Homemade Cheerios Cinnamon Oat Crunch Breakfast Cereal Recipe: Crunchy, Cinnamon, and Made with Love

Category: Breakfast Cereal

Introduction

Cheerios, a beloved breakfast staple, has been a favorite for generations with its wholesome, whole-grain goodness. The Cinnamon Oat Crunch variety offers a delightful twist, combining the classic Cheerios O's with crunchy oat clusters and a warm cinnamon spice. While store-bought options are convenient, making it at home allows for customization, reduced sugar content, and the satisfaction of creating something nutritious and delicious. This recipe captures the essence of Cheerios Cinnamon Oat Crunch, offering a healthier, tastier alternative that can be tailored to your preferences.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your cereal at home provides control over ingredients, allowing for healthier choices like less sugar and more fiber. It's also cost-effective and customizable, letting you adjust flavors to suit your taste buds.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the joy of discovering I could make Cheerios at home. It was a game-changer for my family, as we could enjoy a healthier, more flavorful breakfast. The process is rewarding, and the result is a cereal that feels homemade with love.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:25 minutes
• **Total Time:45 minutes
• **Yield:4 cups (approx. 1 week's supply)

Ingredients

Cheerios Base:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup oat flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup water

Oat Clusters:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp melted butter or oil
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

• Prepare Cheerios Dough: In a large bowl, mix oats, oat flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add honey or maple syrup and water, stirring until a dough forms.

• Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Use a circular cookie cutter or a glass to cut O shapes. Gather scraps, re-roll, and cut more O's.

• Bake Cheerios: Place O's on a baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly toasted. Allow to cool and harden.

• Make Oat Clusters: In a small bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add melted butter or oil, stirring until crumbly. Form into small clusters and bake on the second baking sheet for 10-12 minutes until crispy.

• Combine: Once cool, mix Cheerios O's with oat clusters and enjoy.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats.
• Vegan: Opt for maple syrup over honey.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice.

Pro Tips

• Even Baking: Rotate baking sheets halfway through for uniform crispiness.
• Avoid Crowding: Ensure O's aren't overcrowded to prevent sogginess.
• Custom Flavor: Adjust cinnamon or add vanilla for different flavors.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Customization: Adjust cinnamon or add nuts/seeds.
• Crunchiness: Bake longer for crunchier texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Bowl: Enjoy with milk and fresh fruit.
• Yogurt Topping: Sprinkle over Greek yogurt for added crunch.
• Snack Mix: Add to homemade trail mix for a sweet and salty mix.

Conclusion

This homemade Cheerios Cinnamon Oat Crunch offers a healthier, customizable breakfast option that's as delicious as it is nutritious. Take pride in creating a breakfast that's made with love and tailored to your family's taste. Share your creations and enjoy the warmth of a homemade meal.