Vegan Peanut Butter Cheerio Balls
DriftRecipes
A nostalgic, plant-based treat made with simple ingredients like Cheerios, peanut butter, and maple syrup. Perfect for snacking, meal prep, or satisfying your sweet tooth!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Snack, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 20 balls
Calories 120 kcal
- 4 cups Plain Cheerios Check label for vegan variety
- 1 cup Natural peanut butter Drippy kind recommended
- 1/3 cup Pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Coconut oil
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp Sea salt
- Optional Add-ins:
- Amount Unit Name Notes
- 1/2 cup Vegan mini chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp Ground flaxseed
- 1 tbsp Chia seeds
- 1/4 cup Crushed freeze-dried strawberries
Prep Phase:
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Measure Cheerios into a large bowl.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
Creating the Binding Mixture:
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil.
Stir constantly until just melted and smooth (about 3-4 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.
Combining and Forming:
Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the Cheerios.
Fold gently with a spatula until evenly coated.
Let cool for 5 minutes if adding chocolate chips.
Using slightly damp hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Place on the prepared baking sheet.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
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Pro Tips:
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Don’t overheat the peanut butter mixture.
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Let the mixture cool slightly before rolling to prevent crushing the Cheerios.
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Wet your hands between every few balls to prevent sticking.
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Avoid compressing too tightly to maintain the perfect texture.
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Storage:
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
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Freeze for up to 3 months.
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Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Variations:
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Swap maple syrup for agave nectar.
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Use almond or sunflower butter for allergies.
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Add protein powder for a post-workout snack.
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Drizzle with melted chocolate for special occasions.
Perfect Pairings
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Serve with plant-based milk.
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Crumble over vegan ice cream.
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Pack in lunch boxes (they stay firm for hours).
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Pair with fresh fruit for balance.
Keyword Healthy Snack, No-Bake Recipe, Peanut Butter Cereal Balls, Vegan Peanut Butter Cheerio Balls, Vegan Treat