Description
These Healthy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines creamy peanut butter, crispy rice cereal, and a smooth dairy-free chocolate topping. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup or agave nectar, this recipe is perfect for a quick snack or dessert without turning on the oven. Ready in just over an hour, these bars are perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome, satisfying, gluten-free, and dairy-free indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Mixture
- 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
Chocolate Topping
- 1 1/2 cups dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside to prevent sticking and to make lifting the bars easier after chilling.
- Melt Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine smooth peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil. Heat in 20-second increments, stirring between each, until everything is fully melted and well combined.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the mixture with flavor.
- Combine with Cereal: Add the crispy rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture and mix well, ensuring all cereal pieces are evenly coated with the peanut butter blend.
- Press Mixture: Transfer the coated cereal mixture to the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly to create a solid base layer.
- Melt Chocolate Chips: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the dairy-free chocolate chips in 20-second increments, stirring in between until smooth and creamy.
- Spread Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the pressed cereal base, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Add Peanut Butter Swirl: Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup peanut butter on top of the chocolate layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the peanut butter into the chocolate for a decorative effect.
- Chill Bars: Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate topping has fully set and the bars are firm to the touch.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 16 equal squares and serve for a delightful, healthy treat.
Notes
- You can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar for a different natural sweetener.
- Ensure peanut butter is smooth for easier mixing and better texture.
- The use of dairy-free chocolate chips makes this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a dairy-free diet.
- Press the mixture firmly in the pan to help the bars hold together well after chilling.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
