Healthy No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars

Introduction

These Healthy No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, chocolatey, and naturally sweet. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, crisped rice cereal, peanut butter, and dark chocolate, they’re a nutrient-dense treat you can feel great about. With no baking required and minimal prep time, these bars are ideal for quick snacks, lunchbox treats, or healthier desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Completely no-bake and ready in minutes
  • Uses clean, simple ingredients—no refined sugar or processed additives
  • Naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free oats
  • Crunchy base topped with creamy peanut butter fudge and rich dark chocolate
  • Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly
  • Great for kids and adults alike
  • Customizable with add-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit

Ingredients

For the Crunchy Base

  • 2 cups (60 g) crisped rice cereal
  • 1 1/4 cups (110 g) rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) maple syrup
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup (130 g) peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Peanut Butter Fudge Layer

  • 3/4 cup (190 g) peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) coconut oil
  • Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups (260 g) dark chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons (28 g) coconut oil

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crunchy Base

In a large bowl, mix together the crisped rice cereal and rolled oats.
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the maple syrup, coconut oil, and peanut butter, stirring until melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Pour the warm mixture over the cereal-oat mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Press firmly into the prepared baking pan to form a compact base.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Fudge Layer

In a saucepan on low heat, melt together the peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, and salt until smooth.
Pour over the crunchy base and spread evenly with a spatula.
Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the chocolate topping.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Topping

Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil in a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in 20-second intervals.
Stir until smooth and glossy.
Pour over the chilled peanut butter layer and smooth the top.

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Refrigerate the bars for 1–2 hours, or until fully set.
Lift out of the pan using the parchment overhang and slice into squares or bars.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use natural, creamy peanut butter for smoother layers.
  • Press the crunchy base firmly to help the bars hold their shape.
  • For cleaner slices, warm a sharp knife under hot water and wipe between cuts.
  • If using microwave for melting chocolate, heat in short intervals to avoid scorching.
  • Add a handful of crushed peanuts or chia seeds for extra texture.
  • Store bars chilled to maintain firmness, especially in warm weather.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Swap peanut butter with almond or cashew butter.
  • Replace maple syrup with honey or agave.
  • Use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter version.
  • Add chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut to the base.
  • Make it vegan by choosing vegan dark chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy as a healthy dessert, afternoon snack, or post-workout treat.
  • Pair with a hot latte, iced coffee, or herbal tea.
  • Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or sharing at potlucks.
  • Serve chilled for the best crunch and texture.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 1–2 weeks.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Reheating: Not needed—these bars should be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Per Bar (approx. 50g):

  • Calories: 230 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Total Fat: 15g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 45mg
  • Potassium: 110mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Vitamin A: 0 IU
  • Vitamin C: 0mg
  • Calcium: 15mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients.

FAQ

Can I use puffed quinoa instead of rice cereal?
Yes, puffed quinoa works well and adds extra nutrition.

Can I replace coconut oil with butter?
Yes, butter may be used, but bars will be slightly softer at room temperature.

Do these bars hold up without refrigeration?
They soften at warm temperatures, so keep them chilled until serving.

Can I add protein powder?
Yes. Add 1–2 scoops to the base mixture and increase maple syrup slightly if it becomes dry.

Can I make these nut-free?
Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free version.

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