Are you looking for a quick and easy dessert recipe that's both nostalgic and surprisingly delicious? Look no further! This Cheerios Marshmallow Treats recipe takes the classic gooey goodness of marshmallow squares and adds a delightful crunch with everyone's favorite breakfast cereal. It's perfect for a weeknight treat, a kid-friendly party snack, or a fun twist on a childhood favorite. Get ready to experience a delightful combination of sweet, chewy, and crunchy textures in every bite! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Cheerios cereal (or your favorite whole-grain cereal)
- 10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 (10-ounce) bag of marshmallows (mini or regular)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, sprinkles, chopped nuts, dried fruit
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or butter for this.
Melt the Marshmallows:
- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely. Be patient and stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth. This takes a little time and gentle stirring. Avoid high heat, as this can scorch the marshmallows.
Combine and Press:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Gently fold in the Cheerios cereal until evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can crush the cereal.
Set and Enjoy:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press firmly into an even layer.
- Let the treats cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares. This will allow them to set properly.
Tips for the Best Cheerios Marshmallow Treats:
- Don't rush the marshmallow melting process: Low and slow is key here. High heat will burn the marshmallows and ruin the texture.
- Use a spatula for even coating: A spatula helps ensure all the Cheerios are evenly coated in the marshmallow mixture.
- Get creative with mix-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture. A dash of cinnamon also works wonders!
- Cut into squares while still slightly warm: This makes cutting easier and results in cleaner edges.
Variations:
- Fruity Cheerios Treats: Use Fruity Cheerios for a sweeter, more vibrant treat.
- Nutty Cheerios Treats: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delicious crunch.
- Chocolate Cheerios Treats: Stir in some melted chocolate chips along with the Cheerios for an extra chocolatey kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size. A general estimate per square (assuming 16 squares):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
This Cheerios Marshmallow Treats recipe is a simple, delicious, and fun dessert that's perfect for any occasion. It's a great way to use up leftover cereal and create a memorable treat for family and friends. Enjoy your homemade cooking and the delicious results of this easy recipe! These are sure to become a family favorite, perfect for quick dinner ideas or a delightful sweet ending to any meal. These delicious dishes are simple to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights. This recipe is among the best recipes for its ease and satisfying taste.