These simple, one-bowl crunch bars are a quick dessert that comes together in less than 2 minutes of hands-on time. Packed with crunchy nuts and smooth chocolate, they are naturally gluten-free and can easily be customized to be dairy-free, vegan, or sugar-free depending on the ingredients you choose.
Ingredients
• 2 cups high-quality chocolate chips (use dairy-free/sugar-free chips if preferred)
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 1 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped (or any preferred nuts/seeds for crunch)
• 1 cup crisped rice cereal (optional, for extra light crunch)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (helps the chocolate melt smoothly and set firmly)
Instructions
1. Melt the Chocolate Base
In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each interval, until the mixture is completely melted, smooth, and fully combined.
2. Add the Crunch
Fold the chopped roasted peanuts (and crisped rice cereal if using) directly into the melted chocolate mixture. Stir thoroughly with a spatula until all the crunchy bits are completely coated in the chocolate base.
3. Transfer and Flatten
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Pour the chocolate mixture into the pan and use the back of a spoon or a spatula to press it into an even, flat layer, exactly like the solid squares displayed in image_25.png.
4. Chill to Set
Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 to 45 minutes (or in the freezer for 15 minutes) until the bars are completely firm and set.
5. Slice and Serve
Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the chilled chocolate block out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice it into neat, bite-sized squares. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them perfectly crisp and prevent melting.