulgence: Packed with peanuts and whole grain Cheerios, these bars offer a tasty yet nutritious snack option.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick spray
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick spray: Prevents the mixture from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for heating the sugar and corn syrup—this step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for mixing everything together smoothly.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 ¼ cups light corn syrup
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
For Texture
- 1 cup peanuts
- 6 cups Cheerios
How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray and set it aside. This will ensure your bars come out easily once they’re set.
Step 2: Heat Sugar Mixture
In a medium saucepan, mix together white sugar and light corn syrup. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter
Once boiling, remove the pan from heat. Add in peanut butter and vanilla, stirring until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, pour in Cheerios and peanuts. Pour the peanut butter mixture over this combination. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 5: Set the Bars
Spread the Cheerio mixture into your prepared baking pan evenly. Allow it to cool completely before cutting it into bars.
These deliciously chewy No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion! Enjoy them as an afternoon snack or pack them in lunchboxes for a delightful treat.
How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the bars perfectly. Choose whole, almond, or oat milk for different flavors.
As a Lunchbox Treat
- Cut the bars into smaller pieces and pack them in lunchboxes. Kids love them, and they make a great midday energy boost!
Crumbled Over Yogurt
- Break the bars into chunks and sprinkle over your favorite yogurt. This adds a crunchy texture and peanut flavor to your breakfast or snack.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside fresh fruit like bananas or apples for a balanced snack. The freshness balances out the sweetness of the bars.
As a Party Snack
- Cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters for a festive touch at parties. They are sure to be a hit among guests.
How to Perfect No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
Creating the perfect No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your recipe.
- Use creamy peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter gives your bars a smoother texture, making them easier to mix and eat.
- Measure ingredients accurately: Precision is key! Make sure you measure all ingredients correctly for consistent results every time.
- Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting ensures they hold their shape better when sliced.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or seeds for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Store properly: Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Best Side Dishes for No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider when serving these tasty treats.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the bars.
- Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy veggies dipped in hummus offer a savory contrast to the sweet bars.
- Trail Mix: Combine nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for an energy-boosting side that complements the chewy texture.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses provides a savory option that pairs well with sweet snacks.
- Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and berries for a wholesome dessert that enhances your snack experience.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty-sweet combo makes this treat an enjoyable contrast to the bar’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the nonstick spray: Always spray your pan with nonstick spray. This prevents the bars from sticking and makes removal easier.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision matters! Use proper measuring cups for sugar and peanut butter to ensure the right texture and sweetness.
- Overheating the mixture: When boiling the sugar and corn syrup, avoid excessive heat. Boil just until bubbles form to keep the bars chewy.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allowing the mixture to cool completely before cutting is crucial. Cutting too soon can result in messy bars that fall apart.
- Not mixing thoroughly: Ensure that the peanut butter mixture coats all Cheerios and peanuts evenly. This guarantees every bite is full of flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
- Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat bars on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming each bar for 1-2 minutes until soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars?
No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are easy-to-make treats using Cheerios, peanut butter, sugar, and corn syrup. They require no baking and are perfect for snacking!
How long do No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these bars can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.
Can I use other cereals instead of Cheerios?
Absolutely! You can substitute Cheerios with other cereals like Rice Krispies or Cornflakes for different textures and flavors.
Are No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars healthy?
While they contain sugar and peanut butter, these bars provide some protein and fiber. Enjoy them as an occasional treat within a balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
These No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top. They make a perfect snack or dessert option that’s sure to please everyone! Give this recipe a try today!
No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the deliciousness of No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars, a quick and easy treat that combines the crunchy goodness of Cheerios with creamy peanut butter and a touch of sweetness. Ideal for parties, school snacks, or a quick energy boost, these bars require no baking—making them perfect for busy days or spontaneous gatherings. In just 20 minutes, you can prepare a delightful dessert that both kids and adults will love. Customize your bars by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or your favorite nuts for an extra twist!
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 ¼ cups light corn syrup
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup peanuts (optional)
- 6 cups Cheerios
Instructions
- Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
- In a medium saucepan, mix white sugar and corn syrup; bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Cheerios and peanuts; pour the peanut butter mixture over them.
- Stir until evenly coated, then spread into the prepared pan and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For creamier texture, use creamy peanut butter. Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for unique flavors. Ensure bars cool completely to maintain their shape when sliced.