I love easy dessert bars. They are the perfect handheld treat that can be made for any occasion! Check out some more of my favorites like these Easy and Delicious Carmelitas, these yummy Congo Bars, or these classic Perfect Lemon Bars.

What are Special K Bars?

Special K bars are a classic and delicious dessert bar made with a combination of smooth peanut butter, crispy Special K cereal, and a sweet and gooey mixture of sugar and corn syrup. Our family loves this yummy treat. My kids not only love eating it, but they love to help make it too! This recipe is a go-to treat at our house because it’s so easy to make. The only cooking you must do is using the microwave (hello, kid-friendly recipe!). he rest is just mixing the ingredients. They come together in less than 15 minutes, so whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack, a dessert at a potluck, or a lunchbox surprise, Special K bars are definitely going to become your favorite treat too!

Ingredients in Special K Bars

These ingredients are simple and easy and you probably already have most of them on hand! All you might need to grab at the store is some Specia K cereal and you will be all set! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

Peanut Butter: I use smooth peanut butter for this recipe, and it binds all of the ingredients together. Granulated Sugar: The sugar adds sweetness to this yummy treat. Light Corn Syrup: This sweet syrup makes the bars nice and chewy. Vanilla: A splash of vanilla extract enhances the flavor. Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Special K Cereal: This rice and wheat flake cereal adds a nice crunch. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: I like using semi-sweet chocolate but you can use milk chocolate if you prefer. Butterscotch Chips: These are mixed in to complement the chocolate and add a distinct flavor to the bars.

Let’s Make the BEST Dessert Bars!

These Special K dessert bars will fly off the table (which is why I suggest making two batches… Then you will for sure have some to snack on later)! The balance of sweet and salty with a hint of butterscotch is a flavor that you will absolutely love!

Fruity Twist: Mix in dried fruits like chopped raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots into the Special K mixture to add a hint of natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top of the melted chocolate and butterscotch chips for a tropical twist that not only adds in a delicious texture, but the flavor combo is so good! Caramel Drizzle: Once the bars have chilled and set, drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce over the top. It really takes them to the next level. Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the chocolate and butterscotch chips. It will make these Special K bars have the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

In the Refrigerator: Place the bars in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. Store the bars in the fridge for up to 1 week. In the Freezer: Place the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, put them in the freezer, and let the bars freeze until firm. Once the bars are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or airtight freezer bag. Don’t forget to label it with the date. They should last about 2-3 months.

Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

15 mins

No Bake Buckeye Peanut Butter Balls

30 mins

Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

20 mins

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

2 hrs 15 mins

Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 75Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 43Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 35Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 89Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 11Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 36Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 77Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 86Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 92Easy Special K Bars Recipe - 83