Description
Deliciously rich and crunchy no-bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars combining creamy peanut butter, crispy rice cereal, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for a quick and easy dessert or snack that balances sweet and salty flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (for topping layer)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the Base Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully melted and smooth, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Combine with Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and gently fold in the crispy rice cereal (and salt if using) until the cereal is evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture.
- Press into Dish: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press firmly and evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon to form a compact base layer.
- Prepare Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and remaining 1/2 cup peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until melted and smooth.
- Spread Topping: Pour the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the cereal base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm and set.
- Slice and Serve: Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper edges and slice into 16 bars. Enjoy!
Notes
- Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- For longer storage, freeze the bars and thaw before serving.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before chilling for an enhanced sweet and salty contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
