These cereal bars are incredibly easy to make—no oven required. They’re naturally sweetened with honey, have a delicious nutty flavor, and offer the perfect balance of crunch and chewiness. Great for both kids and adults, they’re portable, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable with your favorite add-ins.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
honey peanut butter (or other nut/seed butter) vanilla extract salt (optional) honey nut cereal (like Cheerios or similar) chopped nuts (optional) mini chocolate chips (optional, for topping)
Directions
In a saucepan over low heat, combine honey and peanut butter. Stir constantly until smooth and fully combined (do not boil).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.
In a large bowl, add the cereal and any optional chopped nuts.
Pour the warm honey-peanut butter mixture over the cereal and mix until well coated.
Press the mixture firmly into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to flatten evenly.
If desired, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top and press them in gently.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until set.
Cut into bars and store chilled for best texture.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 9 to 12 bars, depending on size. Preparation time: 10 minutes Chill time: 1–2 hours Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
Use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
Add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates.
Mix in shredded coconut, flaxseed, or chia seeds for extra nutrition.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a dessert-style bar.
Use gluten-free cereal to make the recipe gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To freeze, layer with parchment paper and freeze in a sealed container or bag for up to 2 months. No reheating is needed—just let frozen bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
FAQs
Can I make these bars nut-free?
Yes, use a nut-free cereal and substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter.
Are these bars gluten-free?
They can be, as long as you use a certified gluten-free cereal.
Can I use less honey?
You can slightly reduce the honey, but it acts as the binder. Too little may cause the bars to fall apart.
What type of cereal works best?
Honey nut O’s or similar oat-based cereals work best. Crisp rice cereal can be used for a different texture.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, stir in a few tablespoons of protein powder, and reduce the cereal slightly to maintain the right consistency.
Do these bars hold up at room temperature?
They stay firm for a few hours, but are best stored chilled, especially in warm weather.
How do I make the bars stick together better?
Press the mixture firmly into the pan and chill thoroughly. Don’t skip the cooling step.
Can I add chocolate inside the mixture?
Yes, but let the honey-peanut butter mixture cool slightly first to avoid melting the chocolate.
Are these bars healthy?
They’re made with whole ingredients and are naturally sweetened, making them a better option than many store-bought snacks.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Absolutely! This is a great no-bake recipe for kids to help mix and press into the pan (with adult supervision for the stove step).
Conclusion
Honey Nut Cereal Bars are the perfect homemade snack—simple, sweet, and satisfying. With just a few ingredients and no baking required, they’re ideal for busy families, school lunches, or healthy snacking on the go. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins and enjoy a chewy, crunchy treat that everyone will love.
Honey Nut Cereal Bars are a quick, no-bake treat made with crunchy cereal, creamy peanut butter, and sweet honey. They’re chewy, satisfying, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or an energy boost on the go.
Ingredients
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup peanut butter (or other nut/seed butter)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 tsp salt (optional)
3 cups honey nut cereal (like Cheerios)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional, for topping)
Instructions
In a saucepan over low heat, combine honey and peanut butter. Stir constantly until smooth and fully combined (do not boil).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.
In a large bowl, add the cereal and any optional chopped nuts.
Pour the warm honey-peanut butter mixture over the cereal and mix until well coated.
Press the mixture firmly into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to flatten evenly.
If desired, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top and press them in gently.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until set.
Cut into bars and store chilled for best texture.
Notes
Use almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter as alternatives to peanut butter.Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for variety.Mix in flaxseed, chia seeds, or shredded coconut for added nutrition.Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a dessert-like treat.Use gluten-free cereal for a gluten-free version.
