Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I adore how this simple mash-up elevates regular Cheerios into something indulgent—the butter gives richness, the warm milk softens the cereal just right, and a sprinkle of cinnamon adds cozy sweetness. It’s nostalgic, easy, and perfect when I crave something both warm and crunchy.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cheerios (your favorite format—original or whole grain)
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Butter (a pat or two, melted)
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Milk (dairy or plant-based, warmed)
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Ground cinnamon (to taste)
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Optional: a drizzle of honey or pinch of sugar for added sweetness
Directions
I melt butter in a small pan over low heat, then toss in a handful of Cheerios, stirring until each piece gets a glossy coating and becomes lightly toasted. I pour in warmed milk, enough to cover the Cheerios, and let them sit for a minute to soften slightly. Then I sprinkle cinnamon over the top, swirling gently to distribute the warmth and aroma. If I’m feeling indulgent, I add a drizzle of honey or a pinch of sugar to round out the coziness.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 1 serving—perfect for one cozy moment. It takes just 5 minutes or less from start to finish, making it a speedy yet satisfying pick-me-up.
Variations
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I sometimes swap Cheerios for oats or granola for a different texture.
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I’ll mix in a bit of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for more autumnal warmth.
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If I want it extra comforting, I stir in a spoonful of peanut butter after the milk goes in.
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For fruity contrast, I drop in a few sliced banana pieces just before serving.
Storage/reheating
This treat is meant to be enjoyed right away—hot and slightly softened. Because it’s so quick, I don’t try to store or reheat it: I just make a fresh batch when the craving hits.
FAQs
Can I use cold milk instead of warm?
You could, but I love the coziness that comes from warm milk—it makes the cereal soft and the butter melt into a comforting stream.
Can I use margarine or a butter substitute?
Absolutely—I’ve used a plant-based margarine and it still delivers that rich, toasty flavor with dairy-free ease.
Is this cereal healthy?
It leans more indulgent than a plain bowl of Cheerios, thanks to the butter and cinnamon—but it makes breakfast feel special, and I sometimes add fruit or nuts to boost nutrition.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes—I use vegan buttery spread and plant milk to keep it dairy-free without losing warmth or flavor.
What if I don’t have ground cinnamon?
You could use a dash of pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cardamom—anything warm and fragrant that brings that cozy vibe.
Conclusion
I’ve found that Hot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios turn an everyday cereal into something feel-good and comforting in just moments. With buttery toasts, silky milk, and spicy sweetness, it’s a little indulgence that brings warmth, nostalgia, and simple joy—perfect any time I want something quick that feels like a treat.
PrintHot Buttered Cinnamon Cheerios
Toasty Cheerios coated in buttery cinnamon-sugar for a quick and irresistible snack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack, Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
4 cups plain Cheerios cereal
¼ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
Melt butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until fully liquefied.
Add Cheerios: Pour Cheerios into the skillet and stir to coat evenly with butter.
Mix sugar & cinnamon: In a small bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt (if using).
Coat cereal: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the Cheerios and stir until well coated.
Toast: Continue cooking for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until Cheerios are lightly toasted and fragrant.
Serve: Enjoy warm as a snack or let cool for a crispy treat.
Notes
Extra flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for seasonal variation.
Make-ahead: Store cooled cereal in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Sweetener swap: Use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
Party mix idea: Combine cooled Cheerios with pretzels and nuts for a sweet-savory snack mix.
