Description
These no-bake cereal bars are a quick and easy snack made with your choice of cereal, peanut or nut butter, and natural sweeteners like honey or agave. With optional add-ins like protein powder and salt for extra flavor and nutrition, they are perfect for a healthy treat or on-the-go breakfast. The bars are pressed firmly and chilled in the freezer to ensure they hold together well and can be sliced into perfect portions.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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 Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp protein powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch pan with wax or parchment paper. For larger batches, double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan.
- Warm the Nut Butter: If needed, gently warm the peanut butter or chosen nut butter until it is easily stirrable, making it easier to combine with the other ingredients.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cereal, peanut butter, sweetener (agave, honey, or brown rice syrup), and any optional ingredients such as salt or protein powder. Stir well until all components are evenly mixed.
- Transfer Mixture to Pan: Pour the combined cereal mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Press Down Firmly: Place a second sheet of parchment paper on top of the mixture. Press down very firmly to compact the bars, which is key for keeping them together after slicing.
- Chill to Set: Freeze the pan for about 30 minutes, or until the bars are firm enough to slice easily without crumbling.
- Slice and Store: Once set, remove the bars from the pan and cut into squares or rectangles. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, freezer, or a cool, dry place on the counter to maintain freshness.
Notes
- You can customize the cereal and nut butter to your liking to create different flavors and textures.
- To ensure the bars hold together well, pressing firmly before chilling is essential.
- These bars do not require baking, making them a quick and easy option for a healthy snack.
- Store bars in an airtight container to retain freshness, especially if kept outside the fridge.
- Adding protein powder boosts the nutritional value, making these bars suitable as a post-workout snack.
