These Healthy Crunch Bars are the perfect guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth! Made with crispy rice cereal, peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate, and a touch of maple syrup, they offer the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness that will remind you of the classic Crunch Bar!
before you get started / kelley’s tips
- Add more texture. If you want a little extra texture, try adding a handful of chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to the mix. Almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds work great!
- Use natural peanut butter. For a healthier option, use natural peanut butter that doesn’t have added sugar or oils. It also give the bars a richer flavor.
- Chill for easier cutting. Let the bars cool and set in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps them firm up and hold together better for easy cutting.
Want to save this recipe?
Enter your email below & we'll send it straight to your inbox! You will also receive other new recipes in your inbox weekly!
Ingredients needed
- Crispy Rice Cereal: This light and airy cereal adds the perfect crunch to the bars, reminiscent of the candy Crunch Bars, giving them a satisfying texture without overwhelming the flavor.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The chocolate chips melt perfectly into the bars, providing a decadent sweetness.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: Brings a nutty richness and helps bind the ingredients together for a deliciously indulgent base.
- Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness to the bars. You can also use honey in place of the maple syrup!
- Coconut Oil: A small amount of coconut oil adds a smooth, glossy finish.
how to make healthy crunch bars
- Line a 9 x 5 loaf pan with parchment paper making sure the sides overhang, set aside.
- Add crispy rice to a large bowl and set aside. Add the chocolate chips, peanut butter, maple syrup and coconut oil to a medium saucepan. Cook on medium low heat and stir until melted. (Alternatively you can use the microwave)
- Pour the melted chocolate peanut butter mixture into the bowl with the crispy rice cereal. Toss to coat the rice in the chocolate then transfer to the prepared pan.
- Spread the mixture into an even layer then using the back of a spoon press the mixture down.
- Place in the fridge for about 30-60 minutes or until set and hardened.
- Cut into 8 bars and enjoy!
frequently asked questions
Can I make these nut-free?
Absolutely! Swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini to make these bars nut-free while keeping the creamy texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup if preferred. Keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.
Do I need to refrigerate these?
While refrigeration helps the bars set more quickly, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container if you prefer a softer texture.
Can I freeze these bars?
Definitely! Wrap them individually or store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months—just thaw them for a few minutes before eating.
love guilt-free treats? Try these ones too!
- Healthy Mini Mixed Berry Crisp
- No Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups
- Frozen Cottage Cheese Bark
- Healthier Scotcharoos
- Chocolate Banana Bark
Healthy Crunch Bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal
- 3/4 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Line a 9 x 5 loaf pan with parchment paper making sure the sides overhang, set aside.
- Add crispy rice to a large bowl and set aside. Add the chocolate chips, peanut butter, maple syrup and coconut oil to a medium saucepan. Cook on medium low heat and stir until melted. (Alternatively you can use the microwave)
- Pour the melted chocolate peanut butter mixture into the bowl with the crispy rice cereal.Toss to coat the rice in the chocolate then transfer to the prepared pan.
- Spread the mixture into an even layer then using the back of a spoon press the mixture down.
- Place in the fridge for about 30-60 minutes or until set and hardened.
- Cut into 8 bars and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Did you make this?
I’d love to hear your feedback! Leave a review and make sure to share your pictures on social media! Don’t forget to follow @thechefsavvy.
