No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

Ooey, chewy No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are the best! Loaded with Cheerios, peanuts, and covered in creamy peanut butter, these bars are a hit every time. Perfect for parties, after-school snacks, or even a quick breakfast treat, this recipe stands out with its simplicity and delicious flavor. Plus, they require no baking, making them an easy choice for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip these bars up in no time.
• No Baking Required: Enjoy the ease of making a dessert without turning on the oven.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Their sweet and nutty flavor appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for added variety.
• Healthy Snack Option: Packed with peanuts and Cheerios, they’re a better snack alternative compared to many store-bought options.

Tools and Preparation

To make No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars, gather your essential tools and equipment. These will help streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Nonstick spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Essential for melting the sugar and corn syrup mixture evenly.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring the thick mixture thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 ¼ cups light corn syrup
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla

For the Crunch

• 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 prevent the bars from sticking.

Step 2: Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup

In a medium saucepan, mix together the white sugar and light corn syrup. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla

Once boiling, remove the pan from heat. Add in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Mix Cheerios and Peanuts

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the Cheerios and peanuts. Then pour the warm peanut butter mixture over them. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Spread in Pan

Transfer the Cheerio mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use your spatula to spread it evenly. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars.

These No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are not only simple to make but also deliciously satisfying! Enjoy sharing them with friends and family or keeping them all to yourself!

How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. These chewy bars are perfect for parties, snacks, or even as a dessert option. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

For a Sweet Snack

• Serve the bars as an afternoon snack with a glass of milk for a classic pairing.
• Cut them into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats that are perfect for kids’ lunchboxes.

With Ice Cream

• Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the ice cream and bars for extra sweetness.

As Breakfast Bars

• Enjoy these bars as a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
• Pair them with fresh fruit like bananas or berries to add some freshness.

For Parties

• Slice the bars into bite-sized squares and serve on a platter at gatherings.
• Add colorful sprinkles on top for festive occasions or holidays.

How to Perfect No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

Creating the perfect No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars is simple with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your peanut butter and corn syrup are fresh for the best flavor.
• Mix Quickly: Stir the peanut butter mixture into the Cheerios while it’s still warm to help it coat evenly.
• Press Firmly: When spreading the mixture in the pan, press it down firmly to create dense bars that won’t crumble easily.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them; this helps them hold their shape better.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewiness.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips or dried fruits for a twist on the classic flavor.

Best Side Dishes for No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

While these No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars can stand alone, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your snack time. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the chewy bars.
3. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy carrots and celery paired with creamy hummus offer a healthy contrast in texture and taste.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory flavors that complement the sweetness of the peanut butter bars.
5. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination makes for an addictive snack alongside your dessert bars.
6. Nut Mix: A homemade nut mix adds crunch and healthy fats, balancing out the sweet elements of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Nonstick Spray: Not greasing your baking pan can make it difficult to remove the bars later. Always spray your pan with nonstick spray before adding the mixture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: If you don’t measure your ingredients precisely, the texture of the bars may be off. Use a standard measuring cup and spoon for accuracy.
• Overheating the Mixture: Boiling the sugar and corn syrup for too long can cause crystallization. Bring it just to a boil and remove from heat immediately.
• Using Old Cheerios: Stale Cheerios won’t provide the same flavor or texture. Make sure to use fresh Cheerios for optimal taste.
• Cutting Too Soon: Cutting the bars before they cool completely can lead to messy edges. Allow them to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap bars in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until just warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars?

No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are a sweet, chewy treat made from Cheerios, peanut butter, and sugar. They require no baking, making them quick and easy to prepare.

How long do No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars last?

These bars can last up to one week in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even swap out peanuts for other nuts based on your preference.

Are No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars healthy?

While they are a tasty treat, they do contain sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and ensure your peanut butter is free from added sugars or oils.

Final Thoughts

No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins for a personal touch. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a dessert option, these bars are perfect. Try making them today and enjoy a delightful treat that’s sure to please everyone!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Makes about 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful goodness of No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars, a quick and easy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These bars combine the rich flavor of creamy peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of Cheerios and peanuts, creating a chewy snack that appeals to both kids and adults alike. With no baking required, you can whip up these delicious bars in just 10 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy days or spontaneous gatherings. Enjoy them as a sweet afternoon snack, a quick breakfast on-the-go, or a fun party treat—these bars are versatile and customizable to fit your taste preferences. Add chocolate chips or dried fruit for an extra twist, and savor each bite of this simple yet satisfying recipe.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 ¼ cups light corn syrup
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup peanuts
• 6 cups Cheerios

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Instructions

1. Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
2. In a medium saucepan, mix white sugar and light corn syrup; bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Remove from heat; stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine Cheerios and peanuts; pour warm mixture over them and stir well.
5. Transfer mixture into the prepared pan; press down evenly and let cool completely before cutting into bars.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg