Are you tired of boring, store-bought snacks that leave you unsatisfied? Get ready to revolutionize your snacking game with these incredible Homemade Cereal Bars that combine the crunch of Chex cereal, the richness of peanut butter, and the decadence of chocolate chips! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a treat so delicious, your family and friends will be begging you to make them again and again. These no-bake bars are not just a snack; they're a culinary adventure that's easy, quick, and absolutely mouthwatering!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Snack
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 3 cups Chex cereal
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring edges overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and honey. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and well combined (approximately 60-90 seconds total).
- Remove the peanut butter and honey mixture from microwave and let cool for 2-3 minutes to prevent chocolate chips from melting completely.
- Gently fold Chex cereal into the peanut butter-honey mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Mix carefully to avoid crushing the cereal.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and chopped nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing down firmly and evenly with a spatula or clean hands to create a compact layer.
- Refrigerate the pan for 15-20 minutes until the bars are set and firm.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the entire block of cereal bars out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 even rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best texture, let bars sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and prevent chocolate chips from melting too quickly.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to create compact, well-formed bars that hold together perfectly.
- For a variation, try different types of nuts or swap chocolate chips for dried fruit.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for effortless removal and easy cleanup.
- Let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to achieve the ideal texture - not too hard, not too soft.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the bars from drying out.
- For a healthier version, use natural peanut butter and dark chocolate chips.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 5mg
