No-Bake Homemade Crunch Bars

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No-Bake Homemade Crunch Bars (5 Ingredients, Quick & Easy!)

Description:
These no-bake homemade crunch bars are the perfect go-to snack or dessert for anyone looking for a quick, simple treat. With just five ingredients and less than two minutes of prep time, they are incredibly easy to make. Naturally gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free, these bars can also be made sugar-free, offering a versatile option for different dietary needs. The combination of smooth, creamy peanut butter, rich dairy-free chocolate, and crispy puffed rice cereal creates a satisfyingly crunchy texture that’s perfect for a sweet indulgence. Whether you’re preparing them for an after-school snack, a quick dessert, or a healthy treat, these bars are bound to become a favorite!

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups dairy-free chocolate chips (or any preferred chocolate)

  • 1 cup crunchy peanut butter (or almond butter)

  • 2 cups puffed rice cereal (ensure it’s gluten-free if needed)

  • ½ cup chopped peanuts (optional, for extra crunch)

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sweetener of choice (optional, if a sweeter taste is desired)

Instructions:

  1. Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dairy-free chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate and peanut butter are fully melted and smooth.

  2. Add the Rice Cereal: Once the peanut butter and chocolate mixture is smooth, stir in the puffed rice cereal and chopped peanuts (if using). Mix well until all the cereal is coated in the chocolate mixture.

  3. Set the Bars: Pour the mixture into a lined baking dish or container. Press it down firmly to ensure it holds together when cut.

  4. Chill: Place the dish in the refrigerator for about 30 to 60 minutes to allow the bars to firm up and set completely.

  5. Cut and Serve: Once the bars are firm, remove from the fridge and cut them into squares. Enjoy your crunchy, chocolatey homemade bars!

Notes:

  • If you prefer a sweeter bar, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or any sweetener of your choice to the chocolate and peanut butter mixture.

  • You can substitute the puffed rice cereal with other crispy cereals or granola for a different texture.

  • For a salted twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before refrigerating.

Tips:

  • For extra flavor, try using almond butter instead of peanut butter.

  • These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

  • If you prefer a firmer texture, freeze the bars for a couple of hours before serving.

Servings: This recipe makes about 12-16 bars, depending on how large or small you cut them.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings):

  • Calories: 150

  • Carbs: 14g

  • Protein: 3g

  • Fat: 10g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 4g (or less if sugar-free)

Benefits:

  • Vegan & Dairy-Free: Perfect for those following vegan or dairy-free diets.

  • Quick & Easy: No baking required, and only takes minutes to prepare.

  • Customizable: Can be made gluten-free, sugar-free, or with any nut butter.

Q&A for Recipe:

  • Q: Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter? A: Yes, almond butter works just as well and will give the bars a different flavor.

  • Q: Can I make these bars without chocolate? A: You can, though the chocolate is a key ingredient for flavor. Consider using carob chips or a sugar-free chocolate alternative for a different variation.

  • Q: How long do these bars last? A: They can last up to a week in the fridge or up to a month if stored in the freezer in an airtight container.

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