If the words “Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios” instantly make you smile, you’re not alone! This delightful treat blends the wholesome crunch of Cheerios with buttery, cinnamon-sugar magic, transforming a humble breakfast cereal into a crave-worthy snack that tastes just like a hot mini doughnut. With just a handful of everyday pantry staples and a skillet, you can whip up something so nostalgic and impossibly good, it’s practically guaranteed to vanish within minutes of hitting the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about recipes with short ingredient lists, and this one is no exception. Each simple staple brings a unique touch: from buttery richness and cozy spice to crunchy texture and sugary sparkle, making every bite of Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios absolutely irresistible.
- Cheerios (4 cups): Stick with plain Cheerios for a wonderfully neutral canvas that soaks up all the buttery, sugary flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup): Butter is key for that rich, indulgent taste; opt for unsalted so you can control the final flavor.
- Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Classic granulated sugar melts slightly on contact, giving each Cheerio a sweet, crunchy coating.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Just the right amount of cinnamon transforms everything into nostalgic doughnut territory.
How to Make Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Set a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Stir as it melts, letting it get just bubbly, filling your kitchen with the aroma of anticipation. Butter is the backbone of Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios, ensuring every crunchy O is coated in toasty flavor.
Step 2: Toast the Cheerios
Once the butter is melted, pour in the plain Cheerios. Toss and stir to coat them evenly – this step is a little therapeutic, watching the cereal glisten as it bathes in butter. Let them cook, stirring frequently, for about 5–7 minutes until they’re toasted and wonderfully golden. The transformation is visually subtle but you’ll sense when those familiar breakfast rings go from pale to perfectly crisp and ready.
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
While the Cheerios are toasting, whisk together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This duo is what sets Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios apart, recreating that iconic cinnamon-doughnut flavor with effortless homey charm.
Step 4: Coat and Toss
As soon as the Cheerios are golden and fragrant, remove the skillet from heat. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the warm cereal. Toss thoroughly while everything is still hot so the sugar mixture clings to every nook and cranny, creating an addictive, sweet crust that’s practically impossible to resist.
Step 5: Cool Slightly & Enjoy
Patience, just for a moment! Let the Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios cool for a few minutes so the sugar coating sets. They’re best eaten warm and full of cozy, crunch-filled joy, but keep an eye out – they tend to disappear quickly!
How to Serve Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios
Garnishes
You can certainly enjoy them straight out of the skillet, but for an extra treat, add a final dusting of powdered sugar for doughnut-shop vibes, or toss in a few mini chocolate chips right after coating with cinnamon sugar. A light drizzle of melted white chocolate is also a dreamy touch if you’re feeling creative!
Side Dishes
Pair these with a frosty glass of milk, a warm cup of coffee, or even a creamy vanilla milkshake for the ultimate snack break. They’re also a hit served in colorful bowls alongside fresh fruits or yogurt as part of a special breakfast or brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Pour into cute treat bags for a party favor, mound high in a big communal bowl for movie night, or even thread single Cheerios onto skewers for a playful “mini doughnut kebab.” For a party, serve them in paper cones lined with parchment – everyone will feel like a kid at a carnival!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow end up with extras, keep your Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, though odds are good they’ll be gone well before then.
Freezing
While these snacks are best fresh, you can freeze them if absolutely necessary. Spread the Cheerios in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to a month, though the texture softens slightly.
Reheating
To bring back that just-made warmth, pop a serving in the microwave for about 15 seconds, or re-crisp in a low oven (300°F for 5 minutes). This revives their signature crunch and brings the butter and cinnamon aroma right back to life!
FAQs
Can I use flavored Cheerios instead of plain?
Absolutely! Honey Nut or Multigrain Cheerios would add extra layers of flavor, though I recommend sticking with plain if you want that classic mini doughnut taste for your Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios.
How can I make these dairy-free or vegan?
You can substitute the butter with a good-quality plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and the flavor will still be deliciously indulgent and the texture just right.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and use an extra-large skillet, or make two batches back to back. These go fast at parties and potlucks, so bigger batches are always a good idea.
Is it possible to add other spices or flavors?
Of course! Try a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice with your cinnamon sugar, or stir in a splash of vanilla or maple extract with the butter for even deeper flavor. Personalizing your Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios is half the fun!
Are Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios gluten-free?
Regular Cheerios are made from oats, but always check the packaging for gluten-free certification if allergies are a concern. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to enjoy the simple, joyful nostalgia of Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios! It’s the kind of easy recipe that turns everyday moments into something memorable. Whip up a batch, share it with friends and family, and let the warm buttery cinnamon aroma fill your kitchen – pure happiness in every bite!
Print
Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe
- Total Time: 9 minutes
- Yield: 4 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, these warm and toasty Cheerios make for a perfect quick and easy treat.
Ingredients
Cheerios:
- 4 cups plain Cheerios cereal
Butter Mixture:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Toasting: Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5–7 minutes until the cereal is toasted and golden.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon.
- Coat Cheerios: Toss to coat evenly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Add the Cheerios and stir to coat evenly.
Remove the skillet from heat and immediately sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the Cheerios.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the melted butter before adding the cereal.
- These are best served warm but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
