Indulge in the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and chocolaty goodness with these Chocolate Crunch Peanut Butter Treats. This no-bake dessert combines melted semi-sweet chocolate chips, velvety peanut butter, and a touch of vanilla for a rich flavor base, while crispy rice cereal adds an irresistible crunch to every bite. A hint of powdered sugar sweetens the mix, and an optional sprinkle of sea salt creates a delightful sweet-savory contrast. Ready in just 15 minutes of prep and cook time, these easy-to-make squares are chilled to perfection and ideal for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings. Perfectly portable and freezer-friendly, these treats are a must-have for chocolate and peanut butter lovers.
Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and unsalted butter.
Microwave the mixture in 30-second increments, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate and butter are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. This should take about 1.5 to 2 minutes total.
Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until fully incorporated. The mixture will thicken slightly as you mix.
Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal, ensuring every piece is well-coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly using a spatula. For a smoother finish, press down lightly with the back of the spatula.
Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt evenly over the top for a sweet-salty contrast.
Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm and set.
Once chilled, lift the treats out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into 16 squares or your desired serving size.
Store the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Calories |
4811 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 240.5 g | 308% | |
| Saturated Fat | 92.7 g | 464% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 124 mg | 41% | |
| Sodium | 3877 mg | 169% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 630.3 g | 229% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 31.8 g | 114% | |
| Total Sugars | 265.4 g | ||
| Protein | 100.7 g | 201% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 161 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 53.8 mg | 299% | |
| Potassium | 1864 mg | 40% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.