Craving a sweet, crunchy, and chocolatey treat that you can make right in your kitchen with minimal effort and ingredients? These homemade crispy chocolate bars are the perfect solution. Combining the rich, velvety taste of chocolate with the light crunch of crispy rice cereal, this no-bake dessert is an all-time favorite for kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re preparing a weekend snack, a party dessert, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars offer a simple, satisfying, and delicious option. Best of all, they require no oven time and are easily customizable. Made with pantry staples, this recipe delivers flavor and texture that rivals any store-bought treat, all while being 100% homemade.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond butter for a twist)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 3 cups crispy rice cereal
– A pinch of sea salt (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, for extra crunch)
– 1/4 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for added sweetness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
- Melt the chocolate: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips, butter, and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until everything is melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the mixture over a double boiler on the stovetop.
- Add vanilla: Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the vanilla extract. This enhances the flavor and gives the bars a homemade warmth.
- Mix in cereal: Add the crispy rice cereal to the chocolate mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until all the cereal is fully coated and evenly distributed. Be careful not to crush the cereal as you mix.
- Optional add-ins: At this stage, fold in any extras like chopped nuts, marshmallows, or a pinch of sea salt for a salty-sweet contrast. These additions can elevate the texture and taste of the bars significantly.
- Transfer to pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to press the mixture down evenly into the corners and edges of the pan. Pack it tightly to help the bars hold their shape once cooled.
- Chill to set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours, or until the bars are fully set and firm to the touch. If you’re short on time, you can freeze them for 30 minutes.
- Slice and serve: Once the bars are set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
- Store properly: Store the crispy chocolate bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
- Tips for variation: Try using dark chocolate for a more intense cocoa flavor or add a swirl of caramel on top before chilling. You can even sprinkle some shredded coconut or drizzle white chocolate for a festive look.