These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cereal Bites are gluten-free, vegan, and made without refined sugar. A quick, wholesome snack that’s easy to make and irresistibly tasty.
A simple three-ingredient treat that feels good to serve. Made with pantry staples and your favorite toasted oat cereal, these peanut butter cereal bites work as an after-school snack, a quick breakfast option, or a simple dessert the whole family will enjoy.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Only three basic ingredients
- No-bake and fuss-free
- Ready with minimal prep time
- Great for snacks, lunches, or a light dessert
Ingredients and substitutions
Below are notes on the main ingredients. The full ingredient list and instructions are in the recipe card further down.
Peanut butter – Use natural, creamy peanut butter for the best texture and flavor. To make these peanut-free, substitute cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or almond butter; the taste will vary slightly.
Toasted oat cereal (Cheerios) – Plain gluten-free toasted oat cereal is ideal. It adds whole grains, fiber, and a pleasant crunch. Choose a certified gluten-free brand if you have celiac disease or a strong sensitivity.
Maple syrup – Real maple syrup acts as a natural binder and sweetener. If you do not need the recipe to be vegan, honey can be used instead.
Chocolate chips (optional) – If you want a chocolate drizzle, melt semi-sweet or dark vegan chocolate chips and drizzle over the bites after they set.
Gluten-free toasted oat cereal brands
The following brands are similar to Cheerios and are labeled gluten-free:
- Love Grown Power O’s
- Nature’s Path Whole O’s
- Seven Sundays Oat Protein Cereal
- Three Wishes Grain-Free Cereal
- Forager Project Grain-Free O’s
Most grocery stores and online shops carry a variety of gluten-free oat cereals. For those with celiac disease, always look for a certified gluten-free label.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the maple syrup and peanut butter, stirring occasionally until smooth and fully combined.
Step 2: Put the cereal in a medium bowl and pour the warm peanut butter-maple mixture over it. Stir gently until every piece of cereal is evenly coated.
Step 3: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the coated cereal into small mounds on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Chill the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least two hours to firm the bites. If you like, melt the chocolate chips and drizzle over the bites, then return them to the fridge until the chocolate sets.
Recipe tips
- The mixture will be slightly sticky; a cookie scoop or a spoon helps form uniform mounds.
- Chilling longer makes the bites firmer and less delicate.
- If you pack these in lunches, include an ice pack. At warm temperatures the peanut butter and chocolate may soften or melt.
How to store
Keep the cereal bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For best texture when taking them on the go, pack with a cold pack.
More gluten-free cereal treats
Raspberry Coconut Cereal Treats (Gluten-Free)-
Birthday Cake Rice Krispie Treats
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S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
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Chocolate Rice Crispy Treats
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📖 Recipe
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cereal Bites
Ingredients
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup natural peanut butter
- 2 cups Cheerios or other gluten-free oat cereal
Optional topping
- ¼ cup vegan chocolate chips
Instructions
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Place parchment paper on a large baking sheet and set aside.
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In a small saucepan over low heat, combine maple syrup and peanut butter. Stir occasionally until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
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Put the cereal into a medium bowl and pour the warm peanut butter mixture over it. Stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
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Scoop the coated cereal with a cookie scoop or tablespoon into small mounds on the prepared baking sheet.
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Chill the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least two hours, until the bites are set. If using chocolate, melt the chips and drizzle on top, then return to the fridge to harden.
Notes
When packed for a lunch, include a cold pack to prevent softening or melting.
Nutrition
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Calories: 106kcal
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Carbohydrates: 13 g
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Protein: 2 g
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Fat: 6 g
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