Go Back
No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

The ultimate sweet treat for any occasion! These No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars are easy to prepare, deliciously satisfying, and perfect for both kids and adults. With their chewy texture and rich peanut butter flavor, they are a must-make for your next gathering!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 9 squares
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Frying Pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter Use Jif, Skippy, or similar; do not use natural or homemade peanut butter.
  • ½ cup light corn syrup Light colored, not lite.
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar Packed.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 3½ cups Special K cereal Corn Flakes may be substituted, or use about 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal.
  • 5 ounces marshmallows Half of one standard bag; I used large but mini are ideal.

Instructions
 

  • Line an 8-inch square pan with aluminum foil leaving overhang, spray with cooking spray; set aside.
  • In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 heaping cup peanut butter, corn syrup, sugars, and heat on high power for 1 minute to melt.
  • Stop to stir. Mixture will be on the granular side, this is okay.
  • Return bowl to microwave and heat for 1 more minute on high power.
  • Stir in the vanilla.
  • Stir in the cereal and marshmallows. The marshmallows will melt to some extent, but not fully.
  • Turn mixture out into prepared pan, packing it down somewhat firmly with a spatula, and smooth the top.
  • Cover pan with a sheet of foil (to prevent fridge smells), and place pan in fridge to set up for about 2 hours or until set, before lifting out with foil overhang, slicing, and serving.
  • Bars will keep airtight at room temperature for up to 1 week, in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Notes

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container for freshness.
  • Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to 6 months.
  • Variations: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to customize your bars.
  • Enjoy fresh: They taste best when fresh, but can be stored for later.
  • Serve chilled: They are best served chilled for the perfect texture.
Keyword dessert bars, Easy Cereal Bars, No Bake Peanut Butter Bars, Peanut Butter Cereal Bars