Homemade Crunch Bars (Better Than Store-Bought!)
If you’re craving the classic crispy, chocolatey CRUNCH bar but want a version that’s healthier, richer, and incredibly easy to make… this recipe is for you! These
Homemade Crunch Bars use only
5 simple ingredients, require ZERO baking, and come together in just minutes.
They’re vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, kid-friendly, and taste even better than the store-bought kind.
Perfect for meal prep, lunchbox snacks, party treats, or late-night cravings — these bars stay crispy, crunchy, and delicious for weeks!
Ingredients
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (vegan or regular)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond/sunflower butter)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (keto syrup optional)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (or grass-fed butter)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl or stove pan
- Rubber spatula
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
How to Make Homemade Crunch Bars
Follow these easy no-bake steps to create perfectly crispy, chocolatey crunch bars every time.
- Prepare your pan: Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
- Mix the crispy ingredients: Add the crispy rice cereal to a large mixing bowl.
- Make the chocolate coating: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, coconut oil, and maple syrup.
Heat in 20–30 second intervals until melted, stirring between each heating.
- Combine: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the crispy rice cereal and mix until everything is fully coated.
- Transfer to the pan: Spread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Press down gently with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Slice and enjoy: Once set, lift out using parchment paper and cut into bars.
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezer: Wrap each bar in parchment and store in a freezer bag for up to 6 months.
Tips for Perfect Crunch Bars
- Do not overheat the chocolate mixture — it can burn quickly.
- Press the mixture firmly for tightly packed bars.
- For extra crunch, add crushed pretzels or toasted nuts.
- For thicker bars, use a smaller dish.
- For a gourmet finish, drizzle melted chocolate on top before chilling.
These bars are everything you love about the classic candy—crispy, chocolatey, sweet—without the preservatives or junk ingredients. Once you try them, you’ll never want store-bought again!
