10 Delicious and Easy Cereal-Based Dessert Recipes

If you’re looking to add a bit of crunch and sweetness to your dessert lineup, this collection of 10 cereal-based dessert recipes offers a great selection to choose from. These treats are easy to pull together and bring a comforting touch of nostalgia with every bite.

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The assortment features a range of styles, from no-bake bars and clusters to creamy parfaits and crispy cookies. Whether you want a quick snack, a family-friendly dessert, or a portable treat for on-the-go moments, these recipes cover all bases with flavors that everyone can enjoy. Many include simple ingredients you likely have on hand, making them reliable options for busy days.

Each recipe shares practical advantages like minimal preparation time, straightforward techniques, and limited cleanup. Combining familiar cereals with sweet binders creates desserts that are both satisfying and easy to customize, making this list an excellent resource for anytime indulgences without the fuss.

1. Classic Rice Krispies Treats

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Classic Rice Krispies Treats are a simple, no-bake dessert that bring back memories of childhood. These treats combine the chewy sweetness of melted marshmallows with the crisp crunch of crispy rice cereal, creating an enjoyable texture contrast that’s hard to resist.

They are quick to prepare and require just a handful of ingredients, making them an ideal choice for busy days when you want a sweet snack without spending much time in the kitchen. Plus, you can customize these treats with mix-ins or toppings for a personal touch.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe balances simplicity and taste, making it a go-to for a quick sweet bite the whole family can enjoy.

• Convenience – Requires minimal ingredients and no baking, perfect for quick preparation.
• Texture – Combines soft, gooey marshmallows with the crispy crunch of cereal for a satisfying bite.
• Customizable – Easily adaptable with additions like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
• Kid-friendly – Sweet and straightforward, appealing to children and adults alike.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients can help meet dietary needs or offer different flavor profiles while keeping the basic concept intact.

• Use vegan marshmallows – Swap regular marshmallows for vegan ones to make the recipe plant-based.
• Gluten-free cereal – Choose a gluten-free crispy rice cereal if gluten is a concern.
• Add nut butters – Replace some butter with almond or peanut butter for a nutty flavor boost and extra richness.
• Use coconut oil – Substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative that adds subtle coconut aroma.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Crispy rice cereal
• 4 cups Mini marshmallows
• 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat until it is completely melted.
2. Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously until they are fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using.
3. Immediately pour the crispy rice cereal into the marshmallow mixture. Gently fold the cereal and marshmallow together until the cereal is evenly coated.
4. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper to avoid sticking.
5. Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

These treats keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, making them excellent for make-ahead snacks or treats to bring along to gatherings.

2. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cornflake Clusters

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If you’re looking for a snack that brings together a familiar and comforting combination, these chocolate peanut butter cornflake clusters are an excellent choice. They combine crunchy cornflakes with creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, offering a blend of sweet and salty that’s especially popular with kids and adults alike.

The clusters come together quickly with just a few ingredients, making them a great option for a last-minute treat or something to pack in lunchboxes. The texture is satisfyingly crispy with bursts of smooth, gooey chocolate and peanut butter in every bite.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe balances simple ingredients to create a snack that’s both flavorful and convenient for busy days. It combines familiar tastes in an easy, no-bake format that requires minimal cleanup.

• Convenience – Comes together quickly without baking, ideal for busy schedules.
• Flavor Balance – Combines salty peanut butter with sweet chocolate for a crowd-pleasing taste.
• Texture – Crispy cornflakes coated with creamy peanut butter and chocolate create a delightful crunch.
• Appeal – Kid-friendly and perfect for lunchboxes, snacks, or casual gatherings.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients can help tailor this recipe to your preferences or accommodate dietary restrictions without losing the classic flavors.

• Peanut butter – Use almond or cashew butter for a different nutty taste or to suit allergies.
• Chocolate – Choose dark chocolate or dairy-free chocolate chips for a less sweet or vegan version.
• Cornflakes – Substitute with gluten-free cornflakes or puffed rice for a textural variation.
• Sweetener – Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cornflakes
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup honey or light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prepare for assembling the clusters.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the peanut butter, chocolate chips, honey (or corn syrup), and vanilla extract. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and gently fold in the cornflakes, stirring carefully to coat them evenly without crushing the flakes.
4. Spoon clusters of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds. Press lightly to hold their shape but avoid flattening them too much.
5. Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or place them in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes to set faster. Once firm, transfer to an airtight container for storage.

You can enjoy these clusters as a quick snack or pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet and crunchy treat that’s sure to please.

3. Cheerios Chocolate Bark with Nuts and Dried Fruit

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This Cheerios Chocolate Bark combines the nutty crunch of cereal with rich dark chocolate, creating a snack that’s both satisfying and straightforward to make. Dotted with nuts and dried fruit, it offers a balanced mix of textures—from the smoothness of melted chocolate to the chewiness of fruit and crunch of nuts.

