🍩 Donut Hole Cereal Recipes: Beyond the Bowl!
Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal, with its miniature donut shapes and delightful glaze, has quickly become a favorite breakfast option for many. But why limit its enjoyment to just a morning bowl? This cereal is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of creative and delicious recipes. This article explores exciting ways to use Donut Shop Cereal, moving beyond the traditional bowl of milk and turning it into delectable treats and innovative snacks. Get ready to unleash your inner chef and discover the many possibilities that lie within those tiny, crunchy donut holes!
## Understanding the Appeal of Donut Hole Cereal
Before diving into the recipes, let’s understand why Donut Hole Cereal is so appealing. Its miniature size, authentic donut flavor (often available in glazed and chocolate varieties), and satisfying crunch make it irresistible. It’s not overly sweet like some cereals, making it a great base ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes. Plus, its playful shape adds visual appeal to any creation.
## Recipe Categories:
We’ll be exploring recipes in the following categories:
* **Cereal Bars & Bites:** Perfect for on-the-go snacking.
* **Desserts:** Elevating classic desserts with a donut hole twist.
* **Breakfast Innovations:** Reinventing breakfast staples.
* **Trail Mix & Snack Mixes:** Adding a touch of sweetness and crunch to your favorite mixes.
* **Kid-Friendly Creations:** Fun and engaging recipes for children to enjoy making and eating.
## Cereal Bars & Bites
These recipes are ideal for a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or a sweet treat to pack in a lunchbox. They’re easy to make and require minimal baking (or no baking at all!).
### 1. Donut Hole Cereal Energy Bars (No-Bake)
These no-bake energy bars are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a nutritious and delicious snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* 1 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup peanut butter (or any nut butter)
* 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
* 1/4 cup protein powder (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
* 1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
* 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flax seeds (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the Donut Shop Cereal, rolled oats, protein powder (if using), chopped nuts, dried fruit, and chia seeds or flax seeds (if using). Mix well.
2. **Melt Peanut Butter and Honey:** In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter and honey or maple syrup for about 30-45 seconds, or until smooth and easily stirrable. Be careful not to overheat.
3. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Pour the melted peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should be slightly sticky.
4. **Press into Pan:** Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture to the pan and press down firmly using your hands or the back of a spoon. Ensure the mixture is evenly distributed and compact.
5. **Chill:** Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bars to set.
6. **Cut and Serve:** Once the bars are firm, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into desired sizes (bars or squares). Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Nut-Free:** Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter.
* **Vegan:** Ensure your protein powder and other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
* **Chocolate Chip Addition:** Add 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
* **Coconut Flakes:** Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a chewy texture.
### 2. Donut Hole Cereal Truffle Bites
These truffle bites are a decadent treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. They’re perfect for parties or a special occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Chocolate for melting (milk, dark, or white)
* Sprinkles or crushed Donut Shop Cereal for coating (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Crush Cereal:** Place the Donut Shop Cereal in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Alternatively, place the cereal in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and crushed cereal. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. **Chill Mixture:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
4. **Shape into Balls:** Once chilled, roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. **Melt Chocolate:** Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
6. **Dip and Coat:** Dip each cereal ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place the dipped balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. **Add Toppings:** While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with sprinkles or crushed Donut Shop Cereal, if desired.
8. **Chill Again:** Refrigerate the truffle bites for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Different Chocolate Coatings:** Experiment with different types of chocolate for a variety of flavors.
* **Nutella Addition:** Add a tablespoon of Nutella to the cream cheese mixture for a hazelnut flavor.
* **Peppermint Extract:** Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for a festive twist.
* **Salted Caramel:** Drizzle with salted caramel after dipping in chocolate.
### 3. Peanut Butter Donut Hole Cereal Bites
These are a simple and delicious combination of peanut butter and the beloved cereal.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* 1/2 cup peanut butter
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
* Optional: mini chocolate chips, sprinkles
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, cream together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter until smooth.
2. Gently fold in the Donut Hole Cereal until evenly coated.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls.
4. Optional: Roll the balls in mini chocolate chips or sprinkles.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
## Desserts
Let’s elevate some classic desserts with the unique flavor and texture of Donut Hole Cereal.
### 4. Donut Hole Cereal Rice Krispie Treats
A twist on the classic Rice Krispie Treat, this version incorporates Donut Shop Cereal for added flavor and crunch.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 cups Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* 3 tablespoons butter
* 10 ounces marshmallows
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
2. **Add Vanilla Extract:** Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Combine Cereal and Marshmallow Mixture:** Add the Donut Shop Cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture. Gently stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
4. **Press into Pan:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Transfer the mixture to the pan and press down firmly using your hands or the back of a spoon. Ensure the mixture is evenly distributed and compact.
