Chocolate Cereal Bars Recipe | Easy No-Bake Snack Bars

Chocolate Cereal Bars Recipe – If you’re craving a quick, sweet, and crunchy snack that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare, Chocolate Cereal Bars Recipe is the perfect choice. These no-bake treats combine the irresistible richness of chocolate with the crunch of cereal, creating a snack bar that works for all occasions—whether it’s a school lunchbox, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even a light dessert.

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Unlike store-bought bars, this homemade version lets you control the ingredients, making them healthier and customizable. You can keep them classic with just cereal and chocolate, or elevate them with add-ins like peanut butter, dried fruits, seeds, or nuts for extra flavor and nutrition.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Active Time: 10 minutes

• Resting/Chill Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

 Cuisines

• Global

• American-inspired

• Fusion Snack

 Course

• Snack

• Dessert

• Kids’ Treat

Servings

• Makes about 12 bars

 Calories

• About 210 calories per serving

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl

• Medium saucepan (or microwave-safe bowl)

• Spatula

• 9×9-inch square baking pan

• Parchment paper

• Knife for cutting bars

 Ingredients

• 4 cups crispy rice cereal (or any cereal of choice)

• 1 ½ cups chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)

• ½ cup peanut butter (optional, for flavor & binding)

• 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for sweetness & stickiness)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt

• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or sprinkles

Nutrition

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210 kcal
Carbohydrates	28 g
Protein	3 g
Fat	10 g
Saturated Fat	5 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	16 g
Sodium	90 mg
Calcium	40 mg
Iron	2 mg

Instructions

1. Prepare the pan

   • Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides for easy lifting.

2. Melt the base mixture

   • In a saucepan over low heat (or in the microwave in short bursts), melt together chocolate chips, peanut butter, and honey/maple syrup until smooth. Stir continuously to avoid burning.

3. Add vanilla & salt

   • Once melted, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for balance.

4. Mix with cereal

   • Place the cereal in a large bowl. Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal and stir gently until all pieces are coated evenly.

5. Transfer to a pan

   • Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula (or lightly greased hands) to press it down firmly into an even layer.

6. Optional toppings

   • Sprinkle with nuts, coconut, or dried fruit while still soft, pressing them lightly into the mixture.

7. Chill & set

   • Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm and set.

8. Cut & serve

   • Lift the block out of the pan using the parchment paper, place it on a cutting board, and slice into 12 even bars.

 Flavor Profile of Chocolate Cereal Bars

• Sweet & Chocolaty: Deep cocoa flavor with a satisfying sweetness.

• Crunchy Texture: Crisp cereal provides a delightful crunch.

• Nutty Undertones: If peanut butter or nuts are added, they enhance richness.

• Balanced Sweetness: Honey/maple syrup adds a natural sweetness.

• Customizable Layers: Can range from indulgent (with milk chocolate) to healthier (with dark chocolate & seeds).

 Tips for the Best Chocolate Cereal Bars

• Use dark chocolate for a less sweet, antioxidant-rich version.

• Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or protein powder for a nutritional boost.

• For a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter.

• Always press the mixture firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling.

• If you prefer softer bars, reduce the chill time slightly. For firmer bars, let them rest longer in the fridge.

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

 Conclusion

The Chocolate Cereal Bars Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create a truly delightful treat. With its rich chocolate coating and irresistible crunch, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and health. The no-bake method makes it beginner-friendly, while endless customization options ensure you never get bored with making it.