No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

Try these delicious no bake peanut butter cereal bars. A perfect for on-the-go snack or dessert, they combine the rich flavor of peanut butter with a crunchy texture from cereals and nuts. Ideal for kids’ lunches, parties, or a quick treat at home, these bars are simple to make and require no baking. You’ll love how versatile they are; customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These bars come together in just 25 minutes, making them a hassle-free treat.
• No Baking Required: Enjoy a delicious dessert without turning on the oven—perfect for hot days!
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in different cereals or add other mix-ins like dried fruit or chocolate chips.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love both making and eating these bars, making it a fun family activity.
• Perfect for Snacking: Packed with protein and flavor, they’re great for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your no bake peanut butter cereal bars, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Spoon or spatula
• 15” x 10” x 1” baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick spray: Ensures that your bars don’t stick to the pan, making them easier to remove and serve.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for heating the corn syrup and sugar mixture evenly.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make your no bake peanut butter cereal bars:

Cereal Base

• 4 cups cheerios
• 4 cups crisp rice cereal

Add-ins

• 2 cups dry roasted peanuts
• 2 cups M&Ms

Binding Mixture

• 2 cups light corn syrup
• 1 ¾ cups sugar
• 2 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
• 1 ¾ teaspoons vanilla

How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Spray a 15” x 10” x 1” baking pan with non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to cut the bars later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
* Cheerios
* Crisp rice cereal
* Dry roasted peanuts
* M&Ms

Set this mixture aside while you prepare the binding sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Syrup Mixture

In a medium-sized saucepan:
1. Bring the corn syrup and sugar to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
2. Once boiling, remove from heat.
3. Stir in creamy peanut butter and vanilla until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the syrup mixture over the cereal mixture in the large bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5: Set the Bars

Spread the mixture into your prepared pan. Press down firmly to create an even layer. Let sit at room temperature until set, about 30 minutes before cutting into bars.

Enjoy your homemade no bake peanut butter cereal bars as a delightful snack!

How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

No bake peanut butter cereal bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a fun dessert, these bars can easily fit into your serving style.

For a Quick Snack

• On-the-Go: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper for an easy snack during busy days.
• Lunchbox Treat: Cut the bars into smaller pieces and add them to school lunches for a sweet surprise.

As a Dessert

• With Ice Cream: Serve warm bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Garnished with Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top for extra sweetness and visual appeal.

For Parties

• Party Platter: Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter for gatherings.
• Themed Decor: Use colorful plates or decorations matching the M&M’s colors for festive occasions.

How to Perfect No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

To ensure your no bake peanut butter cereal bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Ensure Proper Mixing: Make sure to mix the syrup and cereal thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Check that your peanuts and cereals are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Allow Enough Cooling Time: Let the bars set completely before cutting to prevent them from falling apart.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add dried fruits or chocolate chips for additional flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

Pairing side dishes with your no bake peanut butter cereal bars can enhance your snacking experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the chewy bars.
3. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy veggies provide a savory crunch that pairs well with the sweet flavor of the bars.
4. Chocolate Milkshake: A rich shake pairs perfectly, making it feel like a dessert duo.
5. Nut Trail Mix: A handful of mixed nuts offers protein and crunch, making it an ideal pairing.
6. Coconut Chia Pudding: This creamy side dish provides healthy fats and fiber, balancing out the richness of the cereal bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making no bake peanut butter cereal bars is simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch for to ensure your bars turn out perfectly.

• Ignoring the measurements: Precision is key in baking. Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately to avoid inconsistencies in texture and taste.
• Overheating the syrup mixture: Boiling the corn syrup and sugar for too long can cause it to become too thick. Remove it from the heat as soon as it boils for the best results.
• Not mixing quickly enough: Once you combine the syrup with the cereal mixture, work fast! The mixture will start to set quickly, so toss everything together immediately.
• Skipping the non-stick spray: Forgetting to spray your pan can lead to a sticky mess. Always use non-stick spray to make removing your bars easier.
• Not letting them cool properly: Patience is crucial. Letting the bars sit until they are fully set ensures they hold their shape when cut.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• These no bake peanut butter cereal bars last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, placing the bars directly in the pan until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different cereals for No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars?

Yes! You can mix and match cereals based on your preference. Just maintain the same total volume.

How do I make these No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars vegan?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup and use plant-based peanut butter.

What if I don’t have M&M’s?

Feel free to replace M&M’s with chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts for a different flavor profile!

How should I cut my No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars?

Use a sharp knife and let them cool completely before cutting into squares or rectangles for clean edges.

Final Thoughts

These no bake peanut butter cereal bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make an excellent snack or dessert option that you can customize with your favorite mix-ins. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients!

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No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

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Pin Recipe

Indulge in the delightful world of no bake peanut butter cereal bars, a perfect treat for any occasion! These bars combine the rich, nutty flavor of creamy peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of cereals and nuts, making them an irresistible snack. Ideal for busy days, kids’ lunches, or as a quick dessert, they are incredibly easy to whip up in just 25 minutes without ever turning on the oven. Plus, these versatile bars allow you to customize them with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors while keeping your family fueled throughout the day!

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups Cheerios
• 4 cups crisp rice cereal
• 2 cups dry roasted peanuts
• 2 cups M&Ms
• 2 cups light corn syrup
• 1 ¾ cups sugar
• 2 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
• 1 ¾ teaspoons vanilla

Instructions

1. Spray a 15'' x 10'' x 1'' baking pan with non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix together Cheerios, crisp rice cereal, dry roasted peanuts, and M&Ms; set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring corn syrup and sugar to a boil while stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour the syrup mixture over the cereal mixture and stir until fully coated.
5. Spread into the prepared pan and press down firmly. Let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into bars.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Feel free to replace M&Ms with chocolate chips or dried fruit for different flavors. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for optimal texture and taste.