No-Bake Crunch Bars
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
1/2 cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan:
Line an 8×8-inch (or similar size) square pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they set.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, and a pinch of salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a small saucepan, heat the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup) over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the warm nut butter and honey mixture over the dry oat and cereal mixture. Add the vanilla extract and stir well until everything is evenly coated.
5. Add Chocolate Chips:
If you’re using chocolate chips, stir them into the mixture while it’s still warm. This way, the chocolate will slightly melt, creating a delicious chocolatey coating.
6. Press into the Pan:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press it down firmly with the back of a spoon or your hands to ensure it’s tightly packed and even.
7. Chill and Set:
Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for about 2 hours or until the mixture is firm and set.
8. Slice and Serve:
Once the bars are set, remove them from the pan using the edges of the parchment paper. Cut into squares or bars, and enjoy!
Tips:
Sweetener: You can adjust the sweetness by using more or less honey or maple syrup depending on your preference.
Nut Butter: Any nut butter works here. Peanut butter gives a more classic taste, but almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter can be used for variation.
Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
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