Cozy Grandma’s Circus Crunch is a nostalgic, old-fashioned no-bake dessert that brings together sweet, crunchy, and colorful goodness in every bite. Made with crisp cereal, fluffy marshmallows, and a buttery coating, this easy homemade snack is perfect for holidays, birthday parties, school treats, or cozy family nights at home. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser with kids and adults alike.
This classic no-bake recipe is ideal when you want a fun dessert without turning on the oven. With its cheerful colors and satisfying crunch, Circus Crunch is a vintage-style treat that feels just like something Grandma would make for special occasions.
Ingredients
Crisp rice cereal or corn cereal – 6 cups
Mini marshmallows – 2 cups
Butter – ½ cup (1 stick)
White chocolate chips or vanilla baking chips – 1½ cups
Sprinkles or colored candy pieces – ½ cup
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
Instructions
Prepare your workspace
Line a baking sheet or large tray with parchment paper and set it aside. This will make spreading and cooling the Circus Crunch easier.
Melt the coating
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely. Add the white chocolate chips and stir constantly until smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine the dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cereal and mini marshmallows. Gently toss to evenly distribute.
Coat the mixture
Pour the warm white chocolate mixture over the cereal and marshmallows. Using a spatula, gently fold everything together until evenly coated, being careful not to crush the cereal.
Add the fun toppings
Fold in the sprinkles or candy pieces, reserving a small amount to sprinkle on top for decoration.
Cool and set
Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Let it cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes, or until fully set.
Break and serve
Once firm, break into bite-sized clusters and serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve Circus Crunch as a party snack, dessert table treat, or homemade gift packaged in decorative bags. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain crunch.
Variations
You can customize this recipe by adding peanuts, mini chocolate candies, or swapping white chocolate for milk chocolate. For holidays, match the sprinkles to the season for a festive twist.
Final Thoughts
Cozy Grandma’s Circus Crunch is a simple, cheerful no-bake dessert that delivers classic flavor and texture with minimal effort. Perfect for busy schedules, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a sweet, crunchy treat, this recipe is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.
