Description
Hey friends! Let’s be real: sometimes your sweet tooth hits hard, and all you want is something warm, cinnamony, and crunchy that tastes like a mini donut—but without the fuss of frying or waiting for dough to rise. That’s why I’m so excited to share this kitchen magic trick: Mini Cinnamon Sugar Cheerios “Donuts.”
Ingredients
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4 cups Cheerios (original works best)
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¼ cup salted butter (or unsalted + pinch of salt)
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¼ tsp pure vanilla extract
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter, swirling occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (prevents burning and preserves flavor).
Return the skillet to medium heat and add Cheerios. Gently toss for ~3 minutes until the cereal is warm and coated with butter. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Remove from heat. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the hot Cheerios and toss well for 1 minute until evenly coated.
Spread Cheerios on a plate or baking sheet to cool for 5 minutes. This sets the coating and makes them crisp. Enjoy as a snack, on ice cream, or with yogurt.
Notes
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Use a large skillet—even for a single batch, so the Cheerios have room to toss.
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Add sugar off the heat to prevent a sticky syrup.
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Make ahead? Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days; crispness may reduce slightly.
Nutrition
- Calories: 140 Cal Per Serving
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g