5. **Cool and Cut:** Let the treats cool completely before cutting into squares.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Brown Butter:** Brown the butter before adding the marshmallows for a richer, nuttier flavor.
* **Chocolate Drizzle:** Drizzle melted chocolate over the treats after they have cooled.
* **Sprinkles:** Add sprinkles to the marshmallow mixture before pressing into the pan.
* **Marshmallow Flavor:** Use flavored marshmallows for a unique twist (e.g., strawberry or vanilla bean).
### 5. Donut Hole Cereal Milkshake
A fun and flavorful milkshake that captures the essence of cereal milk.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups vanilla ice cream
* 1 cup milk
* 1/2 cup Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* Whipped cream and extra Donut Shop Cereal for topping (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Soak Cereal (Optional):** For a stronger cereal milk flavor, soak the Donut Shop Cereal in the milk for about 15-20 minutes. Strain the milk, reserving both the milk and the cereal.
2. **Blend Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk (or cereal-infused milk), and reserved cereal (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. **Pour and Top:** Pour the milkshake into a glass. Top with whipped cream and extra Donut Shop Cereal, if desired.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Chocolate Ice Cream:** Use chocolate ice cream for a chocolate donut milkshake.
* **Peanut Butter:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter for a peanut butter donut milkshake.
* **Espresso:** Add a shot of espresso for a coffee donut milkshake.
* **Thick Shake:** Add more ice cream for a thicker milkshake.
### 6. Donut Hole Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches
A creative way to enjoy ice cream, using the cereal as a crunchy, flavorful coating.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pint of your favorite ice cream, slightly softened
* 2 cups Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate), crushed
* Optional: Sprinkles, mini chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Ice Cream:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop ice cream into balls or cut into squares and place on the prepared baking sheet. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
2. **Crush Cereal:** Crush the Donut Shop Cereal into fine crumbs. Place the crushed cereal in a shallow dish. You can also add sprinkles or mini chocolate chips to the cereal.
3. **Coat Ice Cream:** Working quickly, roll each ice cream ball or square in the crushed cereal, ensuring it’s fully coated. You can also press the cereal onto the ice cream with your hands.
4. **Freeze Again:** Return the coated ice cream to the baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour to allow the coating to set.
5. **Make Sandwiches (Optional):** Press the coated ice cream between two cookies or wafers to create ice cream sandwiches. Freeze again for another 30 minutes.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Different Ice Cream Flavors:** Experiment with different ice cream flavors to complement the cereal.
* **Cookie Variations:** Use different types of cookies or wafers for the sandwiches.
* **Chocolate Ganache:** Dip the cereal-coated ice cream in chocolate ganache before freezing for an extra layer of flavor.
## Breakfast Innovations
Beyond a bowl of cereal, Donut Shop Cereal can be incorporated into other breakfast staples for a fun twist.
### 7. Donut Hole Cereal Pancakes
Add a touch of sweetness and crunch to your pancakes with Donut Shop Cereal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup pancake mix
* 3/4 cup milk
* 1 egg
* 1 tablespoon melted butter
* 1/2 cup Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Pancake Batter:** In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
2. **Fold in Cereal:** Gently fold in the Donut Shop Cereal into the pancake batter.
3. **Cook Pancakes:** Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
4. **Cook Until Golden Brown:** Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as syrup, butter, or fruit.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Chocolate Chip Pancakes:** Add chocolate chips to the batter along with the cereal.
* **Fruit Pancakes:** Add sliced bananas, blueberries, or strawberries to the batter.
* **Buttermilk Pancakes:** Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangier flavor.
* **Donut Glaze:** Drizzle with a simple donut glaze (powdered sugar and milk) for an extra touch of sweetness.
### 8. Donut Hole Cereal French Toast
Coat your French toast in crushed Donut Shop Cereal for a crispy and flavorful breakfast.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 slices of bread
* 2 eggs
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate), crushed
* Butter for frying
**Instructions:**
1. **Crush Cereal:** Crush the Donut Shop Cereal into fine crumbs. Place the crushed cereal in a shallow dish.
2. **Prepare Egg Mixture:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
3. **Dip Bread:** Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated.
4. **Coat with Cereal:** Immediately after dipping in the egg mixture, press each slice of bread into the crushed cereal, coating both sides evenly.
5. **Cook French Toast:** Melt butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook the French toast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as syrup, fruit, or whipped cream.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Cinnamon Sugar:** Add cinnamon sugar to the crushed cereal for a warm and spicy flavor.
* **Nutmeg:** Add a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture.
* **Brioche Bread:** Use brioche bread for a richer and more decadent French toast.
* **Fruit Compote:** Serve with a homemade fruit compote for a more elegant breakfast.
### 9. Donut Hole Cereal Yogurt Parfaits
Create a simple and customizable yogurt parfait with layers of creamy yogurt, crunchy cereal, and fresh fruit.
