If you love snacks that combine childhood memories with a cozy, buttery twist, you are absolutely going to fall for the Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe. This treat brings together toasted Cheerios coated in a warm, cinnamon-sugar butter glaze that tastes like a hug in every bite. Not only is it super quick and easy to make, but it’s also perfect for when you want something nostalgic, comforting, and a little bit indulgent all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to getting that perfect balance of buttery, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced flavor in this Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe. Each element plays a key role, from the creamy butter to the cinnamon punch that coats every single O.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the buttery richness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides warm spice that’s essential for that mini donut vibe.
- ¼ teaspoon table salt: Enhances all the other flavors, making every bite pop.
- ½ cup salted butter sliced: Melts perfectly to toast the cereal and carry the cinnamon sugar coating.
- 1¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Brings a subtle depth and roundness to the flavor profile.
- 4 cups Cheerios cereal: The crunchy base that toasts up beautifully and soaks up the buttery goodness.
How to Make Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Blend
To start your Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Stir well until evenly mixed. This cinnamon sugar blend is what transforms simple Cheerios into a sweet and spicy snack sensation.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Add Vanilla
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt the sliced salted butter. Once the butter is fully melted and glistening, stir in the vanilla extract. This fragrant vanilla-infused butter is the key to that luscious, rich flavor that will coat your Cheerios.
Step 3: Toast the Cheerios
Add the Cheerios to the skillet with the melted butter and vanilla. Stir constantly for about 3 to 5 minutes, making sure each O gets toasted evenly. You’ll notice a nutty aroma and a slight golden hue—this means your snack is getting close to perfection.
Step 4: Coat with the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
Remove the skillet from heat and immediately sprinkle the toasted Cheerios with the cinnamon sugar blend. Toss or stir well to make sure every piece is generously coated with that irresistible cinnamon-sugar butter glaze.
Step 5: Let Cool and Set
Spread the coated Cheerios on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and allow them to cool completely. This resting time lets the coating firm up just enough to give you that perfect crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How to Serve Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe
Garnishes
Although perfect on their own, you can elevate your Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios by adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a delicate snowy finish or a light dusting of extra cinnamon for spice lovers. These simple touches make the snack even more inviting for guests or family.
Side Dishes
This sweet treat pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate, especially on chilly days. For a more substantial snack time, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a smooth yogurt parfait to balance richness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe in individual glass jars or decorative bowls for a charming presentation. Adding small wooden scoops or spoons makes it easy and fun to snack on, turning it into a perfect party favor or a thoughtful homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though unlikely!), store your Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crunchy and flavorful for up to 3 days. Avoid the fridge as moisture can soften the coating.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled Cheerios in a sealed bag or container. When sealed properly, they can last up to a month. Just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing to preserve that delightful texture.
Reheating
If the snack loses its crunch, revive your Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios by warming them gently in a low oven (about 250°F) for 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, and they’ll taste freshly toasted again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal for this recipe?
While Cheerios work best for their size and texture, you can experiment with similar oat cereals that hold up well when toasted. Just be mindful that the flavor and coating adhesion might slightly change.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the salted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. The flavor will be a bit different, but it still creates a lovely buttery coating perfect for this recipe.
How long does the Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe take to prepare?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 25 minutes including prep, cooking, and cooling time—making it a super quick yet incredibly satisfying snack.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips can add interesting textures and flavors. Toss them in after coating the Cheerios to preserve their crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! It’s a fun, kid-friendly snack that’s not only tasty but also easy to get the little ones involved in making, enhancing their love for cooking and trying new treats.
Final Thoughts
There is something so deeply comforting about the Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe, a snack that feels like a little celebration for your taste buds. Whether you’re whipping it up for a spontaneous treat, a cozy afternoon boost, or sharing with loved ones, it’s a surefire way to brighten your day. Give it a try and experience that perfect blend of buttery, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced joy that only this recipe can deliver!
Print
Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (1 cup each)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios are a nostalgic and comforting snack featuring buttery Cheerios coated in a warm cinnamon sugar mixture. This quick and easy treat is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy dessert or anytime indulgence using simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon table salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup salted butter, sliced
- 1¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Main Ingredient
- 4 cups Cheerios cereal
Instructions
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and table salt. Stir well to blend all ingredients uniformly for the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Melt Butter and Add Vanilla: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced salted butter and allow it to fully melt. Once melted, stir in the pure vanilla extract to infuse the butter with rich flavor.
- Toast the Cheerios: Add the Cheerios cereal to the skillet with the melted butter and vanilla. Stir constantly for 3 to 5 minutes until the Cheerios are toasted and warmed through, releasing a nutty aroma. Then, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the toasted Cheerios in the skillet. Stir or toss the cereal well to completely coat each piece with the cinnamon sugar for a sweet and spiced finish.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the coated Cheerios to cool completely in the skillet or spread out on a baking sheet before serving. This resting time lets the coating set perfectly and ensures the snack is not too warm to enjoy.
Notes
- Use salted butter for best flavor, but unsalted butter with a pinch of extra salt can be substituted.
- Be sure to stir constantly while toasting to prevent the cereal from burning.
- The coated Cheerios can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
- You can adjust the cinnamon level to taste for a spicier or milder coating.
