Twinkles Cereal Returns: Retro Recipes and Modern Twists on a 1960s Classic

Get ready for a blast from the past! General Mills has resurrected Twinkles cereal, a beloved breakfast staple from the 1960s. For those who remember its sweet, star-shaped goodness, this is a chance to relive cherished childhood memories. And for those new to Twinkles, prepare to discover a cereal that’s not only delicious on its own but also a fantastic ingredient for a variety of creative recipes. This article dives deep into the history of Twinkles, explores fun and innovative ways to incorporate it into your cooking, and provides detailed instructions to bring these delightful treats to your table.

## A Trip Down Memory Lane: The History of Twinkles Cereal

Originally launched in 1966, Twinkles cereal quickly captured the hearts (and stomachs) of kids everywhere. Its distinctive star shape and lightly sweetened flavor made it a breakfast favorite. The cereal was known for its cheerful mascot, Twinkle the Dream Elf, who encouraged children to embrace their imaginations. Sadly, Twinkles disappeared from store shelves in the late 1960s, leaving a void in the cereal aisle and in the memories of those who grew up with it.

Now, after decades of longing, General Mills has brought back Twinkles, reigniting a sense of nostalgia and excitement. The return of Twinkles is more than just a product relaunch; it’s a celebration of simpler times and the enduring power of a well-loved brand. The taste and shape remain faithful to the original, ensuring that every bite brings back those cherished memories.

## Twinkles Beyond the Bowl: Unleashing Culinary Creativity

While Twinkles cereal is undoubtedly enjoyable with milk, its versatility extends far beyond the breakfast bowl. Its unique texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect ingredient for a variety of recipes, from sweet treats to savory snacks. Let’s explore some exciting ways to incorporate Twinkles into your cooking.

### 1. Twinkles Cereal Bars: A No-Bake Delight

These cereal bars are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy Twinkles. They require no baking, making them perfect for a last-minute treat or a fun activity to do with kids.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 cups Twinkles cereal
* 10 oz marshmallows
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
* Sprinkles for decoration (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Pan:** Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make them easy to remove.
2. **Melt the Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to burn the marshmallows; low and slow is the key.
3. **Add Vanilla (Optional):** If you’re using vanilla extract, stir it into the melted marshmallow mixture. This adds a subtle depth of flavor to the bars.
4. **Combine Cereal and Marshmallow Mixture:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately pour in the Twinkles cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow mixture until it is evenly coated. Work quickly, as the marshmallow mixture will start to harden as it cools.
5. **Press into the Pan:** Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased with butter or cooking spray) to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Make sure the bars are packed firmly to prevent them from crumbling.
6. **Decorate (Optional):** If desired, sprinkle the top of the bars with sprinkles while the marshmallow mixture is still slightly sticky. This will help the sprinkles adhere to the bars.
7. **Cool and Cut:** Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, which usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour. Once cooled, lift the parchment paper out of the pan and cut the bars into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, you can lightly grease the knife with butter or cooking spray.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** These Twinkles cereal bars are best enjoyed fresh. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Chocolate:** Melt 1/2 cup of chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled cereal bars for an extra touch of sweetness.
* **Nut Butter:** Stir in 1/4 cup of peanut butter or almond butter to the melted marshmallow mixture for a nutty flavor.
* **Dried Fruit:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, to the cereal mixture for added texture and flavor.
* **Different Marshmallows:** Experiment with different flavors of marshmallows, such as flavored marshmallows or mini marshmallows, to create unique variations.

### 2. Twinkles Cereal Milkshake: A Sweet and Creamy Treat

This milkshake is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavor of Twinkles cereal in a cool and refreshing drink. It’s perfect for a hot day or as a special treat.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups vanilla ice cream
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1 cup Twinkles cereal
* Whipped cream for topping (optional)
* Extra Twinkles cereal for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, and Twinkles cereal.
2. **Blend Until Smooth:** Blend the ingredients on high speed until the milkshake is smooth and creamy. If the milkshake is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. **Pour into Glasses:** Pour the milkshake into glasses. You can chill the glasses beforehand for an extra cold treat.
4. **Top with Whipped Cream (Optional):** If desired, top the milkshakes with whipped cream.
5. **Garnish with Twinkles (Optional):** Sprinkle extra Twinkles cereal on top of the whipped cream for a fun and colorful garnish.
6. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy your Twinkles cereal milkshake immediately!

