Sweet, crunchy, and impossible to put down, Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios are the kind of snack that gives you instant nostalgia with every bite. Imagine the warm, melt-in-your-mouth flavor of old-fashioned cinnamon sugar doughnuts, but transformed into a light, crispy treat that’s ready in minutes. This recipe brings together a handful of everyday pantry staples for a snack that’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or a little pick-me-up at any hour. Once you try these, you’ll wonder why you ever reached for anything else!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios is in its simplicity—each ingredient has a role to play in creating that classic doughnut vibe. Don’t skip or swap these staples if you want that authentic flavor and irresistible crunch!
- Cheerios cereal (4 cups): The backbone of the snack, their wholesome crunch is the perfect base for the sweet, buttery coating.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Melts into every nook and cranny, turning each Cheerio into a rich, golden morsel. Go for unsalted so the sweetness can really shine.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Lightly coats each piece with a delicate sweetness—just like the best cinnamon doughnuts.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and an unmistakable bakery aroma that makes this snack feel extra special.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and makes all the flavors pop—don’t skip this tiny but mighty addition!
How to Make Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by setting a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Give it a moment to gently melt and sizzle. The aroma of butter melting always signals something delicious is about to happen! Swirl it around so the pan is evenly coated.
Step 2: Toast the Cheerios
As soon as your butter is fully melted, pour in the Cheerios. Stir well to make sure every piece is coated. Keep moving them around for 3 to 4 minutes—they should become slightly golden and toasty, but not burnt. This quick toast is what gives Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios their irresistible crunch!
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
While the Cheerios are toasting, grab a small bowl and combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and that pinch of salt. Mixing these together ahead of time ensures an even, classic flavor with every handful.
Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Once the Cheerios are warm and fragrant, sprinkle your prepared cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Stir quickly but gently—every O should get a generous dusting! Keep stirring for another minute, letting the sugar melt into the hot butter for that unmistakable cinnamon doughnut taste.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Take the skillet off the heat and let your Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios cool for just a couple of minutes. They’ll crisp up as they sit, making them even more munchable. Serve them warm for maximum cozy factor or at room temperature for on-the-go snacking.
How to Serve Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios
Garnishes
Take your Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios up a notch with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar just before serving for added sparkle. For a grown-up twist, try dusting with powdered sugar or a fineness of grated nutmeg. If you want to really surprise your guests, a drizzle of melted white chocolate after cooling adds an elegant touch!
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet, cinnamony bites with a cold glass of milk or a cozy mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate comfort snack. For a brunch treat, serve alongside tangy berry compote or fresh fruit so the flavors can play off each other.
Creative Ways to Present
Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios are a true showstopper when served in mini cupcake liners for parties, or packed into cute mason jars as homemade edible gifts. For a playful movie night, scoop them into paper cones just like you’d get at a fair. The possibilities are endless—you can even offer a “DIY” topping bar!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios fresh and crunchy, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days—if you can resist snacking on them, that is!
Freezing
While these are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Place cooled Cheerios in a freezer-safe bag, squeeze out as much air as possible, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temp and give them a minute in the oven for extra crunch.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-pan taste, spread leftover Cheerios on a baking sheet and reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. They’ll crisp right up and taste just like you made them new.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of Cheerios?
You sure can, but keep in mind that the classic Cheerio shape holds the butter and cinnamon sugar coating beautifully. Other round oat cereals or even plain cornflakes will work in a pinch, but you’ll get the best texture and nostalgic flavor by sticking with Cheerios.
Are Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios gluten-free?
Most regular Cheerios are labeled gluten-free, but always check the packaging if this is important for you. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy snack to adapt for sensitive eaters.
Can I make Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan buttery sticks or coconut oil. The flavor will be slightly different, but still super tasty and completely vegan-friendly.
How do I keep the Cheerios from getting soggy?
The key is not to overdo the butter—just enough to coat but not soak the cereal. Letting them cool slightly before storing helps them crisp back up as well. Always use an airtight container for best results.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Definitely! Just use a larger skillet or make the Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios in two batches so everything gets evenly coated and toasted. This snack disappears fast, so making extra is always a smart move.
Final Thoughts
Once you try these Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios, you’ll see why they’re such a beloved treat. They’re quick, easy, and bursting with cozy cinnamon sugar flavor that brings a smile every time. Grab your skillet and treat yourself—you’re only minutes away from your new favorite snack!
Print
Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios are a delightful twist on the classic cereal snack, coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture for a crunchy and flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Cheerios:
- 4 cups plain Cheerios cereal
Butter Mixture:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Cheerios: Add the Cheerios to the skillet and stir until coated. Cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Prepare Sugar Mix: In a small bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Coat Cheerios: Sprinkle the sugar mixture over warm Cheerios, stirring well to coat evenly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from heat, let cool slightly, and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- These Cheerios taste like mini cinnamon sugar doughnuts with a crunchy texture.
- For variety, try using pumpkin pie spice or drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled Cheerios.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2/3 cup
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
