If you’re on the hunt for a snack that’s quick, comforting, and wildly addictive, let me introduce you to the Hot Buttered Cheerios Doughnut Recipe. This crunchy, buttery treat takes your everyday Cheerios to a whole new level of deliciousness with a warm cinnamon-sugar glaze that clings to every nook and cranny. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence, all rolled into a simple, no-fuss recipe that you’ll be reaching for again and again. Whether you need a cozy morning pick-me-up or a delightful snack, this recipe promises a flavor-packed experience that feels both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hot Buttered Cheerios Doughnut Recipe is all about simple ingredients that pack a powerful punch. Each element lends something special—texture, warmth, sweetness, and buttery richness—coming together to deliver unforgettable flavor and comfort.
- 4 cups Cheerios (gluten-free if needed): The crunchy base that gives the doughnut its signature texture and heartiness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds a smooth, rich flavor that coats the Cheerios perfectly.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Brings just the right sweetness to balance the butter’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warms up the dish with a cozy, inviting spice.
How to Make Hot Buttered Cheerios Doughnut Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by gently melting the unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat. The key here is to melt it slowly, allowing the butter to become perfectly smooth and aromatic without browning. This golden, fragrant butter will be the glue that holds your doughnut together and provides that decadent, buttery flavor.
Step 2: Mix in Sugar and Cinnamon
Once the butter is melted, stir in the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. The sugar begins to dissolve into the warm butter, while the cinnamon infuses everything with its spicy warmth—this combo creates the irresistible coating that will soon transform the Cheerios.
Step 3: Combine Cheerios with Butter Mixture
Pour the Cheerios into a large mixing bowl, then drizzle the warm butter-sugar mixture over them. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of cereal is lovingly coated in that cinnamon-butter glaze. This step is what turns simple Cheerios into a doughnut-worthy treat.
Step 4: Shape the Doughnut
With clean hands, gather the coated Cheerios and carefully press them into doughnut shapes. To help them hold together, it’s best to press firmly but not too hard—you want the doughnut to be sturdy enough to hold its shape but still light and crunchy. If necessary, you can use a doughnut mold or shape them by hand on a piece of parchment paper.
Step 5: Serve Warm
For best results, enjoy these doughnuts while they’re still warm. The buttery coating will be perfectly melty, and the cinnamon aroma will be at its peak, making every bite heavenly. If you’d rather wait, you can always gently reheat them, but nothing beats that fresh, warm aroma straight from the pan.
How to Serve Hot Buttered Cheerios Doughnut Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra flair can elevate the Hot Buttered Cheerios Doughnut Recipe to something truly special. Consider sprinkling a dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a pretty and tasty finish. For a touch of indulgence, a drizzle of vanilla glaze or honey pairs beautifully.
Side Dishes
These doughnuts shine on their own, but pairing them with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries adds a refreshing balance to the buttery sweetness. A cup of hot coffee, chai, or even a cold glass of milk complements the flavors wonderfully, rounding out a snack or breakfast with cozy vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
How about stacking the Hot Buttered Cheerios doughnuts as a centerpiece for brunch? Or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist. You can also use smaller doughnut holes to create a fun, bite-sized snack platter—perfect for sharing with friends or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hot Buttered Cheerios doughnuts should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature to keep their crunch. Ideally, enjoy them within 1 to 2 days, as they’re best when fresh and crisp.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these doughnuts freeze very well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to one month without losing their delicious flavor.
Reheating
To bring frozen or day-old doughnuts back to life, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This gently warms them up and revives that fresh, melty buttered crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy instead of crispy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal instead of Cheerios?
You absolutely can! While Cheerios have the perfect size and crunch for this recipe, using other round or similarly sized cereals can also work. Just make sure to use ones that hold up well when coated in butter and sugar.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Cheerios, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for a safe, gluten-free treat that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Can I make these doughnuts vegan?
To make this Hot Buttered Cheerios Doughnut Recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Just make sure the cereal itself doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients.
How long does it take to make these doughnuts?
This recipe is wonderfully quick—about 5 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for when you want a fast, impressive snack with minimal effort.
What’s the best way to shape the doughnuts?
Using your hands to gently press the coated Cheerios into ring shapes works well, but you can also use a doughnut mold or cookie cutters for neater edges. Just be careful not to press too hard to keep them light and crunchy.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Hot Buttered Cheerios Doughnut Recipe—it’s a charming, nostalgic treat turned extraordinary by the warm cinnamon butter glaze. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or sneaking a few for yourself, this recipe brings joy in every bite. Give it a try today and discover just how delightful simple ingredients can become when combined with a little creativity and love.
Print
Hot Buttered Cheerios Doughnut Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (about 1/2 cup each)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a nostalgic and delicious snack with this Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios recipe. This quick and easy treat combines the buttery richness of melted unsalted butter with the sweet and warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar, coating crispy Cheerios for a delightful, doughnut-inspired twist. Perfect for a cozy snack or a fun breakfast, this recipe is simple to prepare in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 cups Cheerios (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter gently, making sure it doesn’t brown.
- Add Sugar and Cinnamon: Stir in 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, mixing well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and fragrant.
- Toss Cheerios: Remove the saucepan from heat and add 4 cups of Cheerios to the butter mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all the cereal evenly with the butter and cinnamon sugar glaze.
- Cool and Serve: Spread the coated Cheerios on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool slightly and allow the coating to set. Once cool, serve immediately for a crunchy, sweet snack resembling doughnut flavors.
Notes
- Use gluten-free Cheerios if you require a gluten-free snack.
- Adjust the cinnamon and sugar quantity to taste for a sweeter or spicier version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness.
- For added variety, sprinkle with a little sea salt after coating to balance sweetness.
