Cheerios Treats
Cheerios Treats are sweet, crunchy cereal bars combining marshmallows, peanut butter, and Cheerios for a delightful snack perfect for kids and parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 13 x 9-inch rectangular pan.
- Microwave margarine in a large microwavable bowl on high for 45 seconds, or until melted.
- Add marshmallows to the melted margarine; toss until coated.
- Microwave the mixture for 1 minute and 30 seconds on high, stirring after 45 seconds until smooth.
- Stir in peanut butter until well combined.
- Immediately stir in Cheerios; mix lightly until well coated.
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan, using a greased spatula or waxed paper.
- Let cool, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To add a twist to your Cheerios Treats, consider using almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute for peanut butter. You can also mix in some mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for added flavor and texture. Be sure to coat your hands or spatula with a bit of margarine when pressing the mixture into the pan to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Cheerios Treats are perfect for a quick snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. For a fun twist, serve alongside some fresh fruit or a side of yogurt. Consider including them in a picnic alongside other snacks like Pop'S Hush Puppies for a hearty spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cheerios Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness, but note that cold treats may become a bit hard. If you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for a short while before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheerios Treats contains roughly 251 calories, with 4g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (48% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of miniature ones?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows, but you will need to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even melting and mixing. Just be sure to adjust the melting time slightly to accommodate the larger size.
How do I make these treats more festive for a party?
To make your Cheerios Treats more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles or holiday-themed candies on top before they set. You can also cut them into fun shapes using cookie cutters for special occasions or celebrations.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Cheerios are often made from whole grain oats, which can be gluten-free; however, always check for gluten-free labeling to ensure safety. If you need a completely gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats or alternative cereals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).