Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios

Name: Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 55 g granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon table salt; 115 g salted butter, sliced; 1.25 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 120 g Cheerios cereal

Author: Natalie Brooks

Published: November 2, 2025

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Introduction to Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up snacks. That’s why I’ve fallen head over heels for this recipe for Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios. It’s the perfect blend of buttery richness and warm cinnamon that brings comfort to any hectic day. No need for elaborate meal prep or endless cooking times—this delightful treat comes together in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re snacking solo or want to impress your loved ones with a sweet bite, you’re going to love this easy, satisfying recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios

You’ll be smitten with the simplicity of Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios. This snack marries taste and convenience, making it the perfect solution for your busy days. In under 20 minutes, you’ll satisfy cravings with a sweet and crunchy delight. Plus, the heavenly aroma of cinnamon and butter will fill your kitchen, bringing smiles to everyone at home. Trust me, this is one recipe you won’t forget!

Ingredients for Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create your Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios:

Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the warmth of the cinnamon. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
Ground Cinnamon: This spice steals the spotlight, bringing a cozy, aromatic essence. Feel free to experiment with different cinnamon blends for a unique twist.

Table Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and makes the sweetness pop! Don’t skip this step.
Salted Butter: The foundation of our recipe. The rich creaminess is essential for that dreamy flavor. If you prefer, you can use unsalted butter and add a bit more salt.

Pure Vanilla Extract: This adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor. Pot for pure extract rather than imitation for the best results.
Cheerios Cereal: The crunchy base that makes this snack fun and satisfying. You can use plain Cheerios or any flavor you love.

Remember, the specific quantities of each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for your easy printing!

How to Make Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios

Now, let’s dive into the delightful process of making your Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios. This playful treat comes together in just a few simple steps. I promise, it’ll be a recipe you’ll return to time and again. Ready? Let’s go!

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

Start by grabbing a small bowl. Combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and table salt. Use a whisk or a spoon to stir them together until they’re evenly mixed. The sweetness of the sugar and warmth of the cinnamon create a delightful aroma that signals good things are coming. Make sure the salt is distributed well; it elevates the flavors beautifully.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Next, it’s time for the buttery goodness! In a large nonstick skillet, set your heat to medium. Add your sliced salted butter and let it melt completely. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t brown too quickly. As soon as the butter is melted, whisk in the pure vanilla extract. You’ll love how that sweet scent wafts through the kitchen, promising tasty moments ahead!

Step 3: Toast the Cheerios

Now comes the fun part—adding the Cheerios! Pour the cereal into the skillet, and gently stir them into the buttery mixture. You’ll want to toast the Cheerios for about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep stirring continuously, so they don’t burn. The sound of toasting Cheerios will remind you that something special is happening. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden and fragrant.

Step 4: Coat the Cheerios

Once your Cheerios are toasted, it’s time to add the cinnamon sugar mixture. Sprinkle it evenly over the crispy cereal and toss everything together gently. Every piece should get coated in that sweet, spiced goodness. This step is essential, as it transforms ordinary cereal into a delightful snack, so take your time to ensure each bite is flavorful!

Step 5: Cool Before Serving

Finally, it’s crucial to let your Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios cool completely at room temperature. This cooling process helps the coating stick better and offers that perfect crunch. If you skip this step, you might end up with something sticky rather than delightfully crunchy. Once cooled, portion them into bowls or store them in an airtight container for later snacking. Easy, right?

Tips for Success

Use fresh spices for maximum flavor—old cinnamon can lose its potency.
Keep the heat on medium; high heat can burn the butter and Cheerios.
Adjust the sweetness to your liking by experimenting with less or more sugar.

For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the mixture.
Make a double batch and share with friends—a delicious surprise!

Equipment Needed

Large Nonstick Skillet: Essential for toasting—if you don’t have one, use a regular skillet with a little extra butter to prevent sticking.

Small Bowl: For mixing the cinnamon sugar—any bowl will do!
Spoon or Whisk: For thoroughly blending ingredients—your trusty wooden spoon works perfectly.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, for an extra crunch. They’ll complement the flavors beautifully.

Dried Fruit: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture and a hint of tartness. They’ll sweeten the deal even more!
Chocolate Twist: Drizzle some melted chocolate over the cooled Cheerios for a decadent touch. It’s an indulgent treat that will charm chocolate lovers.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out Cheerios for gluten-free cereal. Make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon sugar for a surprising spicy flavor. It’s an unexpected treat!

Serving Suggestions for Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios

Pair with a chilled glass of almond milk or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy snack.
Serve in fun bowls to engage the kids; they’ll love these whimsical touches!

For a heartier breakfast, top with sliced bananas or berries for a fruity twist.
Enjoy as a topping over yogurt for a satisfying crunch.

FAQs about Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios

Can I make Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios ahead of time?

While this snack tastes best fresh, you can prepare it in advance. Just store the cooled Cheerios in an airtight container. They should stay crunchy for a few days, although they may lose some of their fresh warmth.

Can I use other cereals besides Cheerios?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cereals. Rice cereal or any puffed cereal works well. Just keep in mind that the texture might change, and it may alter the cooking time slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios makes an excellent snack for kids. The flavors are approachable, and the crunchy texture is sure to delight even the pickiest eaters. Just keep an eye on younger kids when they’re eating, as it could be a bit crunchy.

How do I adjust the sweetness without losing flavor?

You can reduce the sugar a bit without compromising the overall taste. Try using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, adjusting to your sweetness preference. Just remember that liquid sweeteners may change the consistency slightly, so use them cautiously.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute vegan butter or coconut oil for the salted butter to keep this recipe dairy-free. You’ll still achieve that delicious flavor without missing a beat. Just ensure your Cheerios are also dairy-free!

Final Thoughts

Creating Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience wrapped in nostalgia and warmth. Every bite takes me back to my childhood, where simple flavors reigned supreme. It’s the perfect balance of buttery richness and sweet, spicy goodness, all while being quick and easy to whip up. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack or sharing with loved ones, these cheerios bring smiles with every crunch. So, gather your ingredients, let the enticing aroma fill your kitchen, and relish the joy that this simple treat brings to your busy life!