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Now that you have prepared your peanut butter mixture, it's time to press it into the baking dish. This step is crucial for ensuring that your bars hold together once they are set.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Bars

Discover the joy of making your own Peanut Butter Bliss Crunch Bars with this easy recipe! Perfectly balancing flavor and nutrition, these bars are made with wholesome ingredients like creamy peanut butter, rolled oats, and natural sweeteners. Enjoy a quick and satisfying snack that's ideal for busy days or post-workout energy boosts. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for an extra crunch! Dive into a nutritious homemade treat that will keep you fueled throughout the day.

Ingredients
  

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup puffed rice cereal

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)

1/2 cup chopped nuts or seeds (such as walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Base: In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the creamy peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) over low heat. Continuously stir the mixture for 2-3 minutes until it's smooth and thoroughly blended. Once achieved, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

    Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, puffed rice cereal, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sea salt. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure an even distribution.

      Mix Together: Once the peanut butter mixture has cooled slightly, pour it over the combined dry ingredients in the bowl. Add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated and well incorporated.

        Add Optional Ingredients: If you are using nuts or seeds, gently fold them into the mixture now to add an extra layer of crunch.

          Press Into a Pan: Prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing for a bit of overhang on the sides for easy removal. Transfer the mixture into the lined dish and use a spatula or your hands to firmly press it down into an even layer.

            Chill and Set: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and allow the bars to chill for approximately 1-2 hours, or until they are firm to the touch.

              Drizzle with Chocolate (optional): If you'd like to add a chocolate drizzle, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until completely smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the set bars.

                Cut and Serve: Once the bars are firm, remove them from the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles according to your preferred size. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week for a convenient snack.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                    - Serving Suggestion: Enjoy these bars as a nutritious snack or a quick breakfast on-the-go. Pair them with a glass of almond milk or your favorite smoothie for a complete treat!