Special K Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Special K Bars are a no-bake dessert bar made with crunchy cereal, a sweet and chewy peanut butter mixture, and a rich chocolate-butterscotch topping. These bars are perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or as a quick treat at home. With their irresistible combination of textures and flavors, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Special K cereal
light corn syrup
granulated sugar
creamy peanut butter
semi-sweet chocolate chips
butterscotch chips

directions

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the corn syrup and sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil.

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter until smooth.

Fold in the Special K cereal and mix until well-coated.

Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish using a spatula or wax paper.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.

Pour the melted topping over the cereal layer and spread evenly.

Allow the bars to cool at room temperature or refrigerate until set.

Cut into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 bars.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 30-60 minutes
Total time: 40-70 minutes

Variations

Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Top with a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.
Swap Special K with Rice Krispies or Cornflakes for a different crunch.
Add mini marshmallows for a chewy twist.
Use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store Special K Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
They can also be refrigerated for up to 10 days for a firmer texture.
Freeze for up to 2 months, separating layers with parchment paper.
No reheating needed—just bring to room temperature before serving if chilled or frozen.

FAQs

Can I use a different cereal?

Yes, Rice Krispies, Cornflakes, or Cheerios work well as substitutes.

Why did my topping get hard?

Overheating the chocolate-butterscotch mixture can cause it to harden too much. Melt gently and stir often.

Can I make these nut-free?

Use sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative.

Do I have to use butterscotch chips?

They add flavor, but you can substitute with more chocolate chips or peanut butter chips.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger pan or prepare two batches.

Why are my bars too soft?

Ensure you bring the sugar mixture to a full boil before removing from heat to help them set properly.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cereal and check labels on all other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Are they kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the sweet, crunchy texture.

Do they travel well?

Yes, just be sure they stay cool to prevent the topping from melting.

Can I add mix-ins?

Chopped nuts, coconut, or even crushed pretzels make great additions.

Conclusion

Special K Bars are the perfect mix of crunchy, sweet, and satisfying, all without needing to turn on the oven. Their simplicity and delicious flavor make them a go-to treat for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or just to satisfy a craving, these bars are sure to impress.

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