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Chocolate Milkshake:** Use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla for a chocolatey twist.
* **Malt Powder:** Add a tablespoon of malt powder to the milkshake for a classic malted flavor.
* **Peanut Butter:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter for a peanut butter and Twinkles milkshake.
* **Fruit:** Add a handful of your favorite fruit, such as strawberries or bananas, for a fruity milkshake.
* **Edible Glitter:** Sprinkle edible glitter on top for an extra sparkle.

### 3. Twinkles Cereal Cookies: A Crispy and Chewy Delight

These cookies combine the classic flavors of a chocolate chip cookie with the fun and crunchy texture of Twinkles cereal. They’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup chocolate chips
* 2 cups Twinkles cereal

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or do this by hand.
3. **Beat in Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Stir in Chocolate Chips and Twinkles:** Stir in the chocolate chips and Twinkles cereal until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
9. **Cool on Baking Sheets:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. **Serve and Enjoy:** These Twinkles cereal cookies are best enjoyed fresh. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Different Chocolate Chips:** Use different types of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips, to create different flavor combinations.
* **Nuts:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the dough for added texture and flavor.
* **Sprinkles:** Decorate the cookies with sprinkles before baking for a festive touch.
* **Peanut Butter Chips:** Use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chips for a peanut butter and Twinkles cookie.
* **Brown Butter:** Brown the butter before creaming it with the sugars for a nutty and complex flavor.

### 4. Twinkles Cereal Yogurt Parfait: A Healthy and Delicious Treat

This parfait is a healthy and satisfying way to enjoy Twinkles cereal. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
* 1/2 cup Twinkles cereal
* 1/4 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Layer Ingredients:** In a glass or jar, layer the Greek yogurt, Twinkles cereal, and fresh berries. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used.
2. **Drizzle with Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional):** If desired, drizzle the parfait with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
3. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the parfait immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for later.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Different Yogurt:** Use different types of yogurt, such as flavored yogurt, coconut yogurt, or almond yogurt, to create different flavor combinations.
* **Granola:** Add a layer of granola for added crunch and fiber.
* **Seeds:** Sprinkle chia seeds or flax seeds on top for added nutrients.
* **Nut Butter:** Drizzle a spoonful of nut butter on top for added protein and healthy fats.
* **Tropical Fruit:** Use tropical fruits, such as mango, pineapple, or kiwi, for a tropical twist.

### 5. Twinkles Cereal-Crusted Chicken Tenders: A Savory and Crunchy Delight

Who says Twinkles are only for sweet treats? This recipe uses crushed Twinkles cereal to create a crispy and flavorful coating for chicken tenders. It’s a fun and unexpected way to incorporate this retro cereal into a savory dish.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound chicken tenders
* 1 cup Twinkles cereal, crushed
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 egg, beaten
* 2 tablespoons milk
* Cooking oil for frying

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Coating:** In a shallow dish, combine the crushed Twinkles cereal, flour, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. **Prepare the Egg Wash:** In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. **Coat the Chicken Tenders:** Dip each chicken tender in the egg wash, then dredge it in the Twinkles cereal mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Press the cereal mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere.
4. **Fry the Chicken Tenders:** Heat about 1/2 inch of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken tenders to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
5. **Cook Until Golden Brown and Cooked Through:** Cook the chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. **Drain on Paper Towels:** Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the Twinkles cereal-crusted chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Bake Instead of Fry:** For a healthier option, bake the chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Twinkles cereal mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add lemon zest to the Twinkles mixture for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Herbs:** Add dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the Twinkles cereal mixture for an herby flavor.
* **Panko Breadcrumbs:** Mix panko breadcrumbs with the crushed Twinkles for extra crunch.

## The Nostalgic Appeal and Modern Reinvention

The return of Twinkles cereal is a testament to the power of nostalgia. It’s a reminder of simpler times and the comfort of familiar flavors. However, this relaunch is more than just a trip down memory lane. It’s an opportunity to reinvent a classic and introduce it to a new generation.

By incorporating Twinkles into a variety of recipes, we can explore its versatility and discover new ways to enjoy this beloved cereal. From no-bake cereal bars to crispy chicken tenders, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a box of Twinkles and let your culinary creativity shine!

## Conclusion: Twinkles Cereal – A Star Reborn

Twinkles cereal’s comeback is a cause for celebration. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, embrace the nostalgia, experiment with new recipes, and let Twinkles cereal bring a little sparkle to your day. This isn’t just cereal; it’s a star reborn, ready to shine in your kitchen and on your table for years to come. Happy cooking and happy eating!