Cheese-Raisin Nut Bars
Cheese-Raisin Nut Bars are delicious, chewy treats with a sweet cereal base, cream cheese richness, and optional flavor variations, perfect for snack lovers and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 9 x 9 x 2-inch square pan.
- In a 3-quart saucepan, heat margarine, miniature marshmallows, cream cheese, and ground cinnamon over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in Raisin Nut Bran cereal until thoroughly coated.
- Pat the mixture into the prepared pan and let it cool.
- Cut into 2 x 1 1/2-inch bars.
- Yield: 24 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a full-fat cream cheese instead of reduced fat, which can alter the consistency. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute some miniature marshmallows with unsweetened coconut flakes. Be sure to coat the cereal thoroughly to ensure every bite is delicious. This recipe is great for customizing with different cereals or nuts if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect for on-the-go snacks or lunchbox treats. Serve them alongside a glass of milk or a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream(Sue Morris - Oklahoma) for a delightful dessert. They also pair well with fresh fruit for a balanced snack. Consider serving them at gatherings for a sweet touch that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Cheese-Raisin Nut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To enjoy them at room temperature again, simply take them out of the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Raisin Nut Bars contains roughly 267 calories, with 5g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (106% of the Daily Value), calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. It also contributes 30g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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'll need to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they melt evenly. Adjust the melting time slightly, as larger marshmallows may take a bit longer to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the Raisin Nut Bran cereal with a gluten-free cereal that has similar texture and flavor. Be sure to double-check the labels to confirm that all ingredients are gluten-free to keep it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Yes, you can freeze Cheese-Raisin Nut Bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
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).