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Homemade Cheerios Cereal Bars photo

Cheerios Cereal Bars

These Cheerios Cereal Bars are a quick, delicious snack packed with crunch! Perfect for any time of day, they’re a family favorite!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 35 large marshmallows for chewy texture and binding
  • 1/2 cup butter unsalted or salted
  • 30 caramels unwrapped
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla to enhance flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt to balance sweetness
  • 4 cups multigrain Cheerios the star of the recipe
  • 1/2 cup salted roasted peanuts chopped
  • 1/2 cup banana chips chopped
  • 1/2 cup pretzel sticks chopped
  • 1/2 cup plain M&Ms for a fun burst of chocolate

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Start by lining a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easier to lift the bars out later.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, marshmallows, and unwrapped caramels. Stir continuously until everything is completely melted and smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and salt.
  4. Quickly add the Cheerios, chopped peanuts, banana chips, pretzel sticks, and M&Ms to the melted mixture and stir until evenly coated.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press firmly and evenly into the dish.
  6. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours or until set.
  7. Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, place on a cutting board, and cut into squares or rectangles.

Notes

  • Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  • For a nut-free version, replace peanuts with more banana chips or Cheerios.
  • Chill in the refrigerator to set faster and make cutting easier.