Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cheerios Bars: The Ultimate No-Bake Treat

If you’re searching for an easy, delicious, and satisfying snack, look no further than Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cheerios Bars! These bars combine the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the gooey sweetness of marshmallows and the crunch of Cheerios to create a mouthwatering treat. Whether you’re making a quick dessert, prepping for a party, or looking for a nutritious and energy-boosting snack, these Cheerio Peanut Butter Bars with Marshmallows are the perfect solution.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these tasty Cheerio Crispy Treats, from the ingredients and preparation process to variations, storage tips, and frequently asked questions. Get ready to discover your new favorite no-bake dessert!

Why Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cheerios Bars Are a Must-Try

1. No-Bake and Super Easy

This recipe requires no oven, no complicated techniques, and just one pot. In less than 10 minutes, you’ll have a delicious snack ready to cool and set.

2. Simple Ingredients

You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already: Cheerios, peanut butter, marshmallows, and honey. No need for fancy or hard-to-find items!

3. Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved

These Cheerio Treats with Marshmallows are perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether for a school lunchbox, after-school snack, or a family movie night, they’re always a hit.

4. Great for Any Occasion

Need a party dessert, an easy holiday treat, or a quick snack for road trips? These bars fit the bill perfectly.

5. Customizable

The base recipe is fantastic, but you can add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts to make it even better.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cheerios Bars

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 cups Cheerios (Regular or Honey Nut Cheerios)
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter (or crunchy for added texture)
• ½ cup honey or light corn syrup (acts as a natural sweetener and binder)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances flavor)
• 3 cups mini marshmallows (melts into the peanut butter for a gooey consistency)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, but brings out the flavors)
• ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional mix-ins)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

• Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This makes it easier to remove and cut the bars.

Step 2: Melt the Peanut Butter and Honey

• In a large saucepan over low heat, combine peanut butter and honey (or corn syrup).
• Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, melted, and well blended.
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows

• While the peanut butter mixture is still warm, add the mini marshmallows.
• Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and incorporated into the mixture.
• If necessary, return the saucepan to low heat to help melt the marshmallows completely.

Step 4: Mix in the Cheerios

• Pour the Cheerios into the marshmallow mixture.
• Stir gently but quickly, ensuring all the Cheerios are evenly coated.
• If you’re adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, fold them in at this stage.

Step 5: Press the Mixture into the Pan

• Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
• Use a spatula or lightly greased hands to press it down evenly.
• If you want chewier bars, press lightly.
• If you prefer firmer, denser bars, press more firmly.

Step 6: Let It Set

• Let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
• For a quicker setting time, place the pan in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes.

Step 7: Cut and Serve

• Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper.
• Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

Variations and Flavor Add-Ins

These Peanut Butter Cheerio Treats are incredibly versatile. Here are some creative ways to switch things up:

1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerio Bars

• Add ½ cup of melted chocolate on top before letting them set.
• Mix in mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolaty bite.

2. Nutty Honey Nut Cheerios Marshmallow Treats

• Use Honey Nut Cheerios instead of regular Cheerios for a sweeter, nuttier taste.
• Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans.

3. Peanut Butter Marshmallow Rice Crispies Combo

• Combine 2 cups Cheerios and 2 cups Rice Krispies for a mixed texture.
• This variation gives you the best of both Rice Krispies Treats and Cheerio Marshmallow Treats.

4. Healthy Peanut Butter Cheerio Treats

• Use natural peanut butter without added sugar.
• Swap honey for maple syrup or agave syrup.
• Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or shredded coconut for extra nutrients.

Storage Tips

To keep your Cheerio Bars Marshmallow Treats fresh:

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Keep for up to 2 weeks for firmer bars.
• In the Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add an extra nutty crunch.

2. How do I prevent the bars from sticking to my hands?

Lightly grease your hands with butter or non-stick spray before pressing the mixture into the pan.

3. Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes! Use 2 cups of marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows.

4. What if I don’t have honey?

You can substitute with maple syrup, agave syrup, or light corn syrup.

5. Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure your marshmallows are gelatin-free.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect No-Bake Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cheerios Bars

These Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cheerios Bars are the ultimate no-bake snack—they’re sweet, crunchy, chewy, and packed with peanut butter goodness. Whether you enjoy them as a quick energy boost, a fun party treat, or a lunchbox snack, they are sure to be a hit.

So, grab your Cheerios, peanut butter, and marshmallows, and whip up a batch today! You’ll love how easy, delicious, and customizable these bars are. Enjoy every bite! 😊