There Are Some Treats You Just Might Want to Know How to Make
I’ve always loved easy, no-bake recipes. As a kid and later as a mother, rice crispy squares were a staple—quick, simple, and a crowd-pleaser. But over time, I became more conscious of the ingredients I used, moving away from processed foods like marshmallows. I wanted to create treats that were just as fun but with healthier ingredients. That’s where this Chocolate and Peanut Butter Rice Bar recipe shines. It has all the crunchy, sweet goodness of the original but skips the processed ingredients. Plus, it’s no-bake, which is perfect when you’re short on time or don’t want to use the oven. It’s an indulgent yet wholesome treat that I feel great about sharing with family and friends.
Did You Know?
The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a match made in heaven, and it has a fascinating history. This pairing became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, thanks to the rise of candy bars and treats that featured both ingredients. Peanut butter adds a creamy, salty balance to the sweetness of chocolate, creating a flavor profile that is universally loved. In our Chocolate and Peanut Butter Rice Bars, this classic duo is complemented by the crunchy texture of puffed rice, making it a delicious and satisfying treat. The bars have a beautiful layered look with a rich, glossy chocolate topping. The taste is a perfect blend of sweet and salty, with a satisfying crunch in every bite. Enjoy this timeless combination in a vegan-friendly, no-bake format!
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups puffed rice cereal
- 1 cup dairy free chocolate chips ( or for non vegan - dark chocolate chips)
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions:
Prepare the Base: Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
Melt the Peanut Butter Mixture (Stovetop Method): In a saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup (or agave nectar), and coconut oil. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Personal Tip: Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan and burning. This will help keep the flavor smooth and rich.
Combine with Puffed Rice: In a large mixing bowl, add the puffed rice cereal. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the cereal and stir until all the cereal is evenly coated.
Personal Tip: Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure every piece of cereal is well-coated for the best texture.
Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly and evenly.
Personal Tip: To prevent sticking, lightly grease your hands or the spatula with a bit of coconut oil before pressing down the mixture.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping (Stovetop Method): Set up a double boiler by filling a medium saucepan with about an inch of water and bringing it to a simmer over medium heat. Place a heatproof bowl on top of the saucepan, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Add the dairy-free chocolate chips to the bowl. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Personal Tip: Ensure the water in the saucepan does not touch the bottom of the bowl to avoid overheating the chocolate, which can cause it to seize.
Top and Chill: Pour the melted chocolate over the puffed rice mixture in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is firm.
Personal Tip: Allow the bars to chill fully before cutting to ensure clean slices and prevent the layers from separating.
Cut and Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 16 squares. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Personal Tip: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars, and wipe the blade clean between cuts for neat, even slices.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories, 200; Fat, 12g; Saturated Fat, 6g; Carbohydrates, 22g; Fiber, 2g; Sugars, 12g; Protein, 4g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money:
- Bulk Buying: Purchase puffed rice cereal, peanut butter, and chocolate chips in bulk. This reduces the cost per unit and ensures you have plenty of ingredients for future recipes.
- Homemade Nut Butters: If peanut butter is expensive, consider making your own at home using a food processor and roasted peanuts. This can be more cost-effective and allows you to control the ingredients.
- Reusable Baking Tools: Invest in reusable silicone baking mats and parchment paper sheets. These tools are environmentally friendly and save money over time compared to disposable options.
- Energy Efficiency: Melt the peanut butter mixture and chocolate using the microwave instead of the stove to save on energy costs. Just be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Smart Storage: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week, providing a ready-to-eat snack anytime.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If coconut oil is unavailable or too expensive, use a mix of vegetable oil and a small amount of plant-based milk for the base. This can provide a similar texture and flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different nut butters like almond or cashew butter to add variety to your bars without additional cost.
- DIY Sweeteners: Make your own maple syrup alternative by dissolving equal parts sugar and water, then adding a touch of molasses for flavor.
- Learning and Sharing: Join online vegan cooking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community.
- Creative Add-Ins: Enhance the flavor and nutrition of your bars by adding dried fruits, seeds, or nuts. These add-ins provide extra vitamins, minerals, and a delightful texture.
By following these tips, you can create delicious and nutritious Vegan Chocolate and Peanut Butter Rice Bars that are both wholesome and budget-friendly. Enjoy these no-bake treats with your family and friends!
Let's Learn About Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips
Dairy-free chocolate chips are a great option for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to avoid dairy in their diet. Made without milk solids or milk fat, these chocolate chips rely on ingredients like cocoa butter, sugar, and cocoa solids. They often provide the same rich, chocolatey flavor as traditional chocolate chips, making them perfect for baking or snacking.
When choosing dairy-free chocolate chips, it’s important to read labels carefully. Look for brands that explicitly state they are dairy-free or vegan. Some common brands include Enjoy Life, Lily's, and Hu Kitchen, all of which are free from milk and other common allergens.
One thing to watch for is cross-contamination in the manufacturing process. Some brands may be processed in facilities that also handle dairy products, so always check for "may contain traces of milk" warnings if you have a severe allergy.
Dairy-free chocolate chips come in different varieties such as semi-sweet, dark chocolate, or even unsweetened. Some brands also offer chips sweetened with natural alternatives like stevia, making them a great option for those following a low-sugar or keto diet.
Whether you're making cookies, melting them for fondue, or just sprinkling them over ice cream, dairy-free chocolate chips are a versatile and delicious option for anyone avoiding dairy.