If you’re craving a snack that’s irresistibly buttery, sweet, and just filled with cinnamon warmth, then you have to try this Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of crisp Cheerios coated in luscious melted butter, vanilla, and a dusting of cinnamon sugar that turns simple cereal into a cozy treat. Whether you’re making a quick afternoon snack or an unexpected dessert, this recipe brings joy with every bite and is incredibly easy to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of the Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the rich creaminess of butter to the warm sparkle of cinnamon, every component lends something special.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, and its richness helps the sugar and cinnamon stick beautifully to the Cheerios.
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla: This tiny splash of vanilla enhances the buttery flavor and adds a subtle aromatic sweetness.
- 6 cups Cheerios: The crisp base that soaks up all the buttery cinnamon goodness without getting soggy.
- 1/3 cup white granulated sugar: Balances the butter with a hit of sweetness that caramelizes just slightly when toasted.
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon: Adds the warm, spicy kick that defines the flavor profile of the dish.
- 1 pinch of salt: A small pinch sharpens all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
How to Make Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mix
Start by combining the sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Give it a thorough stir so everything is evenly mixed. This step is key because you’ll sprinkle this mixture on at the end to coat the Cheerios in that classic cinnamon-sugar goodness.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Place the unsalted butter in a large skillet and melt it over medium heat. You want it fully melted but not browned—the goal is to gently infuse the Cheerios with buttery richness.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla
Once the butter has melted, add the vanilla extract and stir it into the melted butter. This small addition elevates the flavor, giving it a warm, inviting aroma you’ll notice right away.
Step 4: Coat the Cheerios
Toss in the Cheerios, stirring constantly so each piece is fully coated with that buttery vanilla mixture. The butter acts like glue holding all those flavors together while making every bite deliciously smooth.
Step 5: Toast the Cheerios
Turn up the heat to medium-high and keep stirring for about 4 to 5 minutes. This step toasts the Cheerios just enough to deepen their flavor and gives that slight crispy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the buttery coating.
Step 6: Add Cinnamon Sugar
Remove the skillet from heat, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the Cheerios. Toss everything together to coat the cereal evenly—this final touch brings the iconic cinnamon sweetness that makes this Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe so addictive.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the mixture cool for a few minutes to allow it to set just right. Serve as a snack, dessert base, or even alongside your morning coffee for a comforting start to the day.
How to Serve Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe
Garnishes
You can top your Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios with a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to add crunch and a nutty contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can also bring an extra layer of sweetness and shine.
Side Dishes
This sweet and buttery snack pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert or a bowl of fresh fruit for a breakfast treat. Try it alongside a warm cup of chai tea or cinnamon-spiced coffee to complement its flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these Cheerios in pretty glass jars or small bowls topped with cinnamon sticks for an inviting look at a party. You can also layer them with yogurt and fresh berries in a parfait for an impressive twist that showcases the Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe in a fun new way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crunchy and flavorful for up to 2 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness.
Freezing
Because the butter coating can become soft once thawed, freezing is not recommended for this recipe. It’s best to enjoy your Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios freshly made for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
If the Cheerios lose some crunch, you can gently reheat them in a dry skillet over low heat for a minute or two while stirring. This will revive some of the toastiness, but be careful not to burn the butter.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal instead of Cheerios?
Absolutely! While Cheerios are perfect for their shape and texture, you can experiment with other cereals like cornflakes or rice puffs. Just keep in mind that different cereals will toast and absorb butter differently.
Is this recipe very sweet?
The sweetness is balanced by the butter and cinnamon, making it more of a lightly sweetened treat rather than overly sugary. You can always adjust the sugar to your taste if you prefer it sweeter or milder.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can try substituting the unsalted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and use vanilla extract just the same. The flavor will shift slightly, but it still makes a delicious vegan-friendly snack.
How long does it take to make this snack?
This recipe is a quick fix, taking about 10 minutes in total—5 minutes to prep and 5 minutes to cook—making it perfect for those sudden cravings or last-minute guests.
Is this Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe safe for kids?
Yes! It’s a wholesome, kid-friendly snack that combines familiar flavors in an exciting way. Just be cautious with the butter amount if you’re watching dietary fat intake for young children.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe that makes it a go-to snack for cozy moments. It’s simple enough to whip up on a whim and magical enough to impress anyone who tries it. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot and enjoy that buttery cinnamon bliss—it might just become your new favorite treat!
Print
Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A warm, comforting snack, Hot Buttered Cheerios combines buttery richness with a cinnamon-sugar coating for a deliciously toasted treat perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Butter Mixture
- ½ cup unsalted butter (one stick or 8 Tablespoons)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 6 cups Cheerios
- 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 pinch of salt
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to evenly blend the spices and sugar, then set the mixture aside for later use.
- Melt Butter: Place the unsalted butter in a large skillet and heat it over medium heat until it is completely melted, ensuring an even base for the Cheerios coating.
- Add Vanilla: Pour in the vanilla extract to the melted butter and stir to combine, enhancing the buttery aroma and flavor.
- Coat Cheerios: Add the Cheerios to the skillet and toss them thoroughly in the melted butter and vanilla mixture until each piece is well coated.
- Toast Cheerios: Increase the heat to medium-high and continue stirring the Cheerios frequently for 4-5 minutes, allowing them to toast lightly and develop a warm, crisp texture.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the skillet from the heat, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the toasted Cheerios, and stir well to ensure an even coating.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the Hot Buttered Cheerios to cool slightly so the coating sets, then serve immediately or store for a delicious snack.
Notes
- Use unsalted butter to control saltiness; adjust salt quantity as needed.
- Stir continuously while toasting to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice with the cinnamon.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
- This recipe is perfect for parties or a cozy snack on cold days.
