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Easy No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars: Perfect Toddler Snacks for School & On-the-Go

These wholesome no-bake bars combine Cheerios cereal with peanut butter and honey for a protein-packed snack that toddlers love. Ready in under 10 minutes of active prep time, they're perfect for lunchboxes, after-school treats, and busy mornings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 13 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 3 cups Cheerios cereal
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dry roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare your pan: Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. Melt the binding ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and easily pourable (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat immediately.
  3. Mix everything together: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the Cheerios in a large bowl. Add optional chocolate chips and peanuts if using. Gently stir until every Cheerio is coated.
  4. Press and chill: Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press down firmly with the back of a spoon or your hands. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
  5. Cut and store: Remove from refrigerator and use parchment paper overhang to lift the slab out of the pan. Cut into bar-sized pieces. Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

Make nut-free with sunflower seed butter, cut into smaller pieces for toddlers, add ground flaxseed for nutrition boost, freeze well for up to 3 months, great for children as young as 2 to help prepare.