Gooey Apple Jack Cereal Bars Recipe
Introduction
These Gooey Apple Jack Cereal Bars are a fun and delicious treat that combine crispy cereal with melted marshmallows for a perfect chewy texture. Easy to make and great for snacks or lunchboxes, they offer a nostalgic twist on classic cereal bars.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons salted butter (add 1/4 teaspoon salt if using unsalted)
- 10.5 oz mini marshmallows (fresh works best)
- 5 cups Apple Jacks cereal
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are melted and smooth. Remove the pan from heat.
- Step 2: Stir in the Apple Jacks cereal, mixing until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Step 3: Press the mixture into an 8-inch pan lined with parchment paper or greased. Use a buttered spatula or wax paper to press the mixture evenly and firmly. Let it cool completely.
- Step 4: Once cooled, cut into 8 bars and serve.
- Alternative microwave method: Place butter and marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir the mixture until smooth, then mix in the cereal. Press into the pan and allow to cool before cutting.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the melted marshmallow mixture before stirring in the cereal.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Warm slightly before serving if you prefer a softer texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of Apple Jacks?
Yes, you can substitute with other cereals like Fruity Pebbles, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, or any cereal you prefer. Just keep the quantity the same for best results.
How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Line your pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter to make removing the bars easier and to prevent sticking.
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Gooey Apple Jack Cereal Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 bars 1x
Description
These Gooey Apple Jack Cereal Bars are a delightful and easy-to-make treat combining the nostalgic flavors of Apple Jacks cereal with melted marshmallows and butter, creating a chewy and sweet snack perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons salted butter (add 1/4 teaspoon salt if using unsalted)
- 10.5 oz mini marshmallows (fresh works best)
- 5 cups Apple Jacks cereal
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove the pan from heat to prevent burning.
- Mix in Cereal: Immediately add the Apple Jacks cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly until the cereal is evenly coated with the gooey mixture.
- Press into Pan: Pour the coated cereal mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 8-inch square pan. Using a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper, press the mixture evenly and firmly into the pan to ensure compact bars.
- Cool the Bars: Allow the mixture to cool completely, which helps it set and become easier to cut without crumbling.
- Cut and Serve: Once cooled, cut the set mixture into 8 bars. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
- Microwave Method (Optional): In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and marshmallows. Microwave on HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes to prevent burning. Stir until smooth, add the cereal, mix well, press into the pan, and let cool before slicing.
Notes
- Fresh marshmallows melt better and produce a smoother texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the melted marshmallow mixture.
- Use a buttered spatula or wax paper to press the mixture evenly without sticking.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- You can substitute Apple Jacks with a similar sweet, fruity cereal if desired.
- Adding 1/4 teaspoon salt is recommended if using unsalted butter to balance the sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Apple Jacks bars, cereal bars, marshmallow bars, quick snack, kid-friendly dessert
