The BEST Homemade Crunch Bars Recipe
Introduction
These homemade crunch bars are delightfully crispy, chocolatey, and nutty—perfect for a quick snack or sweet treat. With simple ingredients and no baking required, they come together easily and satisfyingly.
Ingredients
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter (any nut or seed butter can be substituted)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (can substitute grass-fed butter)
Instructions
- Step 1: Line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish or a similar deep tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then set aside.
- Step 2: Combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan. Heat gently, whisking frequently, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Step 3: Pour the melted mixture over the crispy rice cereal in a large bowl. Stir thoroughly to coat the cereal evenly.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing down lightly to form an even layer.
- Step 5: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until the bars are firm and set.
- Step 6: Remove from the fridge and cut into bars of your preferred size. Serve immediately or store as directed below.
Tips & Variations
- Try substituting almond or cashew butter for peanut butter to vary the flavor.
- Use dark, milk, or white chocolate chips depending on your sweetness preference.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling for a salty-sweet contrast.
- Press in chopped nuts or dried fruit along with the cereal for extra texture.
Storage
Store the crunch bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain their texture and freshness. If desired, you can freeze them for longer storage; thaw at room temperature before eating. To enjoy softer bars, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, ensure you use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based butter substitute if you are avoiding animal products.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Honey can be used, but it will alter the flavor slightly. Make sure you’re okay with a sweeter, less maple-like taste. Also, consider that honey may harden more when chilled.
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The BEST Homemade Crunch Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade Crunch Bars recipe combines crispy rice cereal with a rich, smooth mixture of chocolate, peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil to create delicious, no-bake treats. Perfect as a quick snack or dessert, these bars are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients, offering a satisfying crunch and a sweet, nutty flavor.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter (any nut or seed butter can be substituted)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (can substitute grass fed butter)
Instructions
- Prepare baking dish: Line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish or a similarly sized deep tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside for later use.
- Heat and combine ingredients: Place chocolate chips, peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Heat gently while stirring frequently, either by microwaving in short intervals or using low heat on the stovetop, until everything is melted and combined into a smooth mixture.
- Mix cereal and chocolate mixture: Pour the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the crispy rice cereal in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly to coat every bit of the cereal evenly with the chocolate mixture, ensuring a uniform texture.
- Set and chill: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing down lightly to create an even layer. Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until the bars are firm and fully set.
- Cut into bars: Once firm, remove the mixture from the fridge. Lift the parchment paper to take the block out of the dish and use a sharp knife to cut into bars of your desired size. Serve immediately or store refrigerated to maintain texture and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute peanut butter with any nut or seed butter like almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter according to preference or allergies.
- Maple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave nectar if desired.
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week for optimal freshness.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together better after chilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade crunch bars, no-bake bars, peanut butter chocolate bars, crispy rice treats, easy dessert recipe, healthy snack bars
