Now, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spoon out mini donut shapes using about a tablespoon of the coated Cheerios mixture. I found that using my fingers works best for molding them into little donut shapes. Make sure to leave space between each one, as they’ll expand slightly while baking. Pop them into the oven and let them bake for 10-12 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. The aroma wafting through my kitchen at this point is absolutely divine!
Once they’re done, take the mini donuts out and let them cool for a couple of minutes. This is where I like to prepare my toppings! While they’re still warm, you can drizzle them with some extra melted butter and sprinkle on powdered sugar, or if you’re feeling adventurous, add some colorful sprinkles or a chocolate drizzle on top! Honestly, the combinations are endless, and my kids love to get involved by customizing their own treats.
Finally, serve them warm and watch as everyone digs in with smiles on their faces! They create such a fun atmosphere, with each bite being a nostalgic reminder of both childhood breakfasts and sweet treats.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways—using different cereals for a similar texture, but nothing compares to the original Cheerios. They provide the perfect crunch and sweetness that pairs so well with the butter. Also, make sure the butter is truly melted. I once used slightly cooled butter, and it didn’t coat the Cheerios well, which led to a dry batch—lesson learned!
Timing is everything. I found that waiting until the donuts are golden brown makes all the difference in flavor. Underbake them, and you miss out on that rich, buttery taste. Overbake them, and they can turn into hard little hockey pucks. Trust your nose; when that sweet smell fills the air, it’s time to check!
Lastly, don’t skip on the toppings! I experimented with using different types of sugar and even whipped cream one time—yum! It adds a fantastic finishing touch that can turn this simple treat into something spectacular.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made was crowding the baking sheet. I thought I could fit too many onto one tray, and while they did bake, they didn’t hold their shape well. Leave plenty of room for the mini donuts to spread a bit! (See the next page below to continue…)