These easy no-bake crunch bars combine crispy rice cereal, creamy peanut butter, and milk chocolate for the ultimate snack. With a perfect balance of crunch and smooth chocolatey goodness, they’re an effortless treat for any occasion—no oven required!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required – Quick and simple to make.
- Perfect texture – Crispy, crunchy, and chocolatey.
- Minimal ingredients – Only a few pantry staples needed.
- Great for meal prep – Make ahead and store for a convenient snack.
- Kid-friendly – A fun and easy treat for little helpers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Milk chocolate chips
- Creamy peanut butter
- Rice Krispies cereal
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Melt the Chocolate & Peanut Butter – In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter together, stirring until smooth.
- Add Vanilla & Cereal – Stir in the vanilla extract, then gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
- Prepare the Pan – Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Spread & Set – Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Chill – Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm.
- Slice & Serve – Once set, cut into bars and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Version – Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate.
- Nut-Free Option – Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Extra Crunch – Mix in chopped nuts or pretzels.
- Healthier Alternative – Use unsweetened peanut butter and dark chocolate.
- Marshmallow Twist – Add mini marshmallows for a Rocky Road-style treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration – Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week for a firmer texture.
- Freezing – Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
- Reheating – No need to reheat—just enjoy straight from storage!
FAQs
Can I use white chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Yes! White chocolate adds a different sweetness and works just as well.
How do I prevent the bars from getting too hard?
Avoid overpacking the cereal and let them set at room temperature before refrigerating.
Can I use coconut oil instead of butter?
Yes! Coconut oil adds a slight coconut flavor and keeps the bars dairy-free.
What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
Can I make these bars without peanut butter?
Yes! Swap it for almond butter, cashew butter, or even Nutella.
Do these bars need to stay refrigerated?
Not necessarily, but refrigeration helps them stay firm longer.
How do I add a salty-sweet flavor?
Sprinkle a little sea salt on top before chilling.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and double all ingredients.
Can I use granola instead of Rice Krispies?
Yes! Granola adds a heartier texture and more fiber.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal.
Conclusion
These no-bake chocolate crunch bars are an easy, delicious treat that comes together in minutes. Whether you’re making them for a party, an after-school snack, or a quick chocolate fix, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy the perfect combination of crispy and chocolatey goodness!
Print
No-Bake Chocolate Crunch Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These easy no-bake chocolate crunch bars combine crispy rice cereal, creamy peanut butter, and melted milk chocolate for the ultimate sweet and crunchy treat. Perfect for chocolate lovers, these bars come together in minutes with no oven required—great for snacks, parties, or lunchbox treats!
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips (or semi-sweet)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate & Peanut Butter – In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Alternatively, melt over low heat on the stovetop.
- Add Vanilla & Salt – Stir in the vanilla extract and salt for extra flavor.
- Mix in the Cereal – Gently fold in the Rice Krispies until fully coated in the chocolate mixture.
- Transfer to Pan – Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture in and spread evenly.
- Chill Until Firm – Refrigerate for 1 hour or until fully set.
- Slice & Serve – Once firm, cut into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it extra crunchy! Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts or crushed pretzels.
- Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower butter for a nut-free option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- chill time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake Treats, Snacks
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Find it online: https://yumandjoy.com/no-bake-homemade-crunch-bars/
