Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are a quick, no-bake snack that I can whip up in minutes. They’re sweet, chewy, and packed with that nostalgic peanut butter flavor that makes them impossible to resist. I like making them when I want something easy yet satisfying — perfect for breakfast on the go or a mid-day treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple these bars are. With just a few pantry staples, I can create a chewy, crunchy, and slightly salty-sweet snack that holds together beautifully. They remind me of a peanut butter cereal treat but without the fuss of baking or complex ingredients. They also store well and are a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups Cheerios (regular or multigrain)

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• ½ cup honey (or light corn syrup for a firmer texture)

• ¼ cup brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the pan. I line an 8×8-inch (or 9×9-inch for thinner bars) pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2. Make the peanut butter mixture. In a saucepan over medium heat, I combine peanut butter, honey, and brown sugar (if using). I stir constantly until smooth and just starting to bubble, then remove from heat.

3. Add vanilla and salt. I stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for balance.

4. Mix in the Cheerios. I pour the peanut butter mixture over the Cheerios in a large bowl and stir until all the cereal is well coated.

5. Press into the pan. I transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing firmly with a spatula or lightly greased hands to compact it evenly.

6. Cool and set. I let the bars cool completely at room temperature (about 30 minutes) or refrigerate for quicker setting.

7. Cut and serve. Once set, I lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares or rectangles.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 9 to 12 bars, depending on size. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to set — perfect for when I need a quick snack.

Variations

• I sometimes add mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a peanut butter–chocolate combo.

• For extra crunch, I mix in chopped peanuts or pretzel pieces.

• I’ve tried using almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version, and they turn out just as tasty.

• If I want more of a breakfast feel, I mix in a handful of dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.

Storage/Reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If stacking them, I separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking. For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before eating.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but I prefer the no-stir kind since natural peanut butter can separate and make the bars greasy. If I use it, I stir it very well and may add a little extra honey to help the bars hold together.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Absolutely. I use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey, and make sure the Cheerios I use are vegan-friendly.

How do I keep the bars from crumbling?

I press them firmly into the pan while warm and make sure to measure the liquid ingredients accurately. The honey and peanut butter act as the glue that binds everything together.

Can I use other cereals?

Yes, I’ve made these with Rice Krispies, Corn Flakes, or a mix of cereals. Cheerios give a great texture, but other cereals work fine as long as they’re not too dense.

Are these good for meal prep or lunchboxes?

Definitely. I make a batch on Sunday, cut them into bars, and wrap each one individually for grab-and-go snacks all week. They hold up well and don’t need refrigeration.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are one of my favorite quick snacks — simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor. I love how they strike the perfect balance between chewy and crunchy, and they’re endlessly customizable. Whenever I need a fast homemade treat without turning on the oven, this recipe is my go-to.