If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic snack that’s buttery, cozy, and just a little bit magical, then you have to try Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios. This irresistible treat takes humble breakfast cereal and turns it into a crunchy, cinnamon-sugar-dusted delight reminiscent of classic mini donuts, all in less than half an hour. Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios are the answer to your next sweet craving — a little retro, a lot delicious, and an absolute crowd-pleaser whether you’re making a batch for the family or indulging in a treat yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe that just a handful of pantry staples can transform into something as delightful as Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios. Each ingredient adds its own punch: think richness from butter, warmth from cinnamon, and a sweet crunch that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Granulated sugar: The star of the cinnamon sugar coating that gives these Cheerios their “mini donut” magic.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy spice that pairs perfectly with the sugar and butter.
- Table salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and makes each flavor pop.
- Salted butter: Brings that unmistakable rich, savory flavor and helps everything stick to the cereal.
- Pure vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla creates that classic bakery aroma reminiscent of fresh donuts.
- Cheerios cereal: The trusty base for this recipe, turning simple O’s into golden, crunchy bites of joy.
How to Make Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios
Step 1: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
Start with a small bowl and stir together your granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and table salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures the coating will distribute evenly on every Cheerios piece, creating that classic mini donut crunch once you sprinkle it on later.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Add Vanilla
In a large nonstick skillet set over medium heat, gently melt your sliced salted butter. As soon as it’s melted and starting to smell dreamy, stir in the vanilla extract. This step is key, since the fragrant vanilla infuses the butter, setting the foundation for everything that’s to come.
Step 3: Toast the Cheerios
Pour the Cheerios into your skillet and start stirring. You’ll want to keep them moving for about three to five minutes, until they become golden, crispy, and toasty. This simple bit of skillet magic gives the cereal a lovely crunch and deepens the flavor so they taste even more like your favorite mini donuts.
Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Remove the skillet from the heat, then immediately sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture over the warm, buttered Cheerios. Give it all a good stir (tossing is fun too!) to make sure each piece is coated in sweet, cinnamony goodness. The sugar should cling to the melted butter and cover the cereal evenly, creating that iconic crunchy shell.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Spread the coated Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios onto a baking sheet or large plate and let them cool completely — this is how you lock in all that wonderful flavor and texture. Waiting isn’t easy, but it’s worth it for that perfect crunch in every bite!
How to Serve Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios
Garnishes
These little beauties are delightful on their own, but a dusting of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of white chocolate takes them right over the top. You can also toss in some colorful sprinkles for a festive twist, or add a pinch of extra cinnamon just before serving for an aromatic boost.
Side Dishes
Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios are a playful snack all by themselves, but they’re also fabulous alongside a bowl of fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or as a crunchy topping for yogurt. Pair with a mug of hot cocoa or your favorite coffee for the ultimate cozy treat experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios in cupcake liners for individual portions at parties, or package them up in cute jars or treat bags for a sweet homemade gift. Stash a little bowl next to the coffee pot for a morning pick-me-up, or use them to top muffins and pancakes for a surprising twist at brunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have any left, keep Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crunchy and delicious for about three days, though chances are good they’ll disappear much sooner!
Freezing
For longer-term storage, you can freeze them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Just let them cool completely first, and they’ll last for up to a month. When you’re ready, a few minutes thawing at room temperature brings all that crunch right back.
Reheating
If you like your Cheerios warm, give them a quick (and I mean quick!) spin in the microwave for about ten seconds, or toast them briefly on a baking sheet in a low oven. This will refresh the texture and enhance the buttery, cinnamon aroma — just don’t overdo it, or the sugar coating could melt.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal if I don’t have Cheerios?
Absolutely! While traditional Cheerios give that iconic crunch, other O-shaped cereals or even puffed rice work well, though keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary slightly from the classic Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios experience.
Can I make Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute vegan butter or coconut oil for the salted butter to make this treat dairy-free. Choose a plant-based butter with a flavor you love to keep the end result just as delicious.
How long does it take for the coated Cheerios to cool?
The cereal cools fairly quickly, usually within 10 to 15 minutes. Letting them cool completely helps the cinnamon sugar set, making for the signature crispy coating that sets Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios apart.
Can I double or halve the recipe easily?
Definitely! This recipe is super flexible. Just make sure not to overcrowd the pan if you double it, or toast the Cheerios in batches to ensure even buttery crispiness and perfect sugar coating for every piece.
Are Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios gluten-free?
Cheerios are often labeled gluten-free, but always check your box to be sure. If needed, feel free to use your favorite certified gluten-free O-shaped cereal to safely enjoy all the cinnamon-sugar fun.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something irresistible about Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios — the way they capture all the magic of a fresh mini donut in a crunchy, sweet handful is pure comfort. Whether you’re treating yourself or surprising a friend, I promise this quick snack will win everyone over. Don’t wait: grab a skillet, some Cheerios, and whip up this nostalgic masterpiece for your next craving!
Print
Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios are a quick, nostalgic snack made with buttery cereal and a warm cinnamon sugar coating. Ready in minutes using simple pantry ingredients!
Ingredients
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
Buttered Cheerios:
- 1/2 cup salted butter, sliced
- 1 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 cups Cheerios cereal
Instructions
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt to a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Buttered Cheerios: In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add Cheerios to the skillet, stirring constantly for 3 to 5 minutes until toasted. Remove from heat.
- Sprinkle the Cheerios with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Stir to coat. Allow to cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 335 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
