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No-Bake Chocolate Nut Bars

These no-bake chocolate nut bars are a nostalgic treat that come together with melting chocolate, butter, and crunchy ingredients like nuts and cereal. Once mixed and pressed into a pan, they set up to a firm, glossy finish, offering a satisfying combination of rich chocolate and crispy texture. Perfect for a quick, homemade sweet snack with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips preferably high-quality
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or vegan butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness
  • 2 cups crispy rice cereal or crushed graham crackers
  • optional sea salt flakes or chopped nuts for topping

Equipment

  • 9x9 inch (23x23 cm) pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Spatula
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

  1. Line your 9x9 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each, until smooth and glossy. This should take about 2 minutes total.
  3. Add the butter to the melted chocolate and stir until fully incorporated and the mixture is shiny and smooth. Feel the warmth and smell the rich cocoa aroma.
  4. Mix in the honey or maple syrup, stirring until the mixture is evenly combined and slightly sticky to the touch.
  5. Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal, ensuring each piece is coated with the chocolate mixture. The mixture should look fluffy and hold its shape when pressed.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly, pressing down firmly to create a compact layer with a smooth surface.
  7. If desired, sprinkle sea salt flakes or chopped nuts on top and gently press them into the surface for added flavor and texture.
  8. Allow the bars to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours until firm and set.
  9. Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares with a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
  10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy these rich, crunchy, chocolatey treats whenever cravings hit!

Notes

Feel free to customize these bars with your favorite add-ins like dried fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of white chocolate on top.