Hot Buttered Cheerios (AKA Mini Donuts): A Quick and Deliciously Sweet Snack That Will Take You Back

This Hot Buttered Cheerios recipe is a fun, simple, and tasty treat that brings together the nostalgic flavor of mini donuts with the convenience of a favorite cereal. These crunchy, buttery Cheerios are transformed into a sweet snack with a coating of cinnamon and sugar that gives them that irresistible "mini doughnut" flavor. Whether you're looking for a quick snack to enjoy at home or something fun to serve at a party, these Hot Buttered Cheerios are sure to become a household favorite.

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The best part? This recipe takes just minutes to whip up! With only a few basic ingredients, you can turn plain Cheerios into a warm, crispy snack that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Why Cheerios Are Perfect for This Recipe

Cheerios are the ideal cereal to use in this recipe because their small size makes them easy to coat evenly with the buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture. They’re already crunchy, so toasting them lightly in butter enhances their texture and flavor even more. Cheerios were introduced in 1941 and have been a pantry staple ever since. By turning them into a treat, you can rediscover a childhood favorite with a new, delicious twist.

This recipe works well with regular Cheerios, but if you want to make it extra flavorful, try using Cinnamon Cheerios for an extra burst of cinnamon goodness. Their light and airy texture makes them perfect for snacking and ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

The Secret to Perfect Hot Buttered Cheerios

The key to making these Hot Buttered Cheerios is all in the toasting. Slowly toasting the cereal over low heat ensures that the Cheerios soak up all the buttery flavor without burning. Once they’re golden and warm, you toss them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, which sticks to the buttered surface, giving them that sweet, donut-like taste that everyone loves.

You can get creative with the recipe by adding a pinch of nutmeg for a slightly more complex flavor or a dash of sea salt to enhance the sweetness. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it based on your preferences!

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The History of Cereal Snacks and Their Popularity

Cereal snacks have been around for decades, as they are an easy and versatile base for all sorts of sweet treats. The combination of cereals with various sugary coatings, such as marshmallows or chocolate, has created iconic recipes like Rice Krispies Treats and Muddy Buddies. Hot Buttered Cheerios takes a similar concept, transforming a common breakfast item into an addictive snack that plays on the flavors of cinnamon and sugar, reminiscent of mini donuts.

The origin of Cheerios dates back to 1941 when General Mills launched the cereal as a healthier option. Over time, Cheerios became a favorite not just for breakfast, but for snacking as well. This recipe builds on that tradition, turning plain Cheerios into a delightful, sweet snack that you can enjoy any time of the day.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 190mg

Cooking Tips

Always toast the Cheerios over low heat to ensure even browning and avoid burning the butter. Stir frequently to make sure every piece is evenly coated with the melted butter and vanilla. If you like a bit more sweetness, increase the amount of cinnamon-sugar mixture by a tablespoon or two. For a more savory contrast, try adding a pinch of sea salt after tossing the Cheerios in the cinnamon sugar for a balance of flavors that enhances the sweetness of the snack.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Hot Buttered Cheerios fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crunchy and delicious for up to a week. If you prefer them warm, you can easily reheat them by spreading the Cheerios on a baking sheet and placing them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes, or quickly tossing them in a skillet over low heat until they regain their crispness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Cheerios after they’ve cooled down. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a fresh, crispy snack.

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Hot Buttered Cheerios (AKA Mini Donuts) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 cups Cheerios or Cinnamon Cheerios cereal
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over low heat. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
2. Add the Cheerios to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes, until they are toasted and golden.
3. Transfer the toasted cereal to a large mixing bowl.
4. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and ground cinnamon.
5. Toss the toasted Cheerios with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
6. Serve immediately for a warm, crispy snack, or store for later enjoyment.

These Hot Buttered Cheerios are a fun and delicious way to transform a simple cereal into something special. With a buttery, cinnamon-sugar coating, this snack will quickly become a favorite in your household!