Are you looking for a quick and easy recipe that's both healthy and satisfying? Do you crave that familiar crunch of Cheerios but want something a little different? Then look no further! This Cheerios Cereal Bar recipe is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight, a weekend baking project, or a fun after-school snack. These bars are surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. They're packed with wholesome goodness and the irresistible taste of everyone's favorite cereal. Get ready to experience a delightful twist on a classic!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups Cheerios cereal (or your favorite oat cereal)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans – your choice!)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional, for added sweetness and texture)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan and set it aside. Measure out all your ingredients to make the process smoother. Chopping the nuts beforehand will save you time later on.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved for even sweetness.
Step 3: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Add the Cheerios, rolled oats, nuts, and dried cranberries (if using) to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain some texture in the cereal.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon. This will ensure the bars hold their shape and bake consistently.
Step 5: Cool and Cut
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bars are set. Let them cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This prevents them from crumbling.
Tips for Success:
- Customize your mix-ins: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweet bars, reduce the amount of brown sugar by a tablespoon or two.
- Storage: Store your Cheerios bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Variations:
- Chocolate Cheerios Bars: Use chocolate Cheerios and add chocolate chips to the mix.
- Fruity Cheerios Bars: Add more dried fruit like chopped apricots or cherries.
- Spiced Cheerios Bars: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
Nutritional Information (per bar, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used but expect around:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 2-3g
These Cheerios cereal bars are a delightful and easy-to-make treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. They're a great way to enjoy the familiar taste of Cheerios in a new and exciting form. Enjoy this simple yet delicious homemade recipe!