No Bake Homemade Crunch Bars
Ingredients:
3 cups crispy rice cereal
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (ensure they’re sugar-free for a true sugar-free delight)
Optional: You can switch out the chocolate chips for any nut or seed butter of your choice!
Instructions:
Prep Your Pan: Start by lining a square pan with parchment paper. This ensures an easy release once your Crunch Bars are set.
Melt the Basics: In a microwave-safe bowl or over a stove in a saucepan, combine the coconut oil, maple syrup, and chocolate chips. Melt these ingredients together until they form a smooth, unified mixture. Remember, continuous stirring is key to prevent any ingredient from burning!
Introduce the Crunch: Once your wet ingredients are smoothly combined, pour in the crispy rice cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring every bit of cereal gets a luscious coating of the chocolate mixture.
Set and Shape: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into your prepped square pan. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the mixture evenly, pushing it to the edges to form a uniform layer.
Chill Out: Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it set for about 20 minutes. This wait might feel long, but it’s essential to get the perfect crunch!
Slice and Serve: Once set, retrieve your pan and slice your set mixture into bars. They should hold their shape well and present a delightful mix of crunch and chocolatey goodness.
And voilà! Your homemade Crunch Bars are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them as a mid-day snack, a post-dinner treat, or anytime you crave something sweet and crunchy.
Tips and Tricks
- Customization is Key: Feel free to experiment with the recipe! Add in dried fruits, nuts, or seeds for an additional flavor and texture boost. Remember, the kitchen is your playground.
- Storage: Store the Crunch Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, they can also be frozen and then thawed in the fridge before consumption.
- No Microwave? No Problem: If you don’t have a microwave, use a double boiler method to melt the chocolate chips, coconut oil, and maple syrup. This method ensures an even melt without burning the ingredients.
- Sugar Alert: Always check the labels of your chocolate chips if you’re aiming for a sugar-free treat. Some chocolate chips, even the dark ones, might contain added sugars.
- Make it a Gift: These Crunch Bars can be a wonderful handmade gift. Wrap them in parchment paper, tie with a rustic twine, and attach a handwritten note. Your friends and family will surely appreciate the personal touch.
