Description
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars combine creamy peanut butter, sweet honey, crunchy oats, and puffed rice cereal topped with a smooth layer of dark chocolate. Perfect as a nutritious snack or dessert, they are easy to prepare with no baking involved and set in the refrigerator for a deliciously satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups puffed rice cereal
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (or dairy-free chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Combine Peanut Butter and Honey: In a microwave-safe bowl, add the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup). Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt into the peanut butter and honey mixture to enhance the taste.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats and puffed rice cereal thoroughly.
- Coat Dry Ingredients: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oat and puffed rice mix. Stir until all dry ingredients are evenly coated with the wet mixture.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly and evenly to ensure the bars hold together well.
- Melt Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips along with the coconut oil (if using) in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Apply Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the pressed oat and peanut butter layer, spreading it out smoothly with a spatula or spoon.
- Chill to Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, allowing the bars to firm up and the chocolate to set.
- Slice and Store: Once set, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into 12 bars. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or oils for a healthier option.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a vegan alternative.
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling.
- Refrigerate bars until firm before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Optionally, add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor in the oat mixture.
