Peanut Butter Cereal Bars: The Ultimate Gluten-Free Snack!
Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious gluten-free treat? These Peanut Butter Cereal Bars are your answer! Ready in minutes with just a few simple ingredients, they're perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even a guilt-free dessert.
Living gluten-free doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or convenience. These bars are a testament to that! They offer a satisfying crunch and a naturally sweet taste, all while being free of gluten, dairy, and refined sugars. This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation too. Feel free to customize it with your favorite gluten-free additions, such as chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of flaxseed for added nutrients.
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. It's a great way to use up leftover gluten-free cereal and transform it into something truly special. When choosing your cereal, opt for a plain "O" shaped variety or a neutral-flavored option like Chex. Always double-check the ingredients to ensure it's certified gluten-free, as ingredients can vary between brands.
Get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying and wholesome gluten-free snack that the whole family will love!
Instructions
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In a large saucepan, combine the peanut butter and honey.
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Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the peanut butter and honey are smooth and fully combined. This should take approximately 3 minutes.
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Add the gluten-free cereal to the saucepan. Use a rubber spatula to stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the peanut butter and honey mixture.
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Pour the coated cereal into a greased 8×8 inch pan. Use the back of the spatula to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, ensuring it is flat and compressed.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to set. For a quicker setting time, place the pan in the freezer.
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Once chilled and firm, cut the mixture into squares.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For the gluten-free cereal, ensure you are using a certified gluten-free "O" cereal. Many people with gluten sensitivities cannot tolerate regular Cheerios, so it’s important to choose a suitable alternative. Nature's Path Organic Whole O's Cereal is a great option and can be found at many local grocery stores or online retailers. Alternatively, you can use any other neutral-flavored gluten-free cereal, such as Chex.
Be Gluten Free: Peanut Butter Cereal Bars
These Peanut Butter Cereal Bars are a delightful treat that caters perfectly to a gluten-free lifestyle. Ready in minutes with just a handful of ingredients, they're ideal for a quick breakfast, satisfying snack, or even a guilt-free dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3 cups plain gluten free “O” cereal*
Nutrition Insights for a Gluten-Free Diet:
These cereal bars are not only delicious but also offer several nutritional benefits, especially for those avoiding gluten:
- Gluten-Free Grains: Using a gluten-free "O" cereal ensures that this treat is safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. These cereals often provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and B vitamins.
- Healthy Fats and Protein: Peanut butter is a great source of healthy fats and plant-based protein, contributing to satiety and sustained energy.
- Natural Sweetener: Honey offers a more natural alternative to refined sugars, providing antioxidants and a gentler impact on blood sugar levels.
Tips and Variations for Dietary Needs:
- Cereal Options: While we recommend gluten-free "O" cereal, you can also use other neutral-flavored gluten-free cereals like Chex. Ensure that any cereal you choose is certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
- Nut Butter Alternatives: For those with peanut allergies, sunflower seed butter (sun butter) or almond butter can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor profile.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of honey to suit your sweetness preference. You can also use other liquid sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Added Goodness: Boost the nutritional value by adding a tablespoon of ground flaxseed for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds are another great addition.
- Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle in some dairy-free chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a chocolatey twist.
- Coconut Flakes: Add shredded coconut for additional texture and healthy fats.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Enjoy these versatile Peanut Butter Cereal Bars as a tasty and convenient gluten-free treat!