Satisfy your snack cravings with these irresistibly chewy and crunchy Honey Peanut Squares—a no-bake treat that's as easy to make as it is delicious! Packed with protein-rich unsalted peanuts and crispy rice cereal, these squares are bound together with a luscious honey-sugar-butter mixture for the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. A hint of vanilla and a touch of salt elevate the flavors, creating a wholesome yet indulgent bite-sized snack. Ready in just 20 minutes of prep and cook time combined, these bars are perfect for busy days or packing in lunchboxes. Whether you're looking for a quick midday energy boost or a crowd-pleasing treat to share, these Honey Peanut Squares are guaranteed to deliver a delightful crunch in every bite.
Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to bubble and the sugar is fully dissolved. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Mix until well combined.
Add the unsalted peanuts and rice cereal to the honey mixture. Stir until all the peanuts and cereal are evenly coated with the sticky mixture.
Quickly transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a silicone spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly into an even layer.
Let the mixture cool completely at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or speed up the process by refrigerating it for about 30 minutes.
Once firm, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and slice into 16 squares using a sharp knife.
Store the Honey Peanut Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Calories |
2335 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 153.6 g | 197% | |
| Saturated Fat | 37.7 g | 189% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 93 mg | 31% | |
| Sodium | 830 mg | 36% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 213.3 g | 78% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.9 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 161.9 g | ||
| Protein | 63.6 g | 127% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.9 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 157 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 22.4 mg | 124% | |
| Potassium | 1840 mg | 39% | |
*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.