Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

by

 Introduction

Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars – A No-Bake Summer Delight

There’s something magical about summertime snacks—they’re not just food; they’re little pieces of nostalgia, wrapped in sweetness and simplicity. One recipe that has followed me from summer camp to adult cookouts is the iconic peanut butter Cheerio bars.

These chewy, peanut-buttery squares are what you get when convenience meets indulgence. No oven, no fuss—just five ingredients, one pot, and a pan. Whether you’re prepping snacks for a road trip, a backyard gathering, or a quick kid-friendly fix, this recipe checks every box.

 Ingredients, Equipment & Timing

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 2 cups of plain Cheerios (or any toasted oat cereal)

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

  • 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)

  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional but adds depth)

  • Pinch of sea salt (if peanut butter is unsalted)

Kitchen Equipment

  • Medium saucepan

  • Silicone spatula or wooden spoon

  • 8×8-inch baking pan

  • Parchment paper

  • Knife for slicing

Timing Overview

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Cook Time: 5 minutes

  • Chill Time: 45 minutes

  • Total Time: Approx. 55 minutes

 How to Make Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

1. Line Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, letting the paper hang over the sides. This makes it easy to lift the bars out later.

2. Melt the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine:

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

  • A pinch of salt

Stir constantly until smooth and just bubbling—this usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to boil.

3. Stir in the Cheerios

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the 2 cups of Cheerios. Mix well until all the cereal is evenly coated in the warm peanut butter mixture.

4. Press into the Pan

Pour the sticky mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula (or your hands with a bit of oil or parchment) to press it down firmly and evenly.

5. Chill to Set

Place the pan in the fridge for at least 45 minutes, or in the freezer for 20–30 minutes if you’re in a hurry. The bars should feel firm and hold their shape.

6. Slice and Serve

Lift the set bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or rectangles, and enjoy!

Variations & Pro Tips

Customizations & Add-Ins

Make your peanut butter Cheerio bars even more exciting with these simple tweaks:

  • Mini Chocolate Chips – Stir in once the mixture has cooled slightly

  • Shredded Coconut – Add 1/4 cup for a tropical crunch

  • Crushed Pretzels – Adds salt and texture

  • Dried Cranberries or Raisins – Sweet and chewy contrast

  • Chia or Flax Seeds – Boost the fiber and healthy fats

Pro Tips for Success

Use fresh cereal – Stale Cheerios will turn soggy and chewy
Firm pressure = better bars – Press the mixture down tightly in the pan
Natural peanut butter? – Be sure it’s well stirred and not too oily
Make cleanup easy – Spray your spatula with a little cooking spray
Store chilled – These bars are best kept cold in summer heat

Storage & FAQs

How to Store

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keeps bars firm and chewy.

  • Freezer: Wrap bars individually in parchment and freeze for up to 1 month. Great for make-ahead snacks or lunchboxes.

Tip: Let frozen bars sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before eating for the perfect texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I use almond or sunflower seed butter instead?
Yes! Just make sure it’s smooth and creamy. Sunflower butter is great for nut-free options.

❓ My bars didn’t stick together—what happened?
Either the cereal wasn’t fully coated or the peanut butter mixture wasn’t heated enough. Make sure the mix is warm and fully incorporated.

❓ Are these gluten-free?
Yes—just make sure your Cheerios (or oat cereal) are certified gluten-free.

❓ Can I microwave the mixture instead of using the stove?
Absolutely! Heat the peanut butter and honey in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring between each.

Nutrition, SEO & Resources

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~200

  • Protein: 5g

  • Fat: 9g

  • Sugar: ~10g

  • Carbs: 18g
    (Estimated; may vary by ingredient brands.)

 

Leave a comment