Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious breakfast that will kickstart your day the right way? Look no further! This Cheerios Cinnamon Oat Crunch recipe is the perfect solution for busy mornings and health-conscious individuals. It’s packed with fiber, wholesome grains, and a delightful cinnamon warmth that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. This simple recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and offers a tasty alternative to store-bought cereals. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Cheerios cereal (original or honey nut)
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans – your choice!)
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, but adds delicious texture)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (or butter)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. This simple step ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Cheerios, rolled oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Add the melted coconut oil (or butter) and maple syrup (or honey) to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly moistened. Don't overmix; a few dry spots are okay.
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Spread & Bake: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the oats are lightly golden brown and the mixture is fragrant. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
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Cool & Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Cheerios Cinnamon Oat Crunch cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. This allows the mixture to crisp up nicely. Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Cheerios Cinnamon Oat Crunch:
- Nut Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or seeds, such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, to add variety and nutritional value.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey according to your preference. You can start with less and add more if needed.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure your oats and Cheerios are certified gluten-free if needed.
Variations:
- Chocolate Cheerios Crunch: Use chocolate Cheerios and add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Fruit-infused Crunch: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries, blueberries, or chopped apples for extra flavor and texture.
- Spiced Pumpkin Crunch: Use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg for a fall-inspired treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. Nutritional information is best obtained using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients. However, generally, this recipe provides a good source of fiber, whole grains, and healthy fats. It's a relatively low-sugar breakfast option compared to many commercial cereals.
This Cheerios Cinnamon Oat Crunch recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying breakfast that's easy to make and customize to your liking. Enjoy!