Description
These Homemade Crunch Bars are a delightful treat combining crispy rice cereal with rich melted chocolate and optional peanut butter for added creaminess. Easy to make and perfect as a snack or dessert, they set quickly in the refrigerator and make a great sweet bite for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups crispy rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies)
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (optional for added richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Measure Cereal: In a large mixing bowl, pour the crispy rice cereal and set aside, ready to combine with the chocolate mixture.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter along with the semisweet and milk chocolate chips. Stir occasionally until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, ensuring the chocolate does not burn.
- Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: If using, stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined and smooth.
- Combine with Cereal: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the crispy rice cereal. Gently fold the mixture until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated with the chocolate blend.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press down firmly and evenly to compact the mixture for firm bars.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to set completely and become firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once the bars are set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper, cut into squares or rectangles, and serve immediately.
- Enjoy: These homemade crunch bars make a perfect sweet snack or dessert for all ages.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the peanut butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure bars hold together well.
- If the chocolate mixture thickens before combining, gently warm it again over low heat.
- Store the crunch bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Adding vanilla extract enhances flavor but is optional.