It’s a treat you can prepare quickly for yourself or the family, whether as an after-school snack or a casual party offering. You don’t need any special tools, and once set, it’s easy to break into shareable pieces.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe brings together convenience, flavor, and texture in one simple preparation. It’s a great way to enjoy a treat that feels indulgent without complicated steps or ingredients.

• Convenience – Requires minimal prep and sets quickly in the fridge or at room temperature.
• Flavor balance – The bittersweet chocolate complements the mild Cheerios and naturally sweet dried fruit.
• Texture – Offers a satisfying crunch from nuts and cereal alongside chewy and smooth elements.
• Appeal – Kid-friendly and suitable for casual snacking or gifting in small packages.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients here can help accommodate allergies or change the flavor if you want to mix things up. The recipe stays just as enjoyable when adjusted thoughtfully.

• Nuts – Use almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds instead of mixed nuts to suit your preference or nut allergies.
• Chocolate – Try milk chocolate or white chocolate for a sweeter version, or use vegan chocolate for a dairy-free option.
• Cereal – Substitute Cheerios with other toasted oat cereals or bran flakes for a similar crunch and flavor profile.
• Dried Fruit – Use raisins, dried cherries, or chopped dried apricots based on availability or taste preference.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
• 3 cups Cheerios cereal
• 1/2 cup mixed nuts roughly chopped (such as walnuts, almonds, pecans)
• 1/2 cup dried fruit chopped (such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots)
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil or neutral oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set this aside.
2. Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir until smooth and glossy.
3. Quickly fold the Cheerios, mixed nuts, and dried fruit into the melted chocolate, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
4. Spread the mixture in an even layer onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing down gently to compact it slightly.
5. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is firm. Break the bark into pieces and store in an airtight container.

This chocolate bark keeps well at room temperature for a day or refrigerated for up to two weeks, making it an easy option to have on hand.

4. No-Bake Granola Bars with Honey and Almonds

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These no-bake granola bars bring together a satisfying blend of crunchy almonds, chewy granola, and the natural sweetness of honey. They offer a wholesome snack that’s quick to prepare without heating up the oven.

The bars hold together nicely for easy handling, making them ideal for busy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or packed lunches. Their simple, clean ingredients provide a nutritious boost that tastes good any time of day.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe delivers a straightforward, tasty snack that fits into a healthy lifestyle while saving time. Everyone can enjoy these bars for their balanced flavor and convenient portability.

• Convenience – No baking means fast preparation and less clean-up.
• Flavor balance – The sweet honey pairs well with the nutty almonds and toasted granola.
• Texture – A firm but chewy texture makes these bars easy to eat on the go.
• Family-friendly – Mild flavors and natural ingredients appeal to all ages.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients lets you customize these bars to fit what you have on hand or your dietary preferences, all without changing the basic character of the recipe.

• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly alternative.
• Replace almonds with walnuts or pecans to vary the nutty flavor and texture.
• Choose gluten-free granola to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to introduce a different sweetness and chew.

Ingredients

• 2 cups granola cereal
• 3/4 cup raw almonds
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granola and chopped almonds, stirring until evenly mixed.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey and peanut butter together, stirring until smooth and blended. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
3. Pour the warm honey mixture over the granola and almonds. Stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
4. Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture to the pan and press firmly and evenly into the bottom.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the mixture is firm and set. Remove from the pan by lifting the parchment paper, then cut into bars to serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

5. Frosted Flakes Marshmallow Squares

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These Frosted Flakes Marshmallow Squares put a sweet twist on the classic marshmallow cereal bar by using Frosted Flakes instead of plain cereal. They bring an extra layer of sweetness and crunch that will appeal to kids and adults alike.

The bars come together quickly with just a handful of ingredients and no baking required, making them an easy treat to prepare after a busy day or for sharing at a gathering. The crispy texture paired with gooey marshmallow makes every bite satisfying.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe combines nostalgic flavors with a simple prep, delivering a quick, satisfying treat anyone can make.

• Convenience – Requires minimal ingredients and no oven time, ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Flavor balance – Sweet marshmallows complement the sugary, crisp Frosted Flakes perfectly.
• Texture – Combines gooey softness with crispy crunch for an enjoyable mouthfeel.
• Family-friendly – A favorite for kids’ parties, lunchboxes, or any casual occasion.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients here can help adjust sweetness levels or accommodate dietary needs without losing the treat’s essence.

