No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

Try these delicious no bake peanut butter cereal bars. A perfect for on-the-go snack or dessert. These bars are simple to make and packed with flavor, making them the ideal treat for kids and adults alike. Whether you need a quick breakfast option or a sweet snack after school, these bars fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they require no baking, so you can whip them up in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These bars come together in just 25 minutes, making them a great last-minute treat.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can swap out M&Ms for your favorite candies or nuts to tailor them to your liking.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved! They’ll love mixing and pressing the ingredients together.
• Portable Snack: Perfectly sized for lunch boxes or road trips—grab one and go!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and crunchy cereals creates an irresistible taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will help you focus on making these delicious bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Spoon or spatula
• 15” x 10” x 1” pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for heating the corn syrup and sugar mixture evenly without burning.

Ingredients

Try these delicious no bake peanut butter cereal bars. A perfect for on-the-go snack or dessert.

For the Base

• 4 cups cheerios
• 4 cups crisp rice cereal
• 2 cups dry roasted peanuts
• 2 cups M&Ms

For the Binding Mixture

• 2 cups light corn syrup
• 1 ¾ cups sugar
• 2 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
• 1 ¾ teaspoons vanilla

How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Spray a 15” x 10” x 1” pan with non-stick spray. This step is crucial to ensure that your bars come out cleanly after they set.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheerios, crisp rice cereal, dry roasted peanuts, and M&Ms. Stir gently until well mixed. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Heat Syrup Mixture

In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the light corn syrup and sugar to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once boiling, remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine with Peanut Butter

Stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the warm syrup mixture over the cereal mixture in the large mixing bowl. Toss with a spoon or spatula until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Set in Pan

Spread the mixture into your prepared pan, pressing it down firmly to create an even layer. Allow it to sit at room temperature until set, which may take about an hour.

Enjoy your homemade no bake peanut butter cereal bars as a delightful treat anytime!

How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

No bake peanut butter cereal bars are not only a tasty treat but also a versatile snack. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their appeal and flavor.

As a Quick Snack

• These bars make an excellent grab-and-go snack for busy days. Just cut into portions and pack them for lunch or as after-school treats.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pairing these bars with fresh fruit, like banana slices or berries, adds a refreshing touch and balances the sweetness of the bars.

Crumbled over Yogurt

• Crumble some no bake peanut butter cereal bars over yogurt for added crunch and flavor. This makes for a delightful breakfast or dessert option.

With Ice Cream

• Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The combination of flavors will satisfy your sweet tooth.

As a Gift

• Wrap individual bars in colorful cellophane or gift boxes for a homemade gift. They are perfect for holidays or special occasions.

At Parties

• Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter. They are great for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste.

How to Perfect No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

Here are some tips to ensure your no bake peanut butter cereal bars turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter is creamy and not too old. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly without sacrificing the texture of the bars.

• Mix thoroughly: Make sure all ingredients are well combined. This ensures each bite has an even distribution of flavors.

• Let them set properly: Allow enough time for the mixture to cool before cutting. This helps maintain their shape and prevents crumbling.

• Store correctly: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to extend freshness.

Best Side Dishes for No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

These delicious no bake peanut butter cereal bars pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.

2. Veggie Sticks with Hummus
   Crunchy vegetables dipped in hummus add a savory element that balances the sweetness of the dessert.

3. Chocolate Milkshake
   A thick chocolate milkshake pairs perfectly, enhancing the indulgence while providing a cold treat.

4. Trail Mix
   A homemade trail mix with nuts and dried fruits offers an extra crunch that complements the chewy texture of the cereal bars.

5. Coconut Chia Pudding
   This creamy pudding adds nutritional value and pairs well with the nutty flavors of the peanut butter.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can create an interesting flavor profile when paired with sweet treats like these no bake peanut butter cereal bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Incorrect Measurements: Always measure ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little of any ingredient can affect the texture and flavor of your bars.

• Skipping the Non-Stick Spray: Don’t forget to spray the baking pan with non-stick spray. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make removal easier.

• Not Mixing Thoroughly: Make sure to mix the cereal and syrup mixture well. This ensures every piece is coated, enhancing flavor and cohesiveness.

• Underestimating Cooling Time: Be patient! Allow the bars to cool until set completely. Cutting them too early can lead to a crumbly mess.

• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality peanut butter and fresh ingredients. This can significantly improve the taste of your no bake peanut butter cereal bars.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container. This will keep your bars fresh.
• They can last in the fridge for up to one week.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil for easy access.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 10-15 seconds on medium power. Check frequently to avoid overheating.

• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat. Add bars and cover with a lid, warming them gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cereals instead of Cheerios?

Yes, feel free to substitute Cheerios with other cereals like Rice Krispies or Cornflakes for different textures and flavors.

How do I make No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars vegan?

To make these bars vegan, use maple syrup instead of corn syrup and ensure your peanut butter is vegan-friendly without added sugar.

What is the best way to cut No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars?

Use a sharp knife that has been warmed under hot water. This will help create clean cuts without crumbling the bars.

Can I add chocolate chips to my No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips can be mixed into the cereal mixture or sprinkled on top before cooling for extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these bars will satisfy any sweet tooth while keeping you energized throughout the day. Give them a try; you’ll love how simple and tasty they are!

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No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the joy of homemade No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars—an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion! These bars combine creamy peanut butter with crunchy cereals and colorful M&Ms, creating a delicious snack that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Ready in just 25 minutes, they require no baking, making them an ideal choice for busy families. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, an after-school treat, or a sweet addition to lunch boxes, these bars are versatile and fun to prepare. Involve the kids in the mixing process for a delightful cooking experience that results in a tasty reward everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups Cheerios
• 4 cups crisp rice cereal
• 2 cups dry roasted peanuts
• 2 cups M&Ms
• 2 cups light corn syrup
• 1 ¾ cups sugar
• 2 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
• 1 ¾ teaspoons vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Spray a 15'' x 10'' x 1'' pan with non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine Cheerios, crisp rice cereal, dry roasted peanuts, and M&Ms; mix well.
3. In a medium saucepan, bring corn syrup and sugar to a boil over medium heat while stirring frequently.
4. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
5. Pour the warm mixture over the cereal mixture; toss to coat evenly.
6. Press into the prepared pan firmly and allow to set at room temperature for about one hour.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No Bake
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg