A Quick, Wholesome Snack Straight from the Pantry
When the oven’s off and the kids are hungry, peanut butter cheerio bars are my go-to solution. With just four simple ingredients, this no-bake recipe comes together in minutes and never fails to please.
Whether I’m packing lunchboxes, needing a fast breakfast bite, or just something sweet for snack time, these chewy bars hit the mark. They’re easy, freezer-friendly, and made with pantry staples I always have on hand, just like these peanut butter oatmeal balls that are another go-to no-bake favorite in our house.
So let’s take a look at what you’ll need to get started.
What You’ll Need to Make Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
Simple Tools to Make It Stress-Free
One of the best things about this recipe is how little cleanup it requires. You won’t need anything fancy—just a few basics you probably already have in your kitchen:
- Mixing bowl – For combining the coated cereal easily and evenly.
- Small saucepan – To gently melt and mix the peanut butter and honey.
- Spatula – Ideal for folding in the Cheerios and pressing the mixture into the dish.
- 8×8 baking dish – The perfect size for cutting clean, snackable squares.
- Parchment paper – Keeps the bars from sticking and makes them easy to lift out.
Quick tip: Spray your spatula lightly with olive oil before pressing the mixture—it keeps things from getting too sticky!
Four Ingredients, Big Flavor
You’ll only need four pantry staples to make these peanut butter cheerio bars. Each one serves a purpose—together, they create chewy, slightly sweet bars with a nutty crunch.
- 3 ½ cups Honey Nut Cheerios – Use the classic variety. The ones pictured here are a multigrain version with a bit more texture, but any ring-style oat cereal will work. Stick to the original for that familiar flavor and subtle sweetness.
- ½ cup honey – Acts as the binder while adding natural sweetness. Raw or regular honey both work beautifully.
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter – Choose one with minimal ingredients—ideally just peanuts and salt. Avoid added sugars or palm oil.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional) – Makes the mixture easier to press and smooths out the texture.
These ingredients are simple and wholesome, but check your cereal label if you’re avoiding gluten—some may contain barley malt.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Chill Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hr 10 min
Step-by-Step Guide for Busy Days
Making these peanut butter cheerio bars is as easy as it gets. There’s no baking involved, and the cleanup is quick—just how we like it on hectic afternoons.
1- Line the Pan
Take an 8×8-inch dish and lay a sheet of parchment paper inside, letting the edges hang over slightly—this makes it easier to lift the bars out later. For extra hold, lightly spray the bottom of the pan before adding the paper.
2- Melt and Mix
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, honey, and olive oil (if using). Stir constantly to avoid scorching, and heat until the mixture becomes smooth and gently bubbly—this takes about 2–3 minutes.
3- Add the Cheerios
Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately pour in the Honey Nut Cheerios and use a spatula to gently fold until all the cereal is evenly coated. Work quickly while the mixture is still warm and easy to stir.
Chill, Slice, and Serve
4- Press and Flatten
Pour the coated mixture into your prepared pan. Lightly oil the back of a spoon or spatula (or even the bottom of a glass) and press it down firmly to create an even layer.
5- Chill to Set
Place the dish in the fridge and let it cool for at least one hour until the bars are firm. This helps everything bind together and makes slicing easier.
6- Slice and Enjoy
Once firm, lift the mixture out using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares or bars, and you’re done! Keep extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to a month.
Tips and Hacks
Customize Your Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
Once you’ve tried the basic recipe, it’s easy to add your own twist. Try stirring in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a handful of shredded coconut for a fun flavor boost. Or check out our crunchy peanut bar recipe if you’re in the mood for something with a little extra bite.
If you’re using a multigrain or textured variety of Cheerios, expect a little extra crunch—it works just as well!
Quick Fixes for Busy Days
- Lightly spray your spatula with oil to keep it from sticking.
- Press with a glass for a smooth, even layer.
- Freeze leftovers wrapped in parchment for easy grab-and-go snacks.
- Short on time? Chill in the freezer for 15 minutes instead of the fridge.
These little hacks make peanut butter cheerio bars even easier to prepare, especially when time is short and hungry tummies are waiting.
Nutrition Score (Per Bar, Approx. 12 Servings)
Wholesome Energy in Every Bite
Each peanut butter cheerio bar offers a balanced mix of sweetness, healthy fats, and protein—making it more satisfying than the average snack.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
These bars are made with natural peanut butter and honey, so you avoid artificial additives and keep things simple. If you’re wondering how peanut butter fits into a healthy lifestyle, this article from Healthline covers the benefits, concerns, and common myths. For the healthiest version of peanut butter cheerio bars, use Cheerios and peanut butter with no added sugars or oils.
FAQs About Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars
What happened to peanut butter Cheerios?
Peanut Butter Cheerios were once part of the Cheerios flavor lineup, but they were discontinued in some regions due to low sales. However, newer varieties like Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerios are still available in many stores. Just be sure to check ingredient labels if you’re sensitive to gluten or added sugars.
Are peanut butter Cheerios healthy?
In moderation, yes! Peanut butter Cheerios can offer a source of protein and whole grains, but they do contain added sugars, so it’s best to enjoy them as part of a balanced diet. Making your own peanut butter cheerio bars lets you control the sweetness and quality of ingredients.
How much sugar is in peanut butter Cheerios?
According to the General Mills website, a 1-cup serving of Peanut Butter Cheerios contains around 9 grams of sugar. Always read the nutrition label to verify this, especially if you’re monitoring sugar intake for your family.
Why are chocolate peanut butter Cheerios not gluten-free?
The barley malt extract used in some flavored Cheerios contains gluten, which makes them unsafe for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. If you’re looking for a gluten-friendly option, the original Honey Nut Cheerios are a safer choice—but always check for updated ingredient information on the packaging.
Conclusion: Why Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars Are a Family Favorite
Whether you’re a busy mom like me or simply someone who loves no-fuss recipes, these peanut butter cheerio bars are a snack-time hero. They’re quick to prepare, freezer-friendly, and made from simple pantry ingredients you can trust. No baking, no mess—just a wholesome, chewy treat that keeps little bellies happy and full.
In our home, they’ve become a regular request—sometimes as lunchbox fillers, other times as afternoon pick-me-ups with a glass of milk. I especially love how customizable they are, and how easy it is to make a batch ahead of time and tuck it into the fridge or freezer.
So next time you’re in a pinch for something sweet but not over-the-top, give this recipe a try. It might just become a new family favorite—just like it did in our kitchen.