• Replace Frosted Flakes with plain cornflakes or Rice Krispies for a less sugary option.
• Use vegan marshmallows to make this recipe suitable for plant-based diets.
• Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative to keep it dairy-free.
• Add a handful of mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Frosted Flakes cereal
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan

Instructions

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
3. Stir in vanilla extract if using, then immediately add the Frosted Flakes cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow mixture, coating all flakes evenly without crushing.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press lightly and evenly with a buttered spatula or wax paper to avoid sticking.
5. Let the squares cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into bars.

Serve and enjoy this sweet, crispy treat whenever you want a simple dessert or snack.

6. Cinnamon Toast Crunch Dessert Cups with Cream Cheese Mousse

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This Cinnamon Toast Crunch Dessert Cups recipe brings together the warm, spiced flavors of cinnamon cereal with a light, creamy mousse. The layers create a delightful mix of crunchy texture and smooth sweetness that’s refreshing yet familiar. These dessert cups are easy to assemble and make for charming individual servings that work well at gatherings or as a casual treat.

The cream cheese mousse adds a tangy balance to the sweet cereal, making each bite interesting without being overwhelming. You’ll appreciate how straightforward the components come together with minimal fuss, giving you a delicious dessert in just a few simple steps.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe offers a smart way to turn a breakfast classic into a sophisticated dessert that anyone can enjoy. The combination of spiced crunch and creamy mousse makes for an appealing texture and flavor contrast.

• Convenience – No-bake layers mean minimal prep and quick assembly.
• Flavor balance – Smooth cream cheese mousse pairs perfectly with cinnamon-spiced cereal.
• Texture – Crunchy cereal topping contrasts with soft, airy mousse underneath.
• Appeal – Individually portioned cups create an elegant presentation ideal for parties or casual treats.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping a few ingredients can help tailor this dessert to different tastes or dietary needs while keeping the core flavors intact. Consider these substitutions if you’re looking to alter texture or accommodate allergies.

• Dairy-free option – Use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream instead of regular cream cheese and heavy cream.
• Cereal substitute – Try a gluten-free cinnamon cereal or granola to keep the crunch but suit dietary restrictions.
• Sweetener alternatives – Swap powdered sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a natural sweetener variation.
• Flavor twist – Add a touch of vanilla bean paste or almond extract to the mousse for an extra layer of aroma.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Crush 1 cup of the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal roughly and divide it evenly among dessert cups as the bottom layer. Set aside the remaining 1/2 cup for topping.
2. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using a mixer.
3. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to the cream cheese and mix well.
4. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Spoon or pipe the mousse over the cereal base in each cup. Sprinkle with the remaining cereal on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving chilled.

7. Cornflake Crusted Chocolate Chip Cookies

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These chocolate chip cookies get a delightful twist with a crunchy cornflake coating. The crispiness on the outside contrasts with the chewy, chocolate-studded inside for a satisfying bite every time. It’s an easy way to add texture and a subtle, toasty cereal flavor without changing the familiar cookie taste you enjoy.

Making them doesn’t take long and the process feels straightforward enough for any busy home cook looking to bake something a little different but still comforting. The cornflakes hold the cookie shape well while giving a fun, unexpected crunch.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe adds a new layer of texture and interest to classic chocolate chip cookies while staying easy to prepare. The crunchy cornflake coating delivers an enjoyable contrast to soft cookies inside.

• Convenience – Simple mixing steps and no special equipment make these cookies beginner-friendly.
• Texture – The cornflake crust creates a crisp exterior that’s a refreshing change from typical cookies.
• Flavor balance – Sweet chocolate chips are complemented by cereal’s light toastiness without overpowering.
• Appeal – A playful treat for kids and adults alike, great for snacks or dessert plates.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adjusting ingredients can help you tweak texture or cater to dietary preferences without losing the recipe’s charm. Here are some substitutions to keep it just right for your needs.

• Cornflakes – Use gluten-free cornflakes to make the cookies safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Butter – Try coconut oil for a dairy-free version that still crisps nicely.
• Chocolate chips – Swap for vegan or sugar-free chocolate chips depending on your diet.
• Flour – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in cookies.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups cornflakes, crushed (lightly crushed, not powdered)
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
3. Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt separately, then slowly add to wet ingredients. Fold in chocolate chips.
4. Roll dough balls in crushed cornflakes to coat and place on baking sheets.
5. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool for 5 minutes on sheets, then transfer to wire racks.

Enjoy these crunchy, chewy cookies fresh or store in an airtight container for up to one week.

8. Bran Flake and Date No-Bake Cookies

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These no-bake cookies offer a simple way to enjoy a fiber-rich treat without turning on the oven. The combination of bran flakes and dates gives a nice natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch, all tied together with peanut butter and honey.

They come together quickly with minimal ingredients and clean-up, making them a great snack to prepare for busy days or to share with the family. The texture is chewy yet crisp, plus they provide lasting energy thanks to the whole grains and dried fruit.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe brings together nutritious ingredients in a way that’s easy to prepare and convenient for everyday snacking. The flavors and textures balance out well to keep things interesting and enjoyable.

• Convenience – No baking required, ready in minutes with simple stirring and shaping.
• Flavor balance – Natural sweetness from dates and honey pairs smoothly with nutty peanut butter.
• Texture – Crunchy bran flakes complement the chewy dried fruit and creamy binder.
• Appeal – A wholesome, kid-friendly snack that works well for health-conscious families.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adjusting ingredients in this recipe can tailor it to different dietary preferences or taste preferences without losing its essence. Here are some swaps to consider.

• Bran flakes – Replace with crushed high-fiber cereal or rolled oats for variety in texture and fiber content.
• Peanut butter – Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free or different flavor options.
• Dates – Substitute with chopped figs or raisins for a similar chewy natural sweetness.
• Honey – Swap with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it vegan-friendly.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups bran flakes
• 3/4 cup finely chopped dates
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Melt peanut butter and honey over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and add vanilla and salt.
2. Combine bran flakes and dates in a bowl.
3. Pour warm peanut butter mixture over dry ingredients and fold gently to coat.
4. Shape into small rounds and place on parchment-lined tray.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge.

9. Rice Cereal and Coconut Macaroons

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This recipe combines chewy coconut macaroons with crispy rice cereal for a delightful contrast in texture. These treats bring together the natural sweetness and tropical aroma of coconut with the light crunch of rice cereal, making each bite both satisfying and interesting.

They’re straightforward to prepare and make a great option for a quick snack or a casual dessert. You’ll find these macaroons enjoyable to make and share with family or guests without too much fuss.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe balances chewy and crunchy textures with simple ingredients and minimal preparation time.

• Convenience – Requires few ingredients and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
• Texture contrast – The crispy rice cereal adds an appealing crunch to the chewy coconut base.
• Flavor balance – Sweet coconut pairs well with a subtle hint of vanilla and the toasted edges of baking.
• Appeal – These macaroons have a homey feel while being versatile enough for casual or party settings.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping a few ingredients can accommodate dietary preferences or available pantry items without losing the essence of these macaroons.

• Rice cereal – Use gluten-free rice cereal to make these suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Sweetener – Replace regular sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a more natural, less refined option.
• Egg substitute – Use a flax or chia egg to create a vegan-friendly version while maintaining binding.
• Desiccated coconut – Try shredded unsweetened coconut if you prefer a coarser texture.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup crispy rice cereal
• 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix shredded coconut, rice cereal, condensed milk, vanilla, and salt in a bowl.
3. Beat egg whites to soft peaks and fold into coconut mixture carefully.
4. Scoop mixture by tablespoon onto baking sheet, space 1 inch apart.
5. Bake 15-18 minutes until golden on edges. Cool on sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.

Store in airtight container at room temperature for several days.

10. Oatmeal and Cereal Energy Bites

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Oatmeal and cereal energy bites are a handy snack that brings together wholesome ingredients in one small, satisfying package. Combining the chewy oats with crunchy cereal and the rich creaminess of nut butter, these bites offer a great mix of textures and flavors.

They’re no-bake and come together quickly, making them ideal for a busy day when you need a boost to keep going. Plus, they store well, so you can prepare a batch ahead and have a nutritious snack ready whenever hunger strikes.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because it’s simple, tasty, and suited for any time you need a quick bite with lasting energy. Oatmeal and Cereal Energy Bites balance good nutrition and easy prep for busy individuals.

• Convenience – No baking required, ready in minutes, and perfect for meal prep.
• Texture – A pleasant contrast between chewy oats and crunchy cereals adds enjoyable variety.
• Flavor balance – The nut butter provides a creamy richness that complements the mild cereal and oats.
• Appeal – Great for all ages and easy to customize with your favorite additions.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adjusting ingredients can help fit dietary needs or taste preferences without changing what makes these bites so reliable and enjoyable.

• Nut butter swap – Use sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free alternative.
• Cereal choice – Replace the cereal with gluten-free flakes or puffed rice to suit gluten sensitivities.
• Sweetener option – Swap honey for maple syrup or agave for a vegan-friendly version.
• Add-ins – Mix in dried fruits, chocolate chips, or seeds for different flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup assorted breakfast cereal (e.g., corn flakes or rice puffs)
• 1/2 cup nut butter
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed or chia seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Combine oats, cereal, and flaxseed or chia seeds in a large bowl.
2. Warm nut butter and honey in microwave for about 20 seconds; stir in vanilla and salt.
3. Pour nut butter mixture over dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
4. Shape into bite-sized balls and place on parchment-lined tray.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Store leftovers in airtight container in the fridge.