Looking for a delicious and guilt-free treat that’s as easy as it is satisfying? These Healthy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars are just what you need! Perfectly crunchy, with a delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter, these bars are vegan, gluten-free, and a breeze to make. Whether you’re craving a wholesome snack or a sweet dessert, these bars fit the bill!
Ingredients:
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups crispy rice cereal
1 1/2 cups dairy-free chocolate chips
1/4 cup peanut butter (for topping)
Directions:
Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside. This will make it easy to remove the bars once they are set.
Make the Base: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the smooth peanut butter, maple syrup (or agave nectar), and coconut oil. Heat in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
Add Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.
Mix in the Cereal: Add the crispy rice cereal to the bowl and mix until the cereal is fully coated with the peanut butter mixture.
Form the Bars: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly to create an even layer.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the dairy-free chocolate chips in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth.
Top with Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the cereal mixture in the pan, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
Add the Peanut Butter Swirl: Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup peanut butter over the chocolate layer. Use a knife or toothpick to create a marbled effect for a decorative touch.
Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is set and the bars are firm.
Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Serving Tips:
Portion Control: Cut the bars into small squares or rectangles to control portion sizes and make them easier to serve. Each bar contains about 180 kcal, making them a satisfying yet portion-controlled treat.
Serving Temperature: These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. If they’ve been refrigerated, let them sit out for a few minutes before serving to allow them to soften slightly for a better texture.
Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, drizzle extra melted dairy-free chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt over the top before serving. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 weeks. The cool temperature helps maintain their shape and prevents the chocolate from melting.
Freezing: If you want to store the bars for a longer period, you can freeze them. Place the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Frozen bars can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Avoiding Melting: If you live in a particularly warm climate, it’s essential to keep the bars chilled to prevent the chocolate from melting. You can also keep a small batch in the refrigerator and store the rest in the freezer to maintain freshness.
Portion Control: Consider wrapping individual bars in parchment paper or plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go snacks. This also helps keep them fresh and prevents them from sticking together.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I substitute almond butter for the peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter for peanut butter if you prefer or have a nut allergy. Almond butter will provide a slightly different flavor but will work similarly in terms of texture and consistency. Just make sure to use a smooth variety to maintain the bar’s texture.
Is it possible to make these bars nut-free?
Yes, you can make these bars nut-free by using sunflower seed butter or another nut-free butter alternative. Be sure to choose a nut-free butter that has a similar consistency to peanut butter for the best results.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup or agave nectar?
Yes, you can use honey as a substitute for maple syrup or agave nectar. However, note that honey is not vegan, so if you need a vegan option, stick with maple syrup or agave nectar. Adjust the amount slightly if needed, as honey can be sweeter than these alternatives.
How can I make these bars crunchier?
To add extra crunch, you can mix in additional ingredients such as chopped nuts, seeds, or even some crushed pretzels along with the crispy rice cereal. Just be sure not to add too many extra ingredients, as it may affect the binding of the bars.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a post-workout treat, or a satisfying dessert, these Healthy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars are a fantastic choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and crunch while sticking to your health goals!
📖 Recipe:
Print
Healthy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Discover a delicious and easy-to-make snack with these Healthy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars. Packed with creamy peanut butter, rich dairy-free chocolate, and crispy rice cereal, these vegan and gluten-free bars are perfect for a healthy dessert or on-the-go treat. With a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness, they offer a guilt-free indulgence that fits perfectly into any lifestyle.
Ingredients
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups crispy rice cereal
1 1/2 cups dairy-free chocolate chips
1/4 cup peanut butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the smooth peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil. Heat in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until fully melted and combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- Add the crispy rice cereal and mix until coated with the peanut butter mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly into an even layer.
- Melt the dairy-free chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the cereal mixture, spreading evenly.
- Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup peanut butter over the chocolate layer and swirl with a knife or toothpick.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is set.
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
For a more indulgent touch, drizzle extra melted chocolate or sprinkle sea salt on top.
To keep the bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 bars
- Calories: 180 kcal
