These Homemade Crunch Bars are an easy and indulgent treat that combines creamy peanut butter, smooth chocolate, and crispy rice cereal. With just a few simple ingredients, these bars come together quickly and provide a delightful crunch in every bite. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family, these homemade bars are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

2 cups chocolate chips
1 cup peanut butter
2 cups crispy rice cereal

Directions

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Stir in the crispy rice cereal until the cereal is fully coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.
Press the mixture into a lined 9×9-inch pan, ensuring it is evenly spread.
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour, or until it has fully set.
Once set, cut the mixture into bars and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including refrigeration time)

Variations

Add-ins: Feel free to customize these bars with your favorite add-ins such as mini marshmallows, dried fruit, or chopped nuts.
Nut Butter Alternatives: If you don’t have peanut butter or prefer a different flavor, almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter would work well as substitutes.
Chocolate Options: Use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the Crunch Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be kept at room temperature for a couple of days.
Freezing: These bars freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours.
Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need for reheating.

10 FAQs

Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of crunchy? Yes, you can use smooth peanut butter if you prefer a creamier texture without the extra crunch.
Can I make these bars vegan? Yes, to make them vegan, use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based peanut butter.
Can I use a different type of cereal? While crispy rice cereal works best for the crunch, you can use other cereals such as corn flakes or even oats for a different texture.
Do I have to refrigerate the bars? Yes, refrigeration is needed to help the bars set and hold their shape. They may become too soft at room temperature.
Can I make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
How do I make sure the chocolate and peanut butter melt smoothly? Heat the mixture in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring each time. This method prevents overheating and ensures a smooth consistency.
How long can I store the bars? These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or at room temperature for a few days.
Can I add chocolate chips directly to the mixture instead of melting them? It’s best to melt the chocolate chips for a smooth texture, but you can add chocolate chips directly for a chunkier bar if desired.
Can I use different flavored chocolate? Yes! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate for a different flavor.
Can I freeze the Crunch Bars? Yes, these bars freeze well. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Conclusion

Homemade Crunch Bars are a simple yet delicious treat that comes together in minutes, offering a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or a homemade snack to enjoy throughout the week, these bars are an excellent option. With easy-to-find ingredients and endless customization possibilities, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!