These Chocolate Crunch Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the creamy texture of peanut butter, all held together by the light crispiness of rice cereal. This homemade version of the classic candy bar is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and no baking.
Perfect for a quick snack, these bars offer a healthier alternative to store-bought candy. They are ideal for those who love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter but prefer a treat with no artificial flavors or preservatives. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a children’s party, or just as a treat for yourself, these Chocolate Crunch Bars are sure to be a hit!
Decadent Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups crisp rice cereal
Directions:
- Melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and salt together. This can be done in a microwave or using a double boiler.Place the rice cereal in a large bowl. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the rice cereal and stir well until evenly coated.Lightly grease a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan and press a piece of parchment paper into the bottom. Transfer the crunch bar mixture into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.Freeze the mixture until firm, about 1 hour.Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into 1-inch bars or “fun size” bars by slicing down the center.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chocolate Crunch Bars
- Can I use a different type of nut butter? Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile or to accommodate nut allergies.
- How long do these bars last? Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these bars can last up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Are these bars gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free rice cereal, these bars are gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients if you have specific dietary needs.
- Can I make these bars vegan? Absolutely! Just ensure that the chocolate chips you use are dairy-free. Many brands offer vegan-friendly chocolate chips.
- Is there a sugar-free option for these bars? For a lower-sugar treat, you can use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Can I omit the nut butter? Yes, you can leave out the nut butter altogether for a plain chocolate crunch bar.
- What’s the best way to slice the bars? Once firm, use a sharp knife to slice the bars into your desired size. You can make them into “fun size” bars by slicing them down the center.
- Can I add other ingredients to the bars? Yes, feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or seeds to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Why do my bars soften at room temperature? These bars can soften if left out for too long due to the natural oils in the peanut butter and the melting point of chocolate. It’s best to keep them refrigerated.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just use a larger pan to accommodate the increased quantity.