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The first step in creating your Nutty Delight Crunchy Peanut Butter Rice Bars is melting the wet ingredients. For this recipe, we will combine creamy peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) in a saucepan over low heat. The key to achieving a smooth mixture lies in maintaining low heat and constant stirring. High heat can cause the mixture to scorch and become unpalatable, while inconsistent stirring may lead to lumps.

Crunchy Peanut Butter Rice Bars

Discover the perfect homemade snack with Nutty Delight Crunchy Peanut Butter Rice Bars! These easy-to-make no-bake bars offer a delicious combination of puffed rice, creamy peanut butter, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Customize them with your favorite nuts and mini chocolate chips for extra crunch and flavor. Ideal for busy professionals, parents, or anyone seeking a nutritious treat, these bars are a satisfying, healthy alternative to store-bought options. Enjoy them as a quick breakfast, post-workout boost, or tasty lunchbox addition!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups of puffed rice cereal

1 cup of creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup of granulated brown sugar

1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips

1/4 cup of chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or cashews)

1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pan: Start by lining an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment with non-stick spray or a bit of oil.

    Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the creamy peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and brown sugar together. Stir consistently until the mixture is smooth and well combined, usually about 3-5 minutes. Make sure not to let it boil!

      Add Vanilla and Salt: Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until fully incorporated.

        Mix in Puffed Rice: In a large mixing bowl, add the puffed rice cereal. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the cereal and quickly toss to combine, ensuring all the cereal is evenly coated.

          Incorporate Extras: Once well mixed, fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped nuts. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

            Press into the Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using a spatula or the back of a measuring cup, firmly press the mixture down into an even layer to compact it.

              Chill & Set: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator to cool and set for at least 1 hour. This will help the bars hold their shape when cut.

                Cut into Bars: After the mixture has set, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut into bars or squares of your desired size.

                  Serve & Enjoy: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for an even longer shelf life. These bars make a perfect snack or energy booster!

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