Cereal Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a snack that’s both wholesome and irresistibly tasty, these Cereal Bars are an absolute game-changer. Combining the crunchy goodness of your favorite cereal with the creamy richness of peanut butter and a touch of natural sweetness, these bars come together quickly and offer a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether you need an energizing breakfast on the go or a satisfying afternoon treat, these Cereal Bars hit the spot every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cereal Bars recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a vital role. From providing crunch and sweetness to adding a hint of saltiness and protein, every component comes together for a perfectly balanced bite.

• 3 cups cereal of choice: Choose a crunchy, lightly sweetened cereal to give your bars a great texture and flavor base.
• 2/3 cup peanut butter or nut butter of choice: This adds creaminess and healthy fats, helping the bars stick together while providing rich flavor.
• 1/2 cup agave, honey, or brown rice syrup: Acts as the natural sweetener and binder for the bars, bringing everything together in a sticky, chewy harmony.
• Optional 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances flavor by balancing the sweetness and boosting the overall taste profile.
• Optional 3 tbsp protein powder: Perfect for a little extra nutritional boost, especially if you want these bars to double as a workout snack.

How to Make Cereal Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

Start by gently warming your peanut butter and sweetener of choice together in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial for making sure the sticky binder coats every bit of cereal later on.

Step 2: Mix in Optional Ingredients

If you’re using salt or protein powder, add them now into your warm peanut butter and sweetener mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the protein powder blends in without clumping and the salt is evenly distributed for that perfect flavor balance.

Step 3: Combine with Cereal

Pour your cereal into a large mixing bowl, then slowly add the warm peanut butter mixture. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to gently fold everything together, making sure each piece of cereal is evenly coated. Take your time here—every bite should be full of flavor and texture.

Step 4: Press into a Pan

Line a square pan with parchment paper for easy removal and even pressing. Transfer the mixture into the pan and use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased or damp) to press it firmly and evenly. The more compact, the better the bars will hold together!

Step 5: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least two hours or until the bars are firm and cut easily. This step ensures your Cereal Bars have the perfect chewy texture that’s not too sticky and not too dry.

How to Serve Cereal Bars

Garnishes

To jazz up your Cereal Bars, consider sprinkling chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit on top before chilling. These garnishes add a bit of flair and extra bite, making your bars look as fabulous as they taste.

Side Dishes

Cereal Bars pair wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a more complete snack or light breakfast. The creamy and tart flavors from the sides complement the sweet, nutty bars perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and serving them on a platter with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a light dusting of powdered sugar. For a grab-and-go option, wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with a ribbon—perfect for lunchboxes or quick office snacks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Cereal Bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is recommended to maintain their texture and prevent melting.

Freezing

Want to keep them longer? These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months, thawing quickly when you’re ready for a snack.

Reheating

Since these bars are best enjoyed cool or at room temperature, reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer a warm treat, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave will soften them just enough without melting the bars entirely.

FAQs

Can I use any type of cereal for Cereal Bars?

Absolutely! The choice of cereal is flexible, though using one that’s crunchy and not too sweet works best. Granola, puffed rice, or even cornflakes all make excellent bases.

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to choose a gluten-free cereal and check that any additional ingredients like protein powder are gluten-free as well.

Can I substitute peanut butter with other nut butters?

Definitely! Almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter are fantastic alternatives that will change the flavor slightly but keep that necessary creaminess and binding quality.

How do I avoid the bars being too sticky?

Make sure to press the mixture firmly and give the bars plenty of time to chill. Also, using a slightly thicker sweetener like brown rice syrup can help reduce stickiness compared to honey.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Yes, these Cereal Bars are a great snack for kids—nutritious, tasty, and easy to hold. Just be mindful of any allergies related to nuts or added ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Cereal Bars is such a rewarding experience, especially when you get to enjoy a fresh, homemade treat that’s customizable and wholesome. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why they’re a go-to snack at my house. Give these bars a whirl and watch how fast they disappear—your kitchen will thank you!

Print