Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peanut Butter Honey Joy Bars?
Peanut Butter Honey Joy Bars are a chewy, crunchy treat made by combining peanut butter, mini marshmallows, butter, and Honey Nut Cheerios cereal.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, these bars are entirely no-bake; the mixture is melted in the microwave and set at room temperature.
How many ingredients do I need for these bars?
You only need four ingredients: real butter, mini marshmallows, peanut butter, and Honey Nut Cheerios.
What type of cereal is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses 5 cups of Honey Nut Cheerios toasted oat cereal.
Can I use regular Cheerios instead of Honey Nut?
Yes, you can use regular Cheerios, though the flavor profile will be less sweet and nutty compared to the original recipe.
How much peanut butter is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of peanut butter.
What size pan should I use for these bars?
A 13x9 inch baking pan is the recommended size for this recipe.
How long do I need to microwave the mixture?
The butter, marshmallows, and peanut butter should be microwaved on high for 2 minutes.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 12 generous bars.
How many calories are in one Peanut Butter Honey Joy Bar?
Each bar contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the fat content per bar?
Each serving contains about 7.5 grams of fat.
How much protein is in each bar?
There are 3.33 grams of protein per bar.
How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Grease the 13x9 inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter before adding the mixture.
How long do the bars take to set?
Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they are completely set.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer extra texture in your bars.
Should I store these in the refrigerator?
They can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
How much butter is used?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of real butter.
What size package of marshmallows is needed?
You will need 1 package of mini marshmallows, which is approximately 6 cups.
Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter can be used as a 1:1 substitute for peanut butter.
Are these bars suitable for a lunch box?
Yes, they are sturdy and hold up well, making them a great lunch box treat.
Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
You can use large marshmallows, but they may take longer to melt; mini marshmallows are recommended for even melting.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
Each bar contains 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Do I need to stir the mixture while microwaving?
The instructions recommend microwaving for 2 minutes first and then stirring until the mixture is smooth.
Are these bars gluten-free?
This depends on the cereal used; Honey Nut Cheerios are generally gluten-free, but you should check the packaging for confirmation.
Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Yes, you can fold in chocolate chips after the cereal is coated, though they may melt if the mixture is too hot.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but you will need a larger bowl and two 13x9 inch pans.
What should the texture of the bars be?
The bars should be chewy from the marshmallows and crunchy from the cereal.
Is margarine a good substitute for real butter?
While you can use margarine, real butter is recommended for the best flavor and setting consistency.
How do I get a flat top on the bars?
Use a spatula to press the mixture down evenly into the corners and flatten the top while it is still warm.
What is the best way to keep leftovers fresh?
Store any remaining bars in an airtight container at room temperature.