These No-Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars are the ideal blend of creamy peanut butter, crispy cereal, and a touch of sweetness. The coconut oil adds a subtle richness, while the maple syrup creates the perfect natural sweetness. Whether you opt for the chocolate chip topping or not, the bars are absolutely satisfying.
They’re perfect for a snack or a quick breakfast. These bars are incredibly versatile, so feel free to add extras like dried fruit, nuts, or seeds to make them your own. No matter how you tweak them, these peanut butter cereal bars are always a hit. They’re not only easy to make but also packed with flavor!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups crispy rice cereal
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1 cup peanut butter
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1/2 cup maple syrup
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1/4 cup coconut oil
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
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Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
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In a medium saucepan, heat the peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil over medium heat until fully melted and combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
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Pour the crispy rice cereal into a large bowl. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the cereal and stir until evenly coated.
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Press the mixture into the prepared pan in an even layer. If desired, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the top and gently press them into the bars.
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Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until set. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 12 squares
The Appeal of No-Bake Treats
One of the biggest draws of this recipe is the fact that it requires no baking. This makes it ideal for busy individuals, beginners in the kitchen, or anyone who doesn’t want to turn on the oven. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious, no-fuss treat in minutes. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the delicious taste, makes these peanut butter cereal bars a perfect choice for those times when you want something quick and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Right Amount of Sweetness and Crunch
The combination of peanut butter and crispy rice cereal provides both texture and flavor that work perfectly together. The peanut butter gives a creamy, slightly savory taste, while the rice cereal adds a delightful crunch. To sweeten the deal, maple syrup is used to give these bars just the right amount of sweetness, without being overly sugary. Additionally, coconut oil adds a smooth and subtle richness, making every bite melt in your mouth.
For those who enjoy a little extra indulgence, you can easily add mini chocolate chips to the bars, adding a touch of chocolatey goodness to complement the peanut butter flavor. The optional chocolate topping adds an extra layer of sweetness and a contrast in texture, making the bars even more tempting.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Days
These bars are not only quick to prepare but also make for great meal prep. They can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, making them a handy snack to have on hand throughout the week. Whether you’re in need of a grab-and-go breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, these peanut butter cereal bars are easy to grab and eat on the move.
The no-bake nature of these bars also makes them great for hot weather. You don’t have to worry about turning on the oven and heating up your kitchen. Simply mix the ingredients, press them into a pan, refrigerate, and enjoy. This makes them a perfect summer snack or a quick dessert for a picnic or gathering.
Healthy and Customizable Ingredients
What makes these bars even better is their versatility. While the basic recipe is already quite healthy, there’s room for modification depending on your dietary preferences. For example, if you prefer a plant-based version, you can easily substitute honey with maple syrup to make it fully vegan. You can also opt for gluten-free cereal to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
The recipe can be tailored to suit a variety of dietary restrictions or preferences. For instance, you can experiment with different nut butters like almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for those with peanut allergies. Similarly, you can add extra ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or dried fruit for added nutrition and flavor.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars: A Sweet Snack for Any Occasion
These bars can be enjoyed as a quick snack or even as a simple dessert. They are perfect for kids and adults alike, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy. Whether you make them for yourself or share them with friends and family, these bars are sure to be a hit. They’re not only delicious but also easy to store and keep for a few days, which makes them perfect for busy weeks or as a quick and tasty homemade treat.
How to Store No-Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars
For the best results, store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their firm texture and ensures that they stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to make a larger batch, you can even freeze them for up to a month, making them perfect for long-term storage. Just be sure to let them thaw for a few minutes before eating.
Conclusion: Why You Should Make These Peanut Butter Cereal Bars
These no-bake peanut butter cereal bars are an easy, delicious, and customizable treat that offers the perfect combination of sweetness and crunch. They’re ideal for anyone who loves peanut butter and wants a quick, satisfying snack without the hassle of baking. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a wholesome snack that’s perfect for busy days, meal prepping, or indulging in a sweet treat.
These bars are not only delicious but also versatile, making them an excellent option for people with different dietary preferences. Whether you choose to keep them simple or add extra ingredients like chocolate chips or dried fruit, these peanut butter cereal bars can be tailored to suit your tastes. So, if you’re looking for a snack that’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion, these no-bake peanut butter cereal bars are a must-try!