Cereal Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cereal bars are a versatile and customizable snack that can be tailored to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer peanut butter or another nut butter, agave or honey, this recipe can accommodate different tastes and dietary needs. They’re quick to make, requiring only 5 minutes of prep time, and they can be stored for later, making them ideal for busy mornings or packed lunchboxes. Plus, you can easily adjust the recipe by adding protein powder for a boost or adding a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

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. Line an 8-inch pan with wax or parchment paper. If you prefer a larger batch, you can double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan.

2. If necessary, gently warm the nut butter until it becomes easily stirrable.

3. In a large bowl, stir together all the ingredients until well combined.

4. Pour the cereal mixture into the prepared pan. Place a second sheet of parchment paper on top and press the cereal mixture firmly into the pan. Be sure to press it down very firmly to ensure the bars hold together after slicing.

5. Freeze for about 30 minutes or until the bars are firm enough to slice.

6. Once firm, slice into bars and store leftovers in the refrigerator, freezer, or at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 9 cereal bars

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes (plus 30 minutes to freeze)

Variations

• Nut Butter: You can use almond butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter of your choice. For a vegan version, choose a plant-based nut butter.

• Sweeteners: Substitute agave with maple syrup or brown rice syrup. Adjust the sweetness based on your preference.

• Protein Boost: Add 3 tablespoons of protein powder to make these bars a more filling option.

• Flavor Add-ins: You can mix in dried fruit, chocolate chips, seeds, or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store your cereal bars in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months. If you store them at room temperature, ensure they are kept in a cool, dry place to maintain their freshness.

FAQs

1. How do I prevent the cereal bars from falling apart?

Be sure to press the mixture very firmly into the pan, which will help the bars hold together once they are sliced. Freezing them for 30 minutes also helps to solidify them.

2. Can I use a different type of cereal?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite cereal. Whole grain, gluten-free, or high-protein cereals can work well in this recipe.

3. Is it necessary to use peanut butter?

No, you can substitute peanut butter with any nut butter you prefer, such as almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter.

4. Can I make these bars nut-free?

Yes, you can use sunflower seed butter or other nut-free alternatives if you want to make these bars nut-free.

5. How can I make these bars sweeter?

Adjust the sweetener based on your taste. You can add a little more agave or honey or even mix in some chocolate chips.

6. Can I add protein powder to these bars?

Yes, adding protein powder is an optional step. You can add up to 3 tablespoons for an extra protein boost.

7. Can I use a different sweetener besides honey or agave?

Yes, you can use brown rice syrup, maple syrup, or even stevia (for a low-sugar version). Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months.

9. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these cereal bars can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. They are a great make-ahead option.

10. How long do these bars last?

Stored in an airtight container, these bars will last about a week in the refrigerator and up to three months in the freezer.

Conclusion

These homemade cereal bars are the ultimate quick and healthy snack that everyone in the family will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are customizable to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you need a quick breakfast or a nutritious snack, these bars are perfect for busy days. Make a batch today and enjoy a delicious treat that’s both satisfying and energizing!