Table of Contents
Description
These No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars are rich, crunchy, and easy to make—no oven needed! Perfect for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Introduction
If you love chocolate and peanut butter together, you’re about to meet your new favorite dessert. These No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars are everything a sweet treat should be—rich, creamy, crunchy, and unbelievably easy to make. No oven, no complicated steps, and no waiting around for baking times. Just simple ingredients and big flavor.
This is the kind of easy recipe that saves the day when you need a last-minute dessert, a lunchbox treat, or a crowd-pleasing party snack. With a buttery peanut butter base and a smooth chocolate topping, every bite delivers the perfect balance of sweet and salty goodness. Plus, the satisfying crunch makes these bars totally addictive.
Whether you’re making dessert for family night, bringing something sweet to a potluck, or just craving a homemade treat without the hassle, these bars are a win. They’re approachable for beginners, loved by kids, and perfect for busy days when you still want something homemade. Once you try them, you’ll understand why no-bake desserts are such a game-changer 🍫🥜.
Recipe Equipment
To keep things simple and stress-free, here’s what you’ll need:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
- Rubber spatula or spoon
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Refrigerator
Recipe Stat Sheet (Like Excel)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Chill Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Servings | 12 bars |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Method | No-Bake |
| Cuisine | American |
| Best For | Dessert, Snack, Parties |
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Crunch Layer
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Chocolate Topping
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or butter
Why These Ingredients Work
Peanut butter provides rich flavor and structure, while crispy rice cereal adds the perfect crunch. Chocolate and coconut oil melt smoothly, creating a glossy, sliceable topping.
Ingredient Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture.
- Natural peanut butter works, but stir it well before using.
- Honey gives a classic sweetness, while maple syrup adds deeper flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate balances the sweetness, but milk or dark chocolate works too.
- Coconut oil helps the chocolate set with a clean snap.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides. This makes lifting and slicing the bars super easy later.
Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Base
In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. The mixture should look glossy and thick.
Step 3: Add the Crunch
Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal. Mix until every piece is coated, creating a crunchy, golden base.
Step 4: Press Into the Pan
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
In a saucepan over low heat (or microwave in short bursts), melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together until smooth and silky.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate Layer
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base. Spread evenly to cover every corner.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until fully set. Once firm, lift out and slice into bars.
Serving Suggestions
These No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars are incredibly versatile:
- Serve chilled for a firm, clean bite
- Pair with coffee or milk for a cozy treat
- Add to dessert platters for parties
- Pack into lunchboxes or picnic baskets
- Drizzle with extra melted chocolate for presentation
For extra flair, sprinkle flaky sea salt or crushed peanuts on top before chilling.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a new flavor.
- Add mini chocolate chips into the base for extra chocolatey bites.
- Mix in shredded coconut for texture.
- For a firmer bar, chill overnight before slicing.
- Store bars layered with parchment to prevent sticking.
These bars are easy to customize, making them perfect for experimenting with flavors your family loves.
Storage Information
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw slightly before serving.
- Room Temperature: Best enjoyed chilled, especially in warm weather.
Nutrition Facts (Per Bar – Estimated)
- Calories: ~240
- Fat: ~14g
- Carbohydrates: ~26g
- Protein: ~6g
Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients used.
These No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars prove that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for busy days, sweet cravings, or sharing with friends and family. Give them a try, snap a photo, and let me know how they turned out! Don’t forget to share this easy favorite with fellow chocolate lovers 🍫✨.