Name: Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon table salt; ½ cup salted butter, sliced; 1 ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 4 cups Cheerios cereal

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Introduction

Hot Buttered Cheerios offer a warm, sweet twist on a classic breakfast cereal. Coated in buttery cinnamon sugar, this quick snack or treat is perfect for cozy mornings or anytime you want a comforting crunch.

The image shows many small round cereal rings covered in a light layer of sugar crystals, giving them a sparkly texture. The rings are a warm golden-brown color with a slightly rough surface from the sugar. A wooden scoop is filled with the cereal and rests on top of the pile, lifting some rings to the front. The background has a soft focus but also shows more cereal rings scattered around, all on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon table salt
½ cup salted butter, sliced

1 ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4 cups Cheerios cereal

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and table salt. Stir until evenly mixed to create the cinnamon sugar coating.
Step 2: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced salted butter and allow it to melt completely. Once melted, stir in the pure vanilla extract to infuse the butter with flavor.
Step 3: Add the Cheerios cereal to the skillet with the melted butter and vanilla. Stir constantly for 3 to 5 minutes until the Cheerios become nicely toasted and lightly browned. Then remove the skillet from heat to prevent burning.

Step 4: Sprinkle the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture over the toasted Cheerios. Stir or toss thoroughly to evenly coat all the cereal pieces with the buttery cinnamon sugar.
Step 5: Let the coated Hot Buttered Cheerios cool completely in the skillet or on a baking sheet before serving. This helps the coating set and become crisp for the perfect warm snack.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, spread the coated Cheerios on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Substitute unsalted butter and add a pinch more salt if you prefer more control over saltiness.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar mix for a spicy twist.

Storage

Store leftover Hot Buttered Cheerios in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispness. If they soften, you can re-crisp them briefly in a warm oven before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a white bowl filled with many small, round cereal pieces shaped like rings. Each cereal piece is covered with a light layer of sugar crystals, giving them a shiny, grainy texture mixed with a golden brown color. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface, and the cereal fills the bowl to the top, creating a cozy and inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cereal instead of Cheerios?

Yes, you can use other toasted oat cereals or similar shapes that will toast evenly and hold the buttery cinnamon coating well.

Is this recipe suitable for a quick breakfast?

Absolutely! It takes about 10 minutes and adds a flavorful warm twist to your usual cereal routine.