Peanut Butter Cheerios Energy Bars Recipe
These Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are a deliciously simple no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter, honey, and crunchy Cheerios. Perfect as a quick snack or lunchbox addition, they balance sweetness with a delightful nutty flavor and optional chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes + cooling time
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 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
Dry Ingredients
- 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 prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine peanut butter, honey, and brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Mix with Cereal: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the Cheerios in a large bowl. Stir well until each piece of cereal is evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture.
- Press into Dish: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Firmly press it down to create an even, compact layer. If desired, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the top and gently press them in.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour or place them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until firm. Once set, cut into bars and enjoy your tasty peanut butter Cheerio bars.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- If you prefer less sweetness, omit the brown sugar.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can add dried fruit or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Press the mixture firmly to ensure bars hold together well when cut.
