Crunchy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, look no further! These Crunchy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are not only easy to make, but they also satisfy those sweet cravings without the need to turn on the oven. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a midnight indulgence, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your home.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– No baking required! Just mix, press, and chill.
– A delightful blend of crunchy cornflakes and creamy peanut butter.
– Rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs perfectly with the nutty taste of peanut butter.
– Quick to prepare—ready in just about 30 minutes (plus chilling time).
– Perfect for meal prep; make them ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup honey
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 3 cups cornflakes

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing the ingredients together.
• Spatula: A spatula will help you mix thoroughly and scrape every bit of goodness.
• 9×9-inch Baking Pan: This will be used for setting the bars—make sure it’s lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the chocolate and butter mixture.
• Refrigerator: To chill and set the bars.

From Start to Finish: Crunchy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out once they are set.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.

Step 3: Mix in Peanut Butter and Honey

Once the chocolate and butter mixture is melted, remove it from the microwave and stir in the creamy peanut butter and honey. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Step 4: Combine with Cornflakes

In a large mixing bowl, add the cornflakes. Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cornflakes and gently fold them together until all the cornflakes are coated evenly.

Step 5: Press into the Pan

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use the spatula to press it down firmly and evenly. This step is crucial for getting nice, solid bars.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm to the touch.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles. Enjoy your Crunchy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Chocolate Chips: Feel free to use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Peanut Butter: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be used as a substitute for those with nut allergies.
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey for a vegan option.
• Cornflakes: If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, use gluten-free cornflakes or puffed rice.

Missteps & Fixes

• Bars are too crumbly: If the mixture is too dry, add a little more peanut butter or honey to help bind it together.
• Chocolate mixture seizes up: If your chocolate mixture hardens too quickly, try adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to help smooth it out.
• Cornflakes are too soft: Make sure to fold the cornflakes gently to avoid crushing them too much.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

These Crunchy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your bars, making them even more delightful. Just keep in mind that the bars may be slightly harder to slice due to the added crunch.

How do I know when the bars are set?

The bars will be firm to the touch and will hold their shape when removed from the pan. If they feel soft, give them more time in the refrigerator.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to add mini marshmallows, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut for additional flavor and texture.

What can I serve with these bars?

These bars are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with extra melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.

You Might Also Like

• Peanut Butter Cookies
• Chocolate Energy Bites
• No-Bake Cheesecake
• Moist Banana Bread

That’s a Wrap

These Crunchy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering, looking for a quick snack, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these bars are your go-to recipe. With their delightful crunch and rich flavor, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a treat that is as satisfying to make as it is to eat!