Cereal Bars Recipe
Nothing beats the sweet satisfaction of homemade Cereal Bars, especially when your kitchen fills with that irresistible, nutty aroma! These bars are a no-bake dream, sweetened just right, and endlessly customizable with your favorite crunchy cereal and protein-packed nut butters. Whether you’re whipping them up for a grab-and-go breakfast, an after-school treat, or a portable snack, these Cereal Bars deliver chewy texture, balanced flavors, and wholesome ingredients in every bite—truly the snack you’ll find yourself making again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With Cereal Bars, each ingredient is chosen both for simplicity and for the perfect chewy-crunchy combination that makes snacking so satisfying. Here’s how each item plays its role in building up that classic bar you know and crave!
- Cereal (3 cups): Any variety works, from crispy rice to corn flakes; it’s the backbone for both taste and texture.
- Peanut butter or nut butter (2/3 cup): Acts as the glue and adds creamy, rich flavor; almond, cashew, or even sunflower seed butter are excellent swaps.
- Agave, honey, or brown rice syrup (1/2 cup): The natural sweetener that binds everything while bringing just the right touch of sweetness.
- Salt (optional, 1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and highlights the flavors—especially great if your nut butter isn’t salted.
- Protein powder (optional, 3 tbsp): For a little extra boost, especially if these bars are fueling a busy day.
How to Make Cereal Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining an 8-inch square pan with wax or parchment paper, leaving a generous overhang so it’s easy to lift the bars out later. If you’re planning to double the recipe, a 9×13-inch pan works perfectly. This step keeps cleanup quick and ensures your Cereal Bars don’t stick!
Step 2: Warm and Mix the Wet Ingredients
If your nut butter is too thick to mix easily, gently warm it in the microwave or over low heat just until smooth and pourable. In a large bowl, stir together the nut butter and your sweetener of choice until it’s completely blended and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the cereal (and, if using, protein powder and salt) to your wet mixture. Stir everything thoroughly so every piece of cereal is evenly coated and you have no dry patches lurking at the bottom.
Step 4: Press and Set
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Place another sheet of parchment over the top, then press down firmly—really pack it in so the bars hold together when you slice them. The firmer you press, the better the Cereal Bars will cut and stay together.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Place the pan in the freezer for about 30 minutes, or until the bars are firm enough to cut cleanly. Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment, slice into even pieces, and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Cereal Bars
Garnishes
For a fun finish, try drizzling your Cereal Bars with a little melted dark chocolate, swirling on some extra nut butter, or sprinkling chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit on top before they set. This not only boosts the flavor—it makes them look bakery-worthy, too!
Side Dishes
Pair your Cereal Bars with a cold glass of milk, a creamy yogurt parfait, or some fresh fruit for a quick breakfast or snack plate. They also go great alongside a morning smoothie or latte for a balanced start.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or lunchboxes, cut the Cereal Bars into fun shapes using cookie cutters, or wrap them individually in parchment and tie with twine for the sweetest homemade gift. Stack them on a platter, or layer in a jar for a colorful snack display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cereal Bars in an airtight container, either at room temperature in a cool, dry spot or in the fridge. While they hold up on the counter for a few days, refrigeration keeps them extra firm and fresh.
Freezing
Want to keep bars on hand all month? Freeze your Cereal Bars! Just wrap each bar tightly in parchment and place in a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to two months; they thaw in minutes at room temperature, making them ultra convenient for busy schedules.
Reheating
No need to reheat these, but if you prefer a gooier bite, let chilled bars rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving—they’ll lose their firm texture and become messy.
FAQs
Can I use any type of cereal?
Absolutely! Mix and match your favorites—rice crispy, granola, corn flakes, or even chocolate-flavored varieties all work. Just avoid extra-large clusters, which can make pressing difficult.
Can I make Cereal Bars nut-free?
Yes, swap the nut butter for sunflower seed butter, pumpkin seed butter, or soy nut butter. Be sure to choose a brand that’s smooth and spreadable for best results.
How do I stop the bars from falling apart?
Press the mixture very firmly into the pan and be sure all pieces are well-coated with the wet ingredients. Slicing only after they’re chilled also helps them hold their shape.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit?
Of course! Stir in mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries, raisins, or even coconut flakes before pressing into the pan. Just don’t overdo it or the bars might crumble.
Are these bars gluten-free or vegan?
They can be! Choose a certified gluten-free cereal and swap honey for agave or brown rice syrup to make vegan-friendly Cereal Bars.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve got 10 minutes and a handful of pantry staples, you’re ready to create a batch of delicious Cereal Bars that everyone will want to sneak from your kitchen! Give them a try and discover just how fun (and simple) homemade snacking can be.
Print
Cereal Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These homemade cereal bars are a delicious and nutritious snack that you can customize with your favorite ingredients. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these bars are easy to make and perfect for a quick breakfast or on-the-go snack.
Ingredients
Cereal Bars:
- 3 cups cereal of choice
- 2/3 cup peanut butter or nut butter of choice
- 1/2 cup agave, honey, or brown rice syrup
- optional 1/2 tsp salt
- optional 3 tbsp protein powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Bars: Line an 8-inch pan with wax or parchment paper. If needed, gently warm nut butter until easily stirrable. Stir all ingredients in a large bowl. Pour the cereal mixture into the pan. Place a second sheet of parchment over top, and press the cereal down firmly into the pan. Freeze for half an hour or until firm enough to slice into bars.
- Storage: Cover leftovers. Store in the refrigerator, freezer, or on the counter in a cool, dry place.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cereal bars, homemade bars, snack bars, breakfast bars, nut butter bars
