Short Description
These Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios are a delightful and addictive snack that tastes just like mini donuts! Crispy Cheerios are toasted in butter and vanilla, then coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet and satisfying treat. Perfect for parties, snacking, or a fun breakfast alternative.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon table salt
- ½ cup salted butter, sliced
- 1¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 cups Cheerios cereal
Preparation:
Step 1: Add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt to a small bowl and stir until well combined. This creates the cinnamon-sugar coating for the Cheerios.
Step 2: In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Ensure the skillet is large enough to hold all the Cheerios in a single layer for even toasting.
Step 3: Once the butter is fully melted, stir in the vanilla extract. This infuses the butter with a rich vanilla flavor that complements the cinnamon and sugar.
Step 4: Add the Cheerios to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 3 to 5 minutes or until the Cheerios are nicely toasted. Continuous stirring prevents burning and ensures even toasting. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Sprinkle the toasted Cheerios with the cinnamon-sugar mixture and stir, or toss, to completely coat the Cheerios. Make sure every Cheerio is covered in the sweet coating.
Step 6: Allow the coated cereal to cool completely before serving. This is crucial for achieving maximum crunchiness.
Why you’ll love this recipe
These Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios are incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients, making them a perfect last-minute snack. The combination of warm spices, sweet sugar, and buttery flavor creates an irresistible treat that both kids and adults will love. Plus, they’re a great way to elevate a simple box of Cheerios into something special!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a snack for parties or gatherings.
- Enjoy as a fun and different breakfast option.
- Pack in lunchboxes for a sweet treat.
- Sprinkle over yogurt or ice cream for added flavor and crunch.
- Offer as a homemade gift in decorative jars or bags.
Tips:
- Use plain Cheerios for the best results; flavored Cheerios may toast too quickly and become overly sweet.
- Stir the Cheerios frequently while toasting to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Cool the coated cereal completely before serving to maintain its crunchy texture.
- Experiment with additional seasonings like nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Make a double batch—they disappear quickly at parties!
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 150 calories per serving (¼ of the total recipe)
- Protein: Approximately 2 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 150mg per serving
Conclusion
Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios are a fun, easy, and delicious snack that brings the taste of mini donuts to your fingertips. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and watch these Cheerios disappear in no time!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use flavored Cheerios for this recipe?
A: While you can use flavored Cheerios, plain Cheerios are recommended. Flavored varieties tend to toast faster and may become overly sweet when coated with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Q2: How do I prevent the Cheerios from burning while toasting?
A: To prevent burning, stir the Cheerios constantly while they are toasting in the skillet. This ensures even cooking and prevents any one area from overheating.
Q3: What’s the best way to store these Cheerios to keep them crunchy?
A: Store the cooled Cheerios in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating them, as the moisture can make them lose their crunch.
Q4: Can I add other spices to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a unique twist.
Q5: How long do these Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios stay fresh?
A: These Cheerios are best enjoyed within 3 days of making them. Store them properly in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness. If they soften slightly, you can re-crisp them in a dry skillet for a minute or two.
