Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios is not just a delightful treat; it’s an experience packed into a quick and simple recipe that anyone can create. Imagine the comforting aroma of melted butter combined with the sweetness of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your kitchen while you prepare this scrumptious snack. Perfect for satisfying afternoon cravings or as a quick breakfast option, Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios combines the beloved flavors of childhood with a modern twist. It’s so simple and satisfying that it has become a family favorite!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, this snack can easily be whipped up in about 20 minutes. It’s ideal for busy mornings or lazy afternoons when you want something tasty but don’t have the time to make an elaborate dish. Plus, using Cheerios cereal makes it a fun treat that even kids will love, making it a great option for an impromptu family gathering or a surprise snack for friends.
Why You’ll Love This Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes!
- Nutritious Options: Cheerios provide a wholesome base.
- Decadent Flavor: A delicious blend of buttery and cinnamon notes.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or dried fruits for a twist.
- Family-Friendly: A treat that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To make Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios, begin by preparing your workspace to ensure a smooth cooking process. Gather all your ingredients – granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, butter, vanilla extract, and Cheerios. It’s best to have these ready to go before starting to cook.
Next, you will need a few essential tools: a small bowl for mixing the sugar and spices, a large nonstick skillet for toasting the cereal, and a stirring utensil to mix everything together. Ensure that your nonstick skillet is clean, as this will prevent the Cheerios from sticking and help achieve that perfect toasted finish. Finally, have a cooling rack or a plate ready to let your finished snack cool before serving. This preparation ensures that cooking is breezy and enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 55 g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon table salt
- 115 g salted butter, sliced
- 1.25 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 120 g Cheerios cereal
Instructions
Step 1: Mix Sugar and Spice
Start by combining the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and table salt in a small bowl. It’s important to stir these ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors. This step may seem minor, but even coating means every bite will pack a flavorful punch.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large nonstick skillet, set over medium heat, place the sliced salted butter. Allow it to melt completely, swirling it around the pan to coat the bottom evenly. After the butter is melted, stir in the pure vanilla extract until its delightful aroma begins to fill the space. This fragrant step enhances the overall taste of your final snack…
Step 3: Toast the Cheerios
Once the butter and vanilla are well combined, it’s time to add the Cheerios cereal. Pour them into the skillet and give them a gentle stir to ensure they’re completely coated in that buttery goodness. Continuously stir the mixture for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the Cheerios to toast lightly and become fragrant; this toasting phase adds a depth of flavor and an irresistible crunch.
Step 4: Coat and Cool
After toasting the Cheerios, remove the skillet from the heat promptly to prevent overcooking. Now, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the toasted cereal. Toss everything thoroughly until the Cheerios are completely coated in the sweet and spicy mixture. Transfer the coated cereal to a plate or cooling rack and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This cooling stage is vital because it allows the cinnamon sugar to adhere to the cereal, creating that crave-worthy texture.
Variations
- Protein: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy protein boost.
- Vegetables: For a healthier twist, mix in crispy apple slices or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or pumpkin spice, for varied flavor profiles.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the skillet is nonstick to prevent the Cheerios from sticking.
- Keep stirring the cereal during toasting to ensure even coverage and color.
- Allow the coated cereal to cool completely before serving for optimal texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in small bowls as a snack or treat.
- Pair with a fresh fruit platter for a balanced snack option.
Tips
- For an extra layer of sweetness, drizzle honey or maple syrup over the finished product.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them crunchy and delicious.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 2 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and still achieve delicious results.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep the Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunchiness.
Can I use other cereal types instead of Cheerios?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with various cereals, just keep in mind the cooking time.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s a fun and safe snack for kids, just supervise the cooking process if they’re helping!
Conclusion
Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios is a snack that’s sure to bring warmth and joy with each bite. The fantastic blend of buttery richness and sweet cinnamon makes it hard to resist! Make this recipe for an easy treat that offers both comfort and convenience. As you enjoy this delightful creation, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make it uniquely yours! Your friends and family will surely appreciate the effort. Please share your thoughts in the comments below, or let us know how you tailored your version of this amazing recipe!
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Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios is a fun and quick snack that combines buttery richness with sweet cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients
- 55 g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon table salt
- 115 g salted butter, sliced
- 1.25 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 120 g Cheerios cereal
Instructions
- Start by combining the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and table salt in a small bowl. It’s important to stir these ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- In a large nonstick skillet, set over medium heat, place the sliced salted butter. Allow it to melt completely, swirling it around the pan to coat the bottom evenly. After the butter is melted, stir in the pure vanilla extract.
- Add the Cheerios cereal to the skillet and give them a gentle stir. Continuously stir the mixture for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the Cheerios to toast lightly.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the toasted cereal. Toss until completely coated, then transfer to a plate or cooling rack to cool completely.
Notes
Allow the coated cereal to cool completely before serving for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 2 g