O'Henrys
O'Henrys are rich, no-bake bars combining crunchy cereal, smooth peanut butter, and sweet chocolate and butterscotch toppings. Perfect as a quick treat or potluck dessert, they offer a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors that appeal to all ages and are easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sugar and dark Karo syrup in a saucepan, stirring constantly, until just boiling. Remove from heat.
- Add peanut butter to the sugar mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the cereal and mix well.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9 x 13 inch pan.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butterscotch tidbits and chocolate tidbits over low heat.
- Pour the melted butterscotch and chocolate mixture over the cereal layer.
- Spread evenly and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute almond butter for peanut butter if you're looking for a nut-free option. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the peanut butter mixture. Be sure to stir the sugar and Karo syrup constantly to prevent burning. If you prefer a crunchier texture, use Rice Krispie Bars instead of Special K cereal.
Serving Suggestions
Cut O'Henrys into bars and serve as a sweet treat or snack. They are perfect for parties or as a lunchbox surprise. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. They also complement flavors in Baked Tomato And Cheese Casserole, offering a sweet contrast to savory dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover O'Henrys in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them, which can extend their freshness by a couple of weeks. For best texture, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as they tend to firm up when refrigerated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of O'Henrys contains roughly 357 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (103% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g 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 a different type of cereal?
Yes, you can substitute with other cereals like Rice Krispies or Cornflakes. Just ensure they are crispy and can hold the mixture well. Each cereal will impart a slightly different flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference.
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?
To prevent sticking, lightly grease your hands with cooking spray or butter before handling the mixture. This will make it easier to spread and shape. You can also use a spatula to help distribute the mixture into the pan without getting too sticky.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! O'Henrys can be made a few days in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container. They actually improve in flavor as they sit, making them great for parties or events where you want to prepare ahead.
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).