No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

Ooey, chewy No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are the best! These delightful treats are packed with cheerios, peanuts, and creamy peanut butter. Perfect for parties or a quick snack at home, they impress everyone with their irresistible texture and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a sweet dessert or a tasty treat to share, these bars are sure to be a hit every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 10 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• No Baking Required: Enjoy the simplicity of a no-bake recipe that saves you from turning on the oven.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or whenever you crave a sweet bite.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the chewy texture and fun crunch of Cheerios and peanuts, making them an ideal family treat.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add chocolate chips or dried fruit to make them your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth process.

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 for easy removal later.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for combining ingredients over heat without overflow.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix all components thoroughly without mess.

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.

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, stirring until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Mix with Cheerios and Peanuts

Pour the Cheerios and peanuts into a large mixing bowl. Then pour the warm peanut butter mixture over them. Stir everything together until fully combined.

Step 5: Spread in Pan and Cool

Spread the Cheerio mixture evenly in your prepared 9×13 inch pan. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into bars for serving. Enjoy your delicious No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars!

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. These delightful treats make an excellent snack for various occasions, from casual gatherings to packed lunches.

Pair with a Glass of Milk

• A cold glass of milk complements the chewy texture and rich peanut butter flavor perfectly.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh fruits like apples or bananas can add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.

Use as a Topping for Yogurt

• Crumble the bars over yogurt for a delicious breakfast or dessert option, enhancing both texture and flavor.

Pack for a Picnic

• Cut the bars into smaller pieces for easy transport and share them during picnics or outdoor activities.

Include in Lunch Boxes

• These bars make a nutritious addition to lunch boxes, providing energy for kids throughout the school day.

How to Perfect No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

Perfecting No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars is all about technique and using quality ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure your bars turn out great every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your peanuts and peanut butter are fresh for optimal flavor.
• Measure Accurately: Precision in measuring sugar, syrup, and Cheerios will lead to the best texture.
• Mix Thoroughly: Mix the peanut butter mixture well with Cheerios so that every piece is coated evenly.
• Allow Proper Cooling Time: Let the bars cool completely before cutting; this helps them hold their shape better.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for added flavor and nutrition.
• Store Correctly: Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

Serving No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars alongside delicious side dishes can elevate your snack experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful blend of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing note.
2. Veggies and Hummus: Crunchy vegetables paired with creamy hummus provide a healthy balance to sweet treats.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs well with the sweetness, creating a delightful contrast.
4. Popcorn: Lightly salted popcorn offers a crunchy texture that complements the chewiness of the bars.
5. Trail Mix: A homemade trail mix can enhance flavors while providing additional nutrients.
6. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination makes this an irresistible side dish.
7. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a wholesome treat that goes well with your bars.
8. Smoothie: A refreshing fruit smoothie can be an energizing drink option alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the Wrong Pan Size: If you use a pan that is too small, your bars may overflow or be too thick to set properly. Always stick to a 9×13 inch baking pan for best results.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for sugar, peanut butter, and corn syrup to ensure your bars turn out perfect every time.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Rushing to cut the bars before they cool can lead to a sticky mess. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing for clean, neat edges.
• Overmixing the Cheerio Mixture: Mixing too much can break down the Cheerios and make your bars crumbly. Stir gently until everything is just combined.
• Choosing Low-Quality Peanut Butter: Not all peanut butters are created equal! Opt for a creamy, natural peanut butter that contains only peanuts (and salt) for the best flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• These bars can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Layer parchment paper between bars if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container.
• They will last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place bars and cover with a lid, warming for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars:

Can I use other types of cereal in No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars?

Yes! You can substitute Cheerios with any puffed cereal or even rice cereal. Just keep the proportions similar.

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 and up to three months in the freezer.

Are No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars gluten-free?

Most Cheerios are gluten-free, but always check the packaging. Ensure all other ingredients used are also gluten-free if you have allergies.

Can I add chocolate chips to my No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance flavor. Just mix them in along with peanuts before pouring over the Cheerios.

Final Thoughts

No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are not just delicious; they’re also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you want to add chocolate chips or dried fruits, there’s room for creativity. Try this recipe today and enjoy a tasty snack that everyone will love!

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: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful simplicity of No Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars, a perfect treat for any occasion! These ooey-gooey bars combine the satisfying crunch of Cheerios with creamy peanut butter and crunchy peanuts, creating a chewy texture that everyone loves. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a lunchbox addition, or something sweet to share at parties, these bars are incredibly versatile and easy to make. With no baking required, you can whip them up in just 10 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy days. Customize them by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits to suit your taste. Get ready to impress friends and family with this deliciously simple recipe!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 ¼ cups light corn syrup
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 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, combine white sugar and light corn syrup. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
4. In a large mixing bowl, add Cheerios and peanuts. Pour the warm mixture over them and stir until combined.
5. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan and allow it to cool completely before cutting into bars.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg