Description
These Cheerio Bars are a festive, sweet, and crunchy treat perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime snacking. Made with buttery melted marshmallows and smooth peanut butter, combined with classic Cheerios cereal and colorful red and green M&M’s, these bars are easy to prepare and delicious to share.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 10.5 oz bag mini marshmallows
- ½ cup smooth peanut butter
- 5 cups Cheerios
- 1 cup red and green M&M’s, plus more for decorating
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Spray a 13×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the bars don’t stick after setting.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly for about 15 minutes until fully melted and smooth.
- Add Peanut Butter: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the peanut butter until the mixture is completely combined and creamy.
- Mix in Cheerios and M&M’s: Gently fold in the Cheerios until coated evenly with the marshmallow mixture, then add the red and green M&M’s and stir to distribute them evenly.
- Press into Pan: Using a greased spatula or a piece of plastic wrap, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle additional M&M’s on top and gently press them into the mixture while it is still warm.
- Cool and Cut: Let the bars cool completely at room temperature for about 10 minutes to set. Once firm, cut into 24 squares and serve.
Notes
- Use smooth peanut butter for a creamy texture that blends well with marshmallows.
- You can substitute Cheerios with other cereals like Rice Krispies if preferred.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together well after cooling.
- Store bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days.
- For a nut-free version, omit the peanut butter and use sunflower seed butter or additional marshmallows.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
