There’s something magical about recipes that take you back to childhood—the sweet peanut butter aroma, the chewy crunch of cereal, and the joy of making something delicious without ever turning on the oven. These Easy No-Bake Cheerio Peanut Butter Bars are just that kind of treat. Perfect for busy weekdays, after-school snacks, or summer afternoons when the kitchen feels too warm for baking, this recipe is quick, kid-friendly, and made with simple pantry staples you probably already have.
Whether you’re making them for your toddler’s lunchbox, a back-to-school snack, or a quick treat for yourself, these bars will become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups Cheerios cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup honey (or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare your pan – Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Melt the peanut butter and honey – In a medium saucepan over low heat, stir together the peanut butter and honey until smooth and well combined. Don’t let it boil—just warm enough to blend.
- Add vanilla – Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in the cereal – Gently fold the Cheerios into the peanut butter mixture until every piece is coated.
- Press into the pan – Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Use a spatula (or lightly greased hands) to press it down firmly and evenly.
- Chill and set – Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 1 hour, or until the bars are firm.
- Slice and enjoy – Lift the parchment out, slice into bars or squares, and serve.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Press firmly: The more you press, the better your bars will hold together.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Cutting tip: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe between slices.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle – Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the bars before chilling.
- Nut-Free Option – Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter for a school-safe snack.
- Extra Crunch – Add ½ cup of chopped nuts or seeds to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
- Serve alongside a cold glass of milk or almond milk.
- Cut into small squares for lunchboxes or party platters.
Conclusion
These no-bake Cheerio peanut butter bars are proof that the simplest recipes are often the most loved. Perfect for making with little helpers or whipping up in a pinch, they bring cozy, homemade goodness to your snack table without the fuss. Make a batch today and share the sweet moments with someone you love.