If you’re craving a sweet, crunchy, and easy-to-make treat, these No-Bake Homemade Crunch Bars are the answer! Made with crispy rice cereal, creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and a touch of honey, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without turning on the oven. They’re great for snacks, lunchboxes, or even a quick dessert. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
2 cups crispy rice cereal 🍚
1 cup milk chocolate chips 🍫
1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy) 🥜
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup 🍯
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
A pinch of salt 🧂
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper overhangs on two sides. This will make it easy to lift the bars out of the pan once they’re set.
Step 2: Mix the Cereal
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of crispy rice cereal with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler, combine the 1 cup of milk chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of peanut butter, and 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup.
If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
If using a double boiler, heat over simmering water, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
Once the mixture is melted, stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Coat
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the crispy rice cereal.
Gently fold the mixture together until the cereal is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal.
Step 5: Press and Chill
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan.
Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture down firmly and evenly. This ensures the bars hold together well.
Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are set.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once the bars are fully set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
Cut the bars into squares or rectangles of your desired size.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Tips and Variations
- Add Nuts or Seeds: Stir in chopped nuts, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Use Dark Chocolate: Swap milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet flavor.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure the crispy rice cereal is gluten-free if needed.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt extra chocolate chips and drizzle over the bars for a decorative touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ No baking required—quick and easy to make
✅ Perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy
✅ Great for kids and adults alike
✅ Customizable with your favorite add-ins
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 9-12 bars
These No-Bake Homemade Crunch Bars are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a snack, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy! 🍫🥜😋