Homemade General Mills Fillows Breakfast Cereal Hershey Cookies and Cream Family Size Recipe: A Crunchy, Creamy, and Customizable Breakfast Treat

Category: Breakfast Cereal

Introduction

General Mills Fillows Breakfast Cereal Hershey Cookies and Cream is a beloved breakfast option that combines the iconic cookies and cream flavor with a crunchy cereal texture. Introduced in recent years, it quickly became a favorite among both kids and adults for its sweet, creamy taste and fun texture. The cereal features bite-sized cereal pieces coated in a cookies and cream-flavored seasoning, creating a delicious and satisfying breakfast experience.

However, store-bought cereals often come with added preservatives, high sugar content, and limited customization options. By making this cereal at home, you can enjoy a fresher, healthier, and more customizable version of your favorite breakfast treat. This recipe allows you to control the sugar content, use high-quality ingredients, and even add your own twists to the flavor. Plus, it’s a fun project that brings back the joy of homemade breakfast goodies!

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own cereal at home offers several advantages:

• Healthier Ingredients: Reduce sugar content and use whole grains for better nutrition.
• Customization: Tailor the flavor to your liking, whether you prefer it sweeter, creamier, or with a hint of spice.
• Cost-Effective: Homemade cereal can be more economical than buying family-sized boxes regularly.
• Fun and Creative: It’s a great kitchen project that can involve the whole family!

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I tried General Mills Fillows. It was a game-changer for me because it combined the comfort of a sweet cereal with the fun of cookies and cream. However, as someone who prefers healthier options, I wanted to recreate it at home using better ingredients. After several trials and errors, I finally nailed the recipe! Now, I get to enjoy my favorite cereal with less sugar and more control over what goes into it. It’s a win-win for taste and health.

Recipe Details

**Prep Time:20 minutes
**Cook Time:20 minutes
**Total Time:40 minutes
**Yield:6 cups (family size)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) whole wheat flour (optional for added fiber)
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
• 1 tsp (5g) baking soda
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar (or 1/3 cup honey/maple syrup for a healthier option)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk (or plant-based milk for a dairy-free version)
• 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract

Coating:

• 1/2 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder (optional for a deeper flavor)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk (or plant-based milk)
• 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt

Optional Add-Ins:

• Crushed cookies (chocolate sandwich cookies work best) for extra texture and flavor

Instructions

• **Preheat Oven:### Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

• **Prepare Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt).

  • In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar (or honey/maple syrup), milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.

• Roll Out Dough:

• Divide the dough into two equal portions for easier handling.

  • Roll out each portion on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
  • Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife. For a more authentic cereal texture, use a small round cutter or cut into small squares.

• Bake:

• Place the cereal pieces on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) of space between each piece.

  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even cooking.

• Cool:

• Allow the cereal pieces to cool completely on the baking sheets. This step is crucial to ensure crispiness.

• Prepare Coating:

• In a small saucepan, heat the powdered sugar, cocoa powder (if using), milk, vanilla extract, and salt over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and warm.

  • Alternatively, mix the coating ingredients in a bowl until well combined and smooth.

• Coat Cereal:

• Place the cooled cereal pieces in a large bowl.

  • Drizzle the coating mixture over the cereal and toss until the pieces are evenly coated. If using crushed cookies, sprinkle them over the cereal and toss gently to combine.

• Set Coating:

• Spread the coated cereal on a clean parchment-lined surface or a silicone mat. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to allow the coating to set.

• Store:

• Transfer the cereal to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar and reduce the amount in the coating.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the coating for a warm, spicy flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter or oil in the dough.

Pro Tips

• Even Cooking: To ensure the cereal pieces bake evenly, keep them uniform in size and shape.
• Crispiness: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheets, as this can prevent the cereal from crisping up properly.
• Freshness: For the best texture, consume the cereal within a week of making.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use different types of milk?
  Yes! Almond, oat, or any plant-based milk works perfectly for a dairy-free version.

• Why is my cereal soft or chewy?
  This could be due to underbaking or high humidity. Bake the cereal until it’s golden and crisp, and store it in an airtight container.

• Can I add other flavors?
  Absolutely! Try adding a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a drizzle of caramel for a unique twist.

• How do I make it last longer?
  Store the cereal in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.

• Can I make it gluten-free?
  Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Bowl: Enjoy with cold milk for a traditional breakfast experience.
• Toppings Bar: Add fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Snack On the Go: Portion the cereal into small containers for a quick snack.
• Yogurt Topping: Sprinkle over yogurt or oatmeal for a crunchy treat.

Conclusion

This homemade version of General Mills Fillows Breakfast Cereal Hershey Cookies and Cream is a delicious and healthier alternative to the store-bought version. With customizable ingredients and a fun, easy-to-follow process, you can enjoy your favorite cereal without compromise. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick breakfast solution or a health-conscious foodie wanting more control over your ingredients, this recipe delivers. So go ahead, give it a try, and start your day with a smile!