Abstract: A method is disclosed for manufacturing a filled composite product of bite-sized solid cereal-based pieces having a recess, and in which the recess has secured therein a multiplicity of smaller solid food pieces. The process involves (a) admixing the larger cereal-based pieces (having a substantial recess or cavity) with the smaller solid particulate ingredients in a revolving vessel, (b) contacting the admixture with a limited quantity of a low viscosity non-tacky liquid of sufficient quantity to slideably adhere the smaller pieces to the larger pieces, (c) rotating the drum, and then (d) drying the resulting filled composite pieces.