Name: Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups Cheerios cereal; ¾ cup creamy peanut butter; ½ cup honey; ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, to taste); ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for topping)

If you love quick, nostalgic snacks that hit the sweet spot, these Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are absolutely irresistible! Each bite is chewy, gooey, and bursting with rich peanut butter flavor, all wrapped up in a satisfyingly crunchy cereal base.

No baking required-just a handful of pantry staples, a simple stovetop melt, and a quick chill in the fridge! These bars are the ultimate grab-and-go treat, perfect for busy mornings, after-school snacks, or sharing at your next potluck.

They're not just easy-they're a crowd-pleasing favorite that's seriously addictive. I grew up making these with my mom, and now they're a staple in my own kitchen whenever I need a sweet pick-me-up in minutes!

Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars stacked on a plate with a glass of milk

Why You'll Love This Recipe

No baking required: These bars come together fast with zero oven time.
Irresistibly chewy and crunchy: The perfect balance of creamy peanut butter and crispy Cheerios.
Great for meal prep: Make a batch ahead and snack all week long.
Kid (and adult) approved: Universally loved by all ages.

Key Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cheerios Cereal

This is the backbone of your bars, giving them their signature crunch and light, toasty flavor. You can use classic original Cheerios or try honey nut for a bit of extra sweetness. Whole grain varieties work too, but avoid heavily flavored types unless you want to mix things up!

Creamy Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is the star of this show-it's what binds everything together and infuses the bars with rich, nutty goodness. Use creamy peanut butter for best texture, but chunky works if you love extra crunch. Natural peanut butter is fine, just make sure it's well-stirred so the bars set properly.

Honey

Honey acts as the sweetener and sticky glue for these bars, helping them hold their shape. Choose a mild honey so it doesn't overpower the peanut butter. You can swap in maple syrup or agave if needed, but the flavor and texture may change slightly.

Light Brown Sugar

A little brown sugar deepens the sweetness and helps the bars set firm. Make sure to gently pack it when measuring. If you don't have brown sugar, use granulated sugar, but the flavor will be lighter.

Vanilla Extract

A splash of vanilla rounds out all the flavors, giving a warm, bakery-style aroma. Pure vanilla extract is best, but imitation works in a pinch.

Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars cooking process

Instructions for Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Line the Pan

Line an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, honey, and brown sugar. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and just begins to bubble-about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (and salt, if using).

Stir in the Cheerios

Pour the Cheerios into a large mixing bowl. Immediately pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the cereal. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together until the cereal is evenly coated.

Press and Set

Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Use a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the corners. If using, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top and press them gently into the bars.

Chill and Slice

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes, or until the bars are firm and set. Lift out using the parchment overhang, transfer to a cutting board, and slice into bars. Enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Make It Nut-Free

Swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter to make these safe for nut allergies. The bars will still be chewy and delicious!

Boost the Protein

Stir in ¼ cup of your favorite protein powder with the Cheerios for a post-workout snack. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash more honey to help it bind.

Gluten-Free Option

Use certified gluten-free oat-based cereal instead of Cheerios to make these bars gluten-free. Always check labels if serving to someone with celiac or gluten sensitivity.

Chocolate Lovers' Dream

For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before chilling, or stir in some mini M&Ms with the cereal for pops of color and crunch.

Add Some Crunch

Mix in ¼ cup of roasted peanuts, chopped pretzels, or even dried fruit for a fun texture and flavor change-up.

Serving Suggestions

Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars are perfect with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or packed into school lunchboxes. For dessert, try cutting them into smaller bites and serving as part of a homemade snack board alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or other bite-sized treats. Top with extra drizzles of melted chocolate and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a decadent finish!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. These bars are best enjoyed at room temp, but they hold together well chilled, too. No reheating necessary!

Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars (FAQ)

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

A: Yes! Just be sure to stir it well so the oil is fully incorporated. Bars made with natural peanut butter may be slightly softer, so chill longer if needed.

Q: Are Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars gluten-free?

A: Traditional Cheerios are gluten-free, but always check the packaging to be sure. For strict gluten-free needs, use a certified gluten-free cereal.

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?

A: Absolutely. These are perfect for meal prep and can be made up to a week in advance. Store in an airtight container for best freshness.

Thank you for checking out my Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars! They're sweet, chewy, and so easy to make-perfect for any occasion. I hope you'll give them a try and share your thoughts below. If you love this recipe, leave a comment or rating and spread the peanut buttery joy!

★★★★★ 4.80 from 174 ratings