Name: Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup butter; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 cups Cheerios or oat o’s cereal; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt

Oh, have I got a treat for you today! This Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe is hands down one of my favorite ways to jazz up a simple bowl of cereal. It’s got that perfect cozy sweetness from the butter and cinnamon that makes breakfast feel like a warm hug. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up, so whether you’re rushing through a weekday morning or craving some nostalgic comfort on a lazy weekend, this recipe has got your back.

What I love most about this Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe is how it takes everyday pantry staples and transforms them into something special without breaking a sweat. You probably have everything you need already! Also, the cinnamon-sugar combo gives a subtle spice that pairs so well with the buttery gloss coating each crunchy O—seriously addicting. I like to think of it as cereal, but fancy. You’re going to want to keep this one in your go-to breakfast lineup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients here work beautifully together to create that irresistible mini donut flavor without complicated steps or hard-to-find items. I’ve found using quality butter and fresh cinnamon really makes a difference if you want your cereal to shine!

Butter: Using real butter (not margarine) gives you the richest flavor and that glossy, amazing coating on the Cheerios.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash adds a subtle warmth that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Cheerios or oat o’s cereal: I prefer lightly sweetened Cheerios for this recipe, but oat o’s work great if you want to swap it up.
Granulated sugar: This is the classic sugar you likely have on hand; it caramelizes a bit with the butter for that donut-sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Freshly ground or a good-quality jarred cinnamon will give you that perfect punch of spice every time.
Pinch of salt: A little salt rounds out the sweetness and amps up all the flavors.

Variations

This Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe is a total canvas for your tastes. I love how easy it is to switch it up and still keep all the cozy feelings intact. Feel free to get playful — after all, experimenting is half the fun!

Mini Donuts Inspired: Once, I tossed in some powdered sugar after coating the Cheerios for an extra sweet layer. It reminded me even more of actual mini donuts — so good!
Maple Syrup Swap: For an autumn twist, try swapping the granulated sugar with real maple syrup. It adds a deep richness that’s divine with cinnamon.
Gluten-Free Option: Stick to naturally gluten-free Cheerios and double-check your vanilla extract to keep it safe if you’re serving friends with gluten sensitivities.
Nutty Add-In: I sometimes sprinkle in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunch and nuttiness that complements the sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Mix in Flavor

Start by gently melting your butter in a medium skillet or saucepan over low heat. You don’t want it to brown or burn — just fully melted with a smooth texture. Once melted, take it off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. That extra splash gives the butter that dreamy aroma that sets the stage for the whole batch.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This simple spice mix is what brings your Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe to life — so don’t skip this step. Make sure the cinnamon is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Toss Cheerios in Butter and Spice

Pour the melted butter mixture over the Cheerios in a big mixing bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the cereal, coating every little O with that buttery goodness. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mix on top and toss again to evenly cover. This part is super fun — watch those Cheerios get shiny and flavorful right before your eyes!

Step 4: Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving

I like to spread the coated Cheerios on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate to cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps the sugar set a bit and keeps the texture perfectly crisp. You don’t want the cereal sitting in warm butter or it can get soggy fast.

How to Serve Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe

A close-up of a bowl filled with light brown oat cereal rings covered with a light dusting of white sugar crystals. The cereal rings have a crunchy texture with some showing slight darker spots from toasting. The bowl is white with a black floral pattern on the inside and a thin yellow rim around the edge, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

If you want to get fancy, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips is a little extra touch I use when serving guests. Fresh berries on the side also add a juicy pop that balances out the sweetness really well.

Side Dishes

I love pairing this Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe with a big mug of coffee or hot cocoa. For a fuller breakfast, add some scrambled eggs or a yogurt parfait. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and everyday ease.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthday breakfasts or weekend brunches, I’ve served these Cheerios in small glass jars layered with yogurt and fresh fruit. It looks beautiful and makes the Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios part of a trendy parfait. You can even wrap individual servings with a cute ribbon for something festive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Since this cereal is coated in butter and sugar, it’s best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I usually keep mine in a glass jar with a tight lid for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it away from heat or moisture to maintain that satisfying crunch.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe because when thawed, the buttery coating can get soggy or clump. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days stored properly.

Reheating

If you find the Cheerios have lost a little crispness, a quick toast in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes can help revive that crunch. Just spread them out on a baking sheet and keep an eye so they don’t burn — it works wonders!

FAQs

Can I use other cereals besides Cheerios for the Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe is designed around Cheerios or oat o’s because of their shape and texture, you can experiment with other cereals you enjoy. Just keep in mind that cereals with heavier coatings or extra sweetness might alter the final flavor or texture slightly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap out the butter for a high-quality dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. The flavor will vary a bit but still delicious. I recommend starting with a smaller amount and adjusting since some oils have stronger flavors.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the sweet cinnamon and buttery coating, which makes their usual cereal feel like a special treat. Just be mindful of portion sizes and sugar if you’re aiming for a balanced diet.
How long does Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, this cereal stays crisp and tasty for about 3 days. Beyond that, the buttery coating might start to soften or get sticky.
Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Doubling is super easy and perfect for serving a crowd. Just melt the butter in a larger pan and mix all the ingredients accordingly. I usually do this for weekend brunches, and the batch disappears fast!

Final Thoughts

This Mini Donut Hot Buttered Cheerios Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it turns a simple cereal breakfast into something magical and cozy. Every time I make it, the house fills with that warm vanilla-cinnamon scent that instantly lifts my mood. I hope you give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is to impress yourself and your family with just a few ingredients and minutes in the kitchen. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to be your new secret breakfast weapon!