**Ingredients:**
* Yogurt (Greek, vanilla, or flavored)
* Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* Fresh fruit (berries, bananas, sliced peaches)
* Optional: granola, honey, nuts
**Instructions:**
1. In a glass or parfait dish, layer yogurt, Donut Hole Cereal, and fresh fruit.
2. Repeat layers until the glass is full.
3. Top with a drizzle of honey, granola, or nuts, if desired.
4. Serve immediately or chill for later.
## Trail Mix & Snack Mixes
Add Donut Shop Cereal to your trail mixes and snack mixes for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
### 10. Donut Hole Cereal Trail Mix
A simple and satisfying trail mix that’s perfect for hiking, road trips, or afternoon snacks.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts, walnuts)
* 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots)
* 1/4 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white)
* Optional: seeds (sunflower, pumpkin), pretzels
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the Donut Shop Cereal, mixed nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips (and any optional ingredients). Mix well.
2. **Store:** Store the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Spicy Trail Mix:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
* **Coconut Flakes:** Add shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
* **Pretzel Bites:** Add pretzel bites for a salty and crunchy element.
* **Seeds:** Add sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added nutrients.
### 11. Sweet and Salty Donut Hole Cereal Snack Mix
This mix combines the best of both worlds, offering a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* 2 cups pretzels (mini twists or sticks)
* 1 cup salted peanuts
* 1/2 cup butter, melted
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the Donut Shop Cereal, pretzels, and salted peanuts. Mix well.
3. **Prepare Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. **Coat Snack Mix:** Pour the sauce over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. **Bake:** Spread the snack mix in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
6. **Cool and Store:** Let the snack mix cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Spices:** Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
* **Use Different Pretzels:** Experiment with different types of pretzels for a variety of textures and flavors.
* **Cheese Powder:** Add a tablespoon of cheese powder for a cheesy flavor.
* **Maple Syrup:** Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
## Kid-Friendly Creations
These recipes are fun and engaging for children to make and eat, encouraging creativity and healthy eating habits.
### 12. Donut Hole Cereal Rainbow Skewers
A colorful and healthy snack that’s perfect for parties or a fun afternoon activity.
**Ingredients:**
* Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* Fresh fruit (strawberries, grapes, blueberries, kiwi, melon)
* Wooden skewers
* Optional: Yogurt dip
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Fruit:** Wash and cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Assemble Skewers:** Thread the fruit and Donut Shop Cereal onto the skewers, alternating colors and textures. Encourage children to get creative with their designs.
3. **Serve:** Serve the skewers immediately or chill for later. Serve with yogurt dip, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Use Different Fruits:** Use any fruits that are in season and that your children enjoy.
* **Cheese Cubes:** Add cheese cubes for a protein boost.
* **Vegetable Skewers:** Create vegetable skewers with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers.
* **Peanut Butter Dip:** Serve with a peanut butter dip for added flavor.
### 13. Donut Hole Cereal Critter Creations
Use Donut Shop Cereal to create edible critters and characters.
**Ingredients:**
* Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* Peanut butter or cream cheese
* Pretzel sticks
* Candy eyes
* Sprinkles
* Other edible decorations
**Instructions:**
1. **Base:** Use a large piece of cereal or a small cracker as the base for your critter.
2. **Adhesive:** Use peanut butter or cream cheese to attach smaller pieces of cereal, pretzel sticks, and candy eyes to create the critter’s body, legs, arms, and facial features.
3. **Decorate:** Use sprinkles and other edible decorations to add details and personality to your critter.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Animal Themes:** Create animals such as caterpillars, butterflies, or turtles.
* **Character Themes:** Create characters from movies or books.
* **Holiday Themes:** Create holiday-themed critters, such as snowmen or reindeer.
### 14. Mini Donut Hole Cereal Pizzas
Use English muffins or crackers as a base and the cereal to make mini dessert pizzas.
**Ingredients:**
* English muffins or large crackers
* Cream cheese or Nutella
* Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal (Glazed or Chocolate)
* Assorted fruits (strawberries, blueberries, bananas, etc.)
* Shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Spread cream cheese or Nutella on the English muffins or crackers.
2. Arrange Donut Hole Cereal and assorted fruits on top.
3. Sprinkle with shredded coconut or mini chocolate chips, if desired.
4. Serve immediately.
## Conclusion
Kellogg’s Donut Shop Cereal is more than just a breakfast staple; it’s a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a wide range of delicious and innovative recipes. From no-bake energy bars to decadent truffle bites, and from breakfast innovations to kid-friendly creations, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a box of Donut Shop Cereal and get ready to unleash your culinary creativity! These recipes are sure to impress your friends and family, and they’re a fun way to add a touch of sweetness and crunch to your everyday meals and snacks. Enjoy!