Introducing the delightful Poppin’ Cereal Bars, a recipe that will surely become a staple in your snack arsenal! Whether you’re in need of a quick treat for the kids, a satisfying pick-me-up during your midday slump, or a scrumptious addition to your party spread, these bars have got you covered. Bursting with flavor and crunch, they’re a symphony of mini marshmallows, buttery goodness, and an array of irresistible ingredients. Let’s dive into the culinary adventure and discover how to whip up these mouthwatering delights!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 2 tablespoons margarine
- 1 cup popcorn
- 1 cup cereal (choose your favorite!)
- 1 cup pretzels
- 1/4 cup M&Ms (plus more for sprinkling)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Mix: Begin by combining the popcorn, cereal, pretzels, and M&Ms in a large mixing bowl. This medley of ingredients will form the heart and soul of our Poppin’ Cereal Bars, providing a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.
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Melt the Marshmallows: In a microwave-safe bowl, place the mini marshmallows and margarine. Pop it into the microwave and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until the marshmallows and margarine have melted together into a smooth, gooey concoction. This step is where the magic truly happens, as the marshmallows transform into a luscious, sticky binder that will hold our bars together in perfect harmony.
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Combine and Fold: Once the marshmallow mixture is velvety smooth, pour it over the cereal mixture in the large bowl. With a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the marshmallow goodness into the dry ingredients until everything is evenly coated. Be sure to work quickly but carefully, as the marshmallow mixture can start to set as it cools.
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Spread and Sprinkle: Grease an 11×7 inch baking pan and transfer the mixture into it. Using the back of a spoon or your fingers, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, ensuring that it reaches all corners and edges. For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle additional M&Ms over the top of the mixture, pressing them gently into the surface.
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Chill and Cut: Place the pan of Poppin’ Cereal Bars into the refrigerator and allow them to chill for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. Once set, remove the pan from the refrigerator and use a sharp knife to cut the mixture into bars of your desired size. Whether you prefer bite-sized morsels or hearty squares, these bars are sure to satisfy your snack cravings with every delicious bite.
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Serve and Enjoy: Arrange your freshly cut Poppin’ Cereal Bars on a platter or plate, and get ready to indulge in a burst of flavor and crunch with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them as a midday snack, packing them in lunchboxes for the kids, or serving them up at your next gathering, these bars are sure to be a hit with everyone lucky enough to taste them.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 184.3
- Fat Content: 6.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 2.4g
- Cholesterol Content: 1.9mg
- Sodium Content: 89.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 31.4g
- Fiber Content: 0.9g
- Sugar Content: 21.5g
- Protein Content: 1.7g
With their irresistible combination of flavors and textures, these Poppin’ Cereal Bars are sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. Whether you’re whipping them up for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious treat, these bars are a quick and easy option that never fails to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, fire up the microwave, and get ready to enjoy the sweet, crunchy goodness of these delightful bars. Happy snacking!
