No-Bake Homemade Crunch Bars

by

No-Bake Homemade Crunch Bars

Quick, easy, and perfect for a snack or dessert!

Ingredients

  • 3 cups crispy rice cereal (check for gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 ½ cups chocolate chips (Paleo and vegan options available)
  • 1 cup peanut butter (or any nut/seed butter, like almond or sunflower butter)
  • ½ cup maple syrup (Keto-friendly options like sugar-free syrup work too)
  • ¼ cup coconut oil (can substitute with grass-fed butter)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • 8×8-inch baking dish or similar deep tray
  • Parchment paper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
    • Line an 8×8-inch baking dish or tray with parchment paper, ensuring enough overhang for easy removal later. Set aside.
  2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
    • Add the crispy rice cereal to a large mixing bowl. Set aside while preparing the wet mixture.
  3. Melt the Wet Ingredients:
    • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil.
    • Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
    • Alternatively, melt the mixture over low heat on the stovetop, stirring constantly.
  4. Mix Everything Together:
    • Pour the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the crispy rice cereal in the large bowl.
    • Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until all the cereal is evenly coated.
  5. Form the Bars:
    • Transfer the mixture into the lined baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Use the back of the spatula to press the mixture firmly into the dish.
  6. Chill and Set:
    • Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are firm and set.
  7. Slice and Serve:
    • Once firm, lift the mixture out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into bars or squares of your desired size.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw slightly before serving for the best texture.

Customization Ideas:

  • Add-ins: Mix in crushed nuts, seeds, or shredded coconut for extra texture.
  • Toppings: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for decoration.
  • Flavor Variations: Use flavored nut butters like almond-cinnamon or chocolate-hazelnut for a twist.

Enjoy these crunchy, chewy, and chocolatey bars anytime! Let me know if you’d like more recipes like this one.

Leave a Comment