No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars

Name: No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 3 cups Cheerios; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup honey; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

These delicious No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars are the perfect treat to make with your kids this Thanksgiving! Packed with crunchy cereal, creamy peanut butter, and a touch of honey, these bars are easy to prepare and require no baking. They are a fun, healthy snack that kids will love, making them an ideal addition to your holiday spread.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2025-11-13T08:43:47.723Z

A Perfect Holiday Treat

Holiday gatherings often call for special treats, and these No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars fit the bill perfectly. With their delightful crunch and delicious flavor, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The no-bake aspect makes them an easy option when you want something quick without the hassle of turning on the oven. Plus, these bars are visually appealing, making them a festive addition to any dessert table during the Thanksgiving season.

What sets these treats apart is their nutritious profile. Using Cheerios, a whole grain cereal, provides fiber and essential nutrients, while peanut butter adds healthy protein and fats. Honey serves as a natural sweetener, offering a better alternative to refined sugar. This balance of flavors and textures results in a snack that not only tastes great but also gives you and your little ones sustained energy throughout the day.

Easy to Customize

One of the joys of this recipe is how customizable it is. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra nutrition. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, consider using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. The possibilities are endless, and it's a fantastic way to involve kids in the kitchen by letting them choose their favorite ingredients.

You can also experiment with different types of cereal if Cheerios aren’t available. Try using other whole grain cereals or even granola for a different texture and flavor. These variations can make each batch unique and exciting, ensuring that your No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars are never boring!

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once you’ve prepared these bars, storing them properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just cut them into bars and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you’ll have a quick and healthy snack on hand whenever you crave something sweet.

Serving these bars is just as easy as making them! They can be enjoyed as an afternoon treat, a mid-morning snack, or even as part of a packed lunch. Consider pairing them with fresh fruit or yogurt for a well-rounded snack. During the holidays, they make for an excellent sweet treat at family gatherings, holiday parties, or cookie exchanges. Everyone will appreciate the delightful combination of flavors and health benefits in each bite.

Ingredients

Ingredients for No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars

3 cups Cheerios
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Mix and match the ingredients as desired for different flavors!

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well blended.

Add Cheerios

Gradually fold in the Cheerios until evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture.

Press into a Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan and press down firmly to create an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, cut into bars and enjoy!

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature.

Nutritional Benefits

These No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars offer numerous nutritional benefits, making them a smart choice for both kids and adults. Cheerios are a good source of whole grains, which contain important nutrients such as B vitamins and iron. Peanut butter contributes protein and healthy fats, creating a filling snack that can keep hunger at bay. The addition of honey brings natural sweetness without the guilt associated with refined sugars.

Including these bars in your diet can help promote sustained energy levels, making them ideal for active kids. Furthermore, the combination of healthy fats, protein, and whole grains supports a balanced diet, making these treats not just delicious, but also nourishing.

Engaging Kids in the Kitchen

Making these No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars is a wonderful opportunity to engage your kids in the kitchen. Involving children in cooking not only teaches them valuable skills but also creates lasting memories. They can help with measuring ingredients, stirring the mixture, and pressing it into the pan. These tasks are simple and safe, perfect for little hands.

Additionally, this recipe provides a platform to discuss nutrition. You can talk about the importance of healthy snacks and how each ingredient contributes to their overall well-being. Encouraging kids to take part in preparing their own snacks can foster healthy eating habits that last a lifetime.

Perfect for Gatherings

Looking for a versatile treat to bring to gatherings or potlucks? These No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars are an excellent choice. They can easily be prepped ahead of time and transported without worry. Their sturdy texture holds up well in various settings, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.

These bars are also a great option for parties because they cater to various dietary preferences. With no baking required and clean ingredients, they're suitable for both kids and adults, whether they follow a gluten-free diet or simply seek healthier dessert options. Just slice them up and watch them disappear!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add some extra texture to the bars.

→ How long do these bars last?

When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week.