Rice and Peanut Butter Bars

Make healthy no-bake peanut butter rice bars with simple pantry ingredients. These easy puffed rice bars are made with almond butter, honey, and dairy-free chocolate for a chewy, crunchy snack that’s gluten-free and naturally sweetened. Perfect for meal prep, school lunches, or a quick grab-and-go snack. Ready in minutes and freezer-friendly for long-lasting storage.

These no-bake rice and peanut butter bars are chewy, crunchy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Made with puffed rice, almond butter, and dairy-free chocolate, they’re perfect for a quick snack or healthier dessert.

Ingredients

Bars:

• 3 cups puffed rice
• ⅓ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• ¾ cup creamy almond butter (no added sugar)
• ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup diced peanuts
• ⅓ cup chopped dairy-free chocolate chips

Chocolate Topping:

• ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips
• ½ tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan
   Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
   Add puffed rice to a large mixing bowl.
3. Melt the Wet Ingredients
   In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the coconut oil. Add almond butter and honey, stirring continuously until smooth and well combined.
4. Mix with Puffed Rice
   Pour the warm almond butter mixture over the puffed rice. Use a rubber spatula to gently mix until all rice is evenly coated.
5. Press Into the Pan
   Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use the spatula to press it down firmly and evenly.
6. Add Toppings
   Sprinkle diced peanuts and chopped chocolate chips on top. Press them gently into the mixture to set.
7. Make the Chocolate Drizzle
   In a small bowl, combine the topping chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted (about 1 minute total).
8. Drizzle and Chill
   Drizzle the melted chocolate over the bars in a back-and-forth motion. Place the pan in the freezer for 1 hour.
9. Slice and Serve
   Once firm, lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Let sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then slice into 8 bars.

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Tips

• Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help bars hold their shape.
• For cleaner cuts, warm a sharp knife under hot water and dry before slicing.
• Store bars in the fridge for a firmer texture, or keep at room temp for softer bars.

Variations and Substitutions

• Peanut Butter: Swap almond butter with natural peanut butter if preferred.
• Sweetener: Use maple syrup in place of honey for a vegan option.
• Chocolate: Try white or dark chocolate chips for a twist.
• Add-ins: Mix in shredded coconut, chia seeds, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular rice cereal instead of puffed rice?
Yes, but the texture will be firmer and more compact, like classic crispy rice treats.

Do these need to stay refrigerated?
They’re fine at room temperature but hold their shape better when stored chilled.

How long do they last?
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect as an after-school snack or lunchbox treat.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
• Cut into mini squares and serve as a bite-sized dessert for parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick, no-bake recipe with simple ingredients.
• Naturally sweetened and dairy-free.
• Great for kids and adults alike.
• Ideal for meal prep and on-the-go snacking.