Berries and Cream Cereal Bars

Name: Berries and Cream Cereal Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup butter; 10 oz mini marshmallows; 11.1 oz box of Cheerios™ Cereal Very Berry; 1.2 oz package of freeze-dried strawberries; 12 oz bag of white chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil; Nonstick cooking spray

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

February 6, 2026

Updated:

February 6, 2026

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the flavors of fresh strawberries and creamy white chocolate, then you’ll love these Berries and Cream Cereal Bars. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a sweet snack at home, these bars offer a crunchy texture complemented by real berries. They are not only easy to make but also pack a punch of flavor that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: These bars can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of Very Berry Cheerios™ and freeze-dried strawberries creates an irresistible taste.
Versatile Treat: Great as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast on the go!
Fun for Kids: Involve your little ones in the kitchen; they’ll love helping to mix and dip!
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite dried fruits or add nuts for extra crunch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Berries and Cream Cereal Bars, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick cooking spray
Large pot
Microwave-safe bowl
9×13-inch pan
Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking, ensuring easy removal of the bars from the pan.
Large pot: Allows for easy melting of marshmallows without spillage.
Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for melting chocolate evenly without burning.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup butter
– 10 oz mini marshmallows
– 1 box (11.1 oz) Cheerios™ Cereal Very Berry
– 1 package (1.2 oz) freeze-dried strawberries
– 1 bag (12 oz) white chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil, melted
– Nonstick cooking spray

How to Make Berries and Cream Cereal Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Spray a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray to ensure your cereal bars release easily once set.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add in the mini marshmallows, stirring until they are just melted.

Step 3: Mix in Cheerios and Berries

Remove the pot from heat and fold in the Cheerios™ Cereal Very Berry and freeze-dried strawberries. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Press Mixture into Pan

Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press it down firmly. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 5: Cut Into Bars

Once cooled, cut into 16 equal bars using a sharp knife.

Step 6: Melt White Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips along with either melted butter or coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.

Step 7: Dip Bars in Chocolate

Dip each bar into the melted chocolate coating half of it generously. Place chocolate-side up on parchment paper to cool until the chocolate sets completely.

Enjoy your delicious Berries and Cream Cereal Bars as a delightful treat at any occasion!

How to Serve Berries and Cream Cereal Bars

These Berries and Cream Cereal Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or simply enjoying them at home, here are some great serving suggestions.

For Breakfast

Pair with Yogurt: Serve bars alongside a bowl of yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
Add Fresh Berries: Top with fresh strawberries or blueberries for an extra fruity flavor.

As a Snack

With Milk: Enjoy the bars with a glass of milk as a quick snack.
Nut Butter Dip: Try dipping them in almond or peanut butter for added richness.

For Dessert

Ice Cream Topping: Crumble bars over ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance the chocolate flavor by drizzling melted dark chocolate on top.

How to Perfect Berries and Cream Cereal Bars

To make your Berries and Cream Cereal Bars even tastier, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh berries and quality white chocolate for better flavor.
Press Firmly: Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan so that bars hold their shape when cut.
Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Don’t hesitate to add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
Store Properly: Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Berries and Cream Cereal Bars

Berries and Cream Cereal Bars can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance.
Smoothies: Blend your favorite fruits with yogurt for a refreshing drink alongside the bars.
Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a satisfying parfait experience.
Cheese Platter: Pair with soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese for a savory contrast.
Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts offers protein and crunch that pairs well with sweet bars.
Herbal Tea: Serve with chamomile or mint tea for a soothing beverage option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Berries and Cream Cereal Bars can be fun, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common errors to avoid.

Not using enough butter: This can lead to bars that crumble easily. Ensure you measure your butter accurately for a perfect texture.
Overheating the marshmallows: If you heat them too long, they may become too sticky and hard to work with. Stir just until melted and remove from heat promptly.
Skipping the nonstick spray: Neglecting this step may result in bars sticking to the pan. Always spray your pan generously before pressing in the mixture.
Not letting the bars cool completely: Cutting into bars that are still warm can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool fully before slicing.
Using low-quality chocolate chips: The chocolate coating enhances flavor, so using a good quality white chocolate is essential. Invest in a brand you enjoy for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Berries and Cream Cereal Bars in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Berries and Cream Cereal Bars

Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Berries and Cream Cereal Bars

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat each bar for 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate for quick warming.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing the bars inside until warmed, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Berries and Cream Cereal Bars more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding vanilla extract or mixing in different freeze-dried fruits like raspberries or blueberries.

Can I use regular Cheerios instead of Very Berry Cheerios?

Yes, you can substitute with regular Cheerios if you prefer. However, you may lose some berry flavor, so consider adding extra dried fruit.

What is the best way to store Berries and Cream Cereal Bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

How long do these cereal bars last?

Berries and Cream Cereal Bars will last about one week in the refrigerator or up to three months if frozen properly.

Can I customize my Berries and Cream Cereal Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or different types of chocolate for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Berries and Cream Cereal Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect snack or dessert that can be customized based on your preferences. Try making these delightful bars today and enjoy their sweet crunchiness any time!