Looking for a quick, healthy snack that’s easy to make and perfect for any time of the day? These no-bake cereal bars are a great choice! Made with just a few ingredients, these bars are packed with wholesome oats, crispy cereal, and a nutty sweetness that makes them ideal for breakfast, school lunches, or a mid-day treat. Plus, with optional chocolate chips or dried fruit, you can customize each batch for the perfect snack!
Ingredients:
3 cups crispy rice cereal or mixed whole-grain cereal
1 cup rolled oats
½ cup honey or maple syrup
½ cup peanut butter or almond butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: ¼ cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit
Instructions:
Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the edges for easy removal.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cereal and oats. Set aside.
Make the Syrup: In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together honey (or maple syrup) and peanut butter until smooth. Remove from heat, and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
Mix Ingredients: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the cereal and oats, stirring to combine. If using chocolate chips or dried fruit, fold them in now.
Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Press firmly with the back of a spoon or spatula to create an even layer.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Lift out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into 12 bars.
Serving Tips:
Ideal for Breakfast or Snacks: Serve these bars as a quick grab-and-go breakfast or a healthy snack for school lunches and busy days.
Pair with Fresh Fruit: These bars go wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a smoothie for a balanced snack.
Cut to Desired Size: You can cut these bars into smaller squares for bite-sized portions, perfect for kids or a lighter snack option.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cereal bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their firmness. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before eating.
On-the-Go Storage: Wrap individual bars in parchment or wax paper, then place in a sealable bag for easy transport. This is perfect for snacks on the go, whether for work, school, or road trips.
Related Recipes:
- Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting
- Homemade Chocolate Cereal
- Cereal Milk Poke Cake
FAQs:
Can I make these cereal bars nut-free?
Yes! Substitute peanut or almond butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for a nut-free version that’s school-friendly and allergy-safe.
How can I make the bars hold together better?
Ensure the honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter are fully melted and well-combined before mixing with the dry ingredients. Press the mixture firmly into the pan, and chill for at least an hour to help the bars hold their shape.
Can I use other types of cereal?
Definitely! Whole-grain cereals, puffed rice, or even granola can be used for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure the cereal is crunchy for the best results.
Are there alternatives to honey or maple syrup?
If you prefer a different sweetener, try agave syrup or brown rice syrup, as they have a similar consistency. Avoid granulated sugars, as they won’t hold the bars together as well.
Conclusion:
These no-bake cereal bars make healthy snacking easy. With only wholesome ingredients, minimal prep time, and endless ways to customize, this recipe is a go-to for busy mornings and quick bites.
📖 Recipe:
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Cereal Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These easy no-bake cereal bars are perfect for a quick, healthy snack or breakfast on the go. Made with crispy rice cereal, oats, and a mix of peanut butter and honey, they’re wholesome, delicious, and can be customized with chocolate chips or dried fruit. Great for lunchboxes or a mid-day energy boost!
Ingredients
3 cups crispy rice cereal or mixed whole-grain cereal
1 cup rolled oats
½ cup honey or maple syrup
½ cup peanut butter or almond butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: ¼ cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some extra paper over the edges for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, mix the cereal and oats. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together honey (or maple syrup) and peanut butter until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the cereal and oats, stirring until evenly combined. If adding chocolate chips or dried fruit, fold them in gently.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared dish using the back of a spoon or spatula to create an even layer.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm. Lift out using the parchment paper, then cut into 12 bars.
Notes
Storage: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bars can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Customization: Add mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Vegan Option: Substitute honey with maple syrup to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Breakfast
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 bars
- Calories: 150 kcal
