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#### **Step 2: Mix with the Cheerios**
Once your peanut butter and honey mixture is smooth, add the Cheerios cereal to the bowl. Stir gently to coat the cereal evenly with the peanut butter mixture. Be careful not to break the cereal, as you’ll want to maintain the crunchiness.
#### **Step 3: Press into a Pan**
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Pour the peanut butter-Cheerio mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly. Use a spatula or your hands (coated with a bit of oil or cooking spray) to press the mixture down firmly, ensuring it’s compact and holds together.
#### **Step 4: Chill and Set**
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the bars are set and firm enough to cut into squares. This step helps the bars hold their shape and ensures a chewy, satisfying texture.
#### **Step 5: Slice and Serve**
Once the bars are fully chilled and set, remove them from the refrigerator and lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or bars, and serve!
### **Why This Recipe Works:**
These bars are a perfect combination of chewy and crunchy, thanks to the peanut butter and honey that bind the Cheerios together. The honey adds a natural sweetness, while the peanut butter offers a rich, creamy flavor that balances everything out. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, these bars come together effortlessly, making them a perfect snack for busy days.
### **Tips and Variations:**
– **Add-ins:** While this recipe is perfect in its simplicity, feel free to get creative by adding in extra ingredients like chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries. You can also add a handful of chopped nuts for extra crunch.
– **Make It Vegan:** Swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make these bars completely vegan.
– **Use Other Cereals:** While Cheerios work perfectly, you can experiment with other cereals like Rice Krispies or Cornflakes for different textures and flavors.
– **Store for Later:** These bars store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or you can keep them in the fridge for a longer shelf life.
– **Gluten-Free Option:** Ensure you use gluten-free Cheerios if you’re making these bars for someone with a gluten sensitivity.
### **Conclusion:**
These **3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars** are the ultimate quick and easy snack that delivers big on flavor without requiring much effort. With just peanut butter, honey, and Cheerios, you can create a sweet, crunchy treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making them for a family snack, lunchboxes, or an on-the-go bite, these bars are a hit with everyone. Give them a try and enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this homemade treat!
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