Are you ready to indulge in a deliciously crunchy treat that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying? These Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars combine the wholesome goodness of Cheerios with the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter and a hint of sweetness from honey, making them the perfect snack for any time of day. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 25 minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch of these delightful bars that will have your family and friends begging for more. Trust us, once you try them, you won't be able to resist reaching for just one more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 3 cups Cheerios
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by lining a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large microwave-safe mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and honey. Microwave the mixture for 30-45 seconds, stirring halfway through until smooth and fully integrated.
- Remove the melted peanut butter and honey mixture from the microwave and let it cool for 1-2 minutes to prevent scorching the Cheerios.
- Gently fold the Cheerios into the warm peanut butter and honey mixture, ensuring each cereal piece is evenly coated. Use a spatula to mix carefully to avoid crushing the Cheerios.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing down firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or clean hands to create a compact layer.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly across the top of the mixture, gently pressing them into the surface to help them adhere.
- Refrigerate the pan for 15-20 minutes to allow the bars to set and become firm.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 even rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best texture, let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, measure out your ingredients before you start cooking. This way, you can focus on mixing and assembling without any interruptions.
- Choose the Right Peanut Butter: For the best flavor and texture, use a natural peanut butter that’s creamy and free from added sugars or hydrogenated oils. This will help your bars hold together better.
- Mix Carefully: When folding the Cheerios into the peanut butter and honey mixture, be gentle to avoid crushing the cereal. A spatula works great for this, allowing you to mix without losing that satisfying crunch.
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture to the baking pan, make sure to press it down firmly and evenly. This will help the bars hold their shape once they’re cut.
- Chill for Best Results: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Chilling the bars helps them set properly, making them easier to cut and giving them a firmer texture.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your bars by adding in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost.
- Storage Tips: Store your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to 5 days. For a softer bite, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
