Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade cereal bars are a quick, healthy, and customizable snack perfect for busy mornings or as an on-the-go treat. With just three simple ingredients—cereal, nut butter, and a liquid sweetener—you can create a chewy, fiber-packed bar that rivals store-bought versions. The best part? You can tailor the flavor to your liking by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a drizzle of melted coconut butter. Whether you’re preparing a school lunchbox snack or a post-workout bite, these bars are both satisfying and versatile.

Cereal Bars

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cereal of choice

  • 2/3 cup peanut butter or nut butter of choice

  • 1/2 cup agave, honey, or brown rice syrup

  • Optional: 1/2 tsp salt

  • Optional: 3 tbsp protein powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch square pan with wax or parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars once set.

  2. Warm the Nut Butter: If your nut butter is too thick to stir, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it becomes easily stirrable.

  3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cereal, nut butter, and sweetener. Add salt or protein powder if desired. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated.

  4. Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Place a second sheet of parchment paper over the top and press down firmly to ensure the bars hold together once set.

  5. Chill: Refrigerate or freeze the mixture until firm, about 30 minutes.

  6. Slice and Serve: Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice into bars.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Approximately 9 bars

  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes

  • Chilling Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate Cereal Bars: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder and 2 1/2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. For an extra treat, dip the finished bars in melted chocolate.

  • Nutella Snack Bars: Replace the nut butter with Nutella for a chocolate-hazelnut twist.

  • Cookie Dough Bars: Use cashew butter and stir in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract.

  • Strawberry Cereal Bars: Mix in 1/3 cup freeze-dried strawberries and drizzle with melted coconut butter or white chocolate chips.

  • Peanut Butter Cereal Bars: Use smooth or crunchy peanut butter and add 1/3 cup crushed peanuts or peanut butter chips.

  • Marshmallow Bars: Stir in 1/2 cup mini marshmallows or vegan mini marshmallows.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cereal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to a month. No reheating is necessary; enjoy them straight from the fridge or at room temperature.

FAQs

What type of cereal works best for these bars?

Choose cereals with small flakes or shapes, such as Cheerios, Rice Krispies, or Fruit Loops. Ensure the cereal is dry and crisp to maintain the bar’s texture.

Can I use any nut butter?

Yes, you can use peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. If using a natural nut butter, ensure it’s well-stirred and not too oily.

Is there a vegan option for the sweetener?

Yes, you can use agave or brown rice syrup as vegan-friendly alternatives to honey.

Can I add chocolate chips to the mixture?

Absolutely! Stir in mini chocolate chips or chunks for added sweetness and texture.

Are these bars gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free cereal and nut butter, these bars can be gluten-free.

How can I make these bars higher in protein?

Add 3 tablespoons of protein powder to the mixture to boost the protein content.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup can be used, but you may need to adjust the amount of nut butter to compensate for the thinner consistency.

Do I need to bake these bars?

No, these cereal bars are no-bake. Simply mix the ingredients, press into a pan, and chill until set.

How do I prevent the bars from being too sticky?

Ensure the nut butter is well-mixed and not too oily. Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together.

Can I make these bars nut-free?

Yes, use sunflower seed butter or a similar nut-free alternative to make the bars suitable for those with nut allergies.

Conclusion

These easy 3-ingredient cereal bars are a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, customizable, and nutritious snack. With endless flavor possibilities and minimal preparation time, they’re perfect for busy individuals and families alike. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast option, a post-workout snack, or a lunchbox treat, these bars offer both convenience and taste. Try them today and discover your favorite flavor combination!

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Cereal Bars

Cereal Bars

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes
  • Yield: 9 bars
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

These homemade cereal bars are a quick, healthy, and customizable snack perfect for busy mornings or as an on-the-go treat. With just three simple ingredients—cereal, nut butter, and a liquid sweetener—you can create a chewy, fiber-packed bar that rivals store-bought versions.

Ingredients

3 cups cereal of choice

2/3 cup peanut butter or nut butter of choice

1/2 cup agave, honey, or brown rice syrup

Optional: 1/2 tsp salt

Optional: 3 tbsp protein powder

Instructions

  1. Line an 8-inch square pan with wax or parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars once set.
  2. If your nut butter is too thick to stir, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it becomes easily stirrable.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cereal, nut butter, and sweetener. Add salt or protein powder if desired. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated.
  4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Place a second sheet of parchment paper over the top and press down firmly to ensure the bars hold together once set.
  5. Refrigerate or freeze the mixture until firm, about 30 minutes.
  6. Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice into bars.

Notes

  • For chocolate cereal bars, add 1/4 cup cocoa powder and 2 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Dip finished bars in melted chocolate for extra sweetness.
  • For a Nutella twist, replace the nut butter with Nutella.
  • For cookie dough bars, stir in mini chocolate chips and vanilla extract.
  • To make strawberry cereal bars, mix in freeze-dried strawberries and drizzle with melted coconut butter.
  • For a peanut butter version, add crushed peanuts or peanut butter chips.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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