Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
Indulge in the ultimate sweet treat with these Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars! Inspired by the beloved flavor combination of chocolate and peanut butter, these bars are a delightful nod to classic candy bars like Butterfingers. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the Rice Krispies intertwined with a rich, creamy peanut butter mixture. Topped with a generous layer of melted chocolate chips, they are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings at any time. Whether for a party, a school treat, or just an afternoon snack, these bars promise to be a crowd-pleaser!
24
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
corn syrup
1 cup (none)
sugar
1 cup (none)
smooth peanut butter
1 cup (none)
Rice Krispies
6 cups (none)
mini chocolate chips
2 cups, divided (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by lining a 13 x 9 inch baking pan with aluminum foil, ensuring that the foil hangs over the edges slightly for easy removal. Lightly spray the foil with vegetable spray to prevent sticking.
2
In a 3-quart saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a full boil.
3
Once boiling, remove the pan from heat. Immediately stir in the smooth peanut butter, mixing thoroughly until the peanut butter is completely melted and well incorporated.
4
Add the 6 cups of Rice Krispies to the saucepan, gently folding them into the peanut butter mixture until each piece is evenly coated.
5
Stir in 1 cup of the mini chocolate chips. Don't worry if the chocolate chips begin to melt; this will add to the deliciousness.
6
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to press the mixture evenly into the pan. To ensure a compact, even layer, wet your hands slightly to help press it down without sticking.
7
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mini chocolate chips evenly over the top. Press them down gently to embed into the surface.
8
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. To cut, lift the bars out of the pan using the overlapping foil. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean cuts into squares.
9
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars?
They are a sweet treat inspired by the flavor of Butterfingers, made with Rice Krispies, peanut butter, and chocolate.
Are these bars no-bake?
Yes, these are no-bake dessert bars prepared on the stovetop by boiling the syrup mixture.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe makes approximately 24 servings when cut into squares.
What type of peanut butter should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of smooth peanut butter for a creamy texture.
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead?
While the recipe specifies smooth, chunky peanut butter could be used if you prefer extra peanut pieces in your bars.
What size baking pan is needed for this recipe?
You will need a standard 13 x 9 inch baking pan.
How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Line the pan with aluminum foil, ensuring it hangs over the edges, and lightly spray the foil with vegetable spray.
What are the main ingredients in the base mixture?
The base is made of sugar, corn syrup, smooth peanut butter, and Rice Krispies cereal.
Do I need to boil the sugar and corn syrup?
Yes, heat the mixture over medium heat while stirring constantly until it reaches a full boil.
How many ingredients are required in total?
This recipe requires only 5 main ingredients: corn syrup, sugar, smooth peanut butter, Rice Krispies, and mini chocolate chips.
When do I add the peanut butter to the mixture?
Remove the pan from the heat once the sugar mixture boils, then immediately stir in the peanut butter.
What kind of cereal is used for the crunch?
The recipe uses 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal for its signature crunch.
Can I substitute Rice Krispies with another cereal?
While designed for Rice Krispies, other puffed rice cereals should work as a substitute.
How many chocolate chips are used in the entire recipe?
A total of 2 cups of mini chocolate chips are used, divided into two parts.
Why are some chocolate chips stirred into the warm mixture?
Adding 1 cup of chips to the warm mixture adds extra richness as they begin to melt into the cereal.
How do I press the mixture into the pan without it sticking to my hands?
Wet your hands slightly before pressing the mixture into the pan to keep it from sticking to your skin.
How do I apply the chocolate topping?
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mini chocolate chips over the top and press them down gently into the surface.
Do I need to melt the chocolate chips for the topping separately?
No, you simply sprinkle them on top and press them in while the bars are still warm and setting.
How long do the bars need to cool?
The bars should be allowed to cool completely at room temperature before you attempt to cut them.
How do I remove the bars from the pan for easy cutting?
Use the overlapping foil edges to lift the entire block of bars out of the pan once they are cool.
What tools are best for cutting these bars?
A sharp knife or a pizza cutter works best for making clean cuts into even squares.
What is the best way to store leftover bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture.
Are these bars suitable for children?
Yes, they are a kid-friendly snack that is perfect for school treats or afternoon snacks.
Can I serve these at a party?
Absolutely, these decadent bars are designed to be a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
What is the flavor profile of these bars?
They offer a rich, creamy peanut butter flavor combined with sweet chocolate and a satisfying cereal crunch.
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
Yes, but mini chips are easier to press into the surface and melt more uniformly into the mixture.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is an easy, no-bake recipe with simple instructions and a short list of ingredients.
What category of dessert do these fall into?
These are categorized as Bar Cookies.
Do I need any special equipment to make these?
You only need a 3-quart saucepan, a 13 x 9 inch pan, aluminum foil, and a spatula.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but you will need to use two 13 x 9 pans or a much larger sheet pan.