📝 Introduction
Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios are a nostalgic, cozy snack or light dessert that takes just minutes to make—but delivers all the flavor of a classic cinnamon-sugar treat. Think cinnamon toast, but crunchier and quicker.
This 5-ingredient recipe transforms plain Cheerios into something sweet, warm, buttery, and slightly crispy, with a touch of vanilla and cinnamon spice. It’s great for kids and adults alike, and it makes a perfect snack for movie nights, holiday mornings, or anytime you want something comforting but simple.
🍴 Servings:
4 servings (1 cup per serving)
🧾 Ingredients
- 4 cups Cheerios cereal (plain, not flavored)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or honey, see variations)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
👨🍳 Directions
🔹 Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy but not browned.
🔹 Step 2: Add Flavorings
Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the sugar is mostly dissolved and you have a fragrant, cinnamon-sugar glaze.
🔹 Step 3: Add Cheerios
Add the Cheerios to the skillet. Stir constantly to coat the cereal evenly with the cinnamon-butter mixture.
🔹 Step 4: Toast the Cheerios
Continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the Cheerios are lightly toasted and smell amazing. They should be slightly crisp but not burnt.
🔹 Step 5: Cool & Serve
Remove from heat and let cool for 3–5 minutes. Serve warm for soft crunch or cool completely for extra crispiness.
🍯 Variations & Add-Ins
Try one of these flavor twists:
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Fruity Fix: Stir in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apples after removing from heat.
- Chocolate Swirl: Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder with the sugar and cinnamon.
- Honey-Sweetened: Replace sugar with 1 1/2 tablespoons honey, and drizzle it over Cheerios while hot.
- Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a deeper, more complex flavor.
🧊 Storage
- Let leftovers cool completely before storing.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat briefly in a skillet or microwave to restore crispiness.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use flavored Cheerios (like Honey Nut)?
Yes, but reduce the added sugar since they’re already sweetened.
2. Can I bake these instead of toasting in a skillet?
You can! Toss the Cheerios with melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, then spread on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 12–15 minutes, stirring halfway.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Cheerios are labeled gluten-free in many regions, but always check the package if you’re sensitive.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a large enough skillet or cook in batches to ensure even toasting.
5. How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
🌟 Pro Tips
- Stir continuously while toasting to avoid burning the sugar or cereal.
- Let the mixture cool slightly before serving—hot sugar can burn!
- For a party snack mix, combine cooled cinnamon Cheerios with pretzels, peanuts, or popcorn.
Would you like this as a printable recipe card, or adapted for vegan, low-sugar, or holiday-style (pumpkin spice) versions? Let me know and I’ll tailor it for you!
