No-bake cereal bars are a sweet and practical snack that has gained popularity in various regions of Latin America and the world for their easy preparation and delicious flavor. Although recipes vary, the idea of combining cereals with sweet ingredients and peanut butter to create a compact and energizing snack comes from the United States and has been adapted in countries like Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina.
In Mexico, they are often called "energy cereal bars," in Colombia they are known as "oat and peanut butter bars," and in Argentina they are simply called "cereal bars." Over time, these bars have become a popular option for quick snacks, especially for children and active people, due to their nutritious content and the ease with which they can be prepared without the need for an oven.
How to prepare No-bake cereal bars
To begin, lightly grease a 33 x 23 cm pan to make it easier to remove the bars once they are ready.
In a large saucepan, combine the light corn syrup with the sugar, bringing the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking.
Cook until the sugar is completely dissolved, then remove the saucepan from the heat.
Add the peanut butter and stir until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
Incorporate the toasted oat cereal, like Cheerios, and mix well so it is coated with the peanut butter and syrup mixture.
Immediately press the mixture into the previously greased pan, making sure it is well compacted.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring constantly to prevent them from burning.
Spread the chocolate evenly over the bars already pressed into the pan.
Refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes or let cool completely at room temperature until the chocolate hardens.
Finally, cut into bars of the desired size and enjoy this delicious snack that requires no baking.
