Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love how quick and simple these Cereal Bars are to prepare—no baking required! They’re a healthier alternative to store-bought versions, packed with whole grains and natural sweetness. These bars are also kid-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and perfect for anyone who wants a nutritious yet indulgent snack that’s portable and customizable.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Your favorite cereal (such as Cheerios, Rice Krispies, or granola)
• Honey or maple syrup
• Peanut butter or almond butter
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional add-ins: mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, or shredded coconut

Directions

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey and peanut butter over low heat. Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. In a large bowl, pour the mixture over the cereal. Stir gently until all the cereal is evenly coated.
5. Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit.
6. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan using a spatula or your hands.
7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
8. Cut into bars and store as desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 to 10 bars.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate lovers: Add cocoa powder to the peanut butter mixture or drizzle melted chocolate over the top.
• Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of nut butter.
• High-protein: Mix in a scoop of protein powder or add chopped nuts.
• Fruity: Add dried cranberries, raisins, or diced apricots for a sweet, chewy twist.
• Crunchy: Add pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store Cereal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 2 months—just thaw for a few minutes before eating. No reheating is needed; simply grab and enjoy!

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of cereal?

Yes, most cereals work—just choose one that holds its shape well and isn’t overly sugary.

2. How do I keep the bars from falling apart?

Press the mixture firmly into the pan and chill thoroughly before cutting.

3. Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based cereal.

4. What’s the best nut butter to use?

Natural peanut butter works best, but almond or cashew butter are great alternatives.

5. Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can use less honey or mix in a bit of unsweetened nut butter to balance the flavor.

6. Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free cereal and confirm all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

7. Can I add protein powder?

Absolutely—stir in one scoop of your favorite protein powder before mixing with the cereal.

8. Can I bake the bars instead of chilling?

These bars don’t require baking, but if you prefer a crispier texture, you can bake them at 350°F for 10 minutes.

9. How long do they last in the fridge?

They stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

10. Can I use other sweeteners?

Yes, agave syrup or brown rice syrup can replace honey or maple syrup.

Conclusion

Cereal Bars are a quick, customizable, and nutritious snack that fits into any lifestyle. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a pre-workout bite, or a healthy dessert, these bars deliver a perfect mix of crunch, chew, and sweetness. With endless flavor options and easy prep, they’re a staple recipe you’ll keep coming back to again and again.

Cereal Bars

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These Cereal Bars are sweet, crunchy, and chewy no-bake treats made with cereal, nut butter, and honey. Perfect for quick breakfasts, snacks, or meal prep, they’re easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 bars
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 3 cups your favorite cereal (Cheerios, Rice Krispies, or granola)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, or shredded coconut

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Instructions

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey and peanut butter over low heat. Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. In a large bowl, pour the peanut butter mixture over the cereal and stir gently until evenly coated.
5. Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
6. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan using a spatula or your hands.
7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
8. Cut into bars and store at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Notes

• Press the mixture firmly to help the bars hold together when cut.
• Chill for at least 1 hour for best texture.
• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
• For a high-protein version, mix in one scoop of protein powder.
• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg