Name: No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 cups crispy rice cereal; 1/2 cup crushed pretzels; 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for topping, optional)

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If you’re looking for the ultimate sweet-meets-salty, crispy-yet-chewy treat, you’ll fall head over heels for these No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats. This recipe is a total lifesaver when you need a quick dessert fix, a lunchbox surprise, or an after-dinner nibble. With just a handful of pantry staples and zero need to turn on the oven, these bars pack all the nostalgic crunch of childhood snacks with grown-up flavors thanks to creamy peanut butter, crunchy pretzels, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll want to make No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats part of your regular sweets rotation!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats is how each simple ingredient brings its own magic to the mix. Every element has a job to do—whether it’s adding creaminess, crunch, or just the right touch of sweetness—and together, they create a treat that’s truly irresistible.

Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, lending that signature nutty flavor and a luscious, binding texture.
Maple syrup or honey: Natural sweetness with a hint of caramel notes, plus the sticky factor that helps everything hold together.
Vanilla extract: A little splash goes a long way, deepening the flavors and adding warmth.
Salt: Just a pinch brightens up all the flavors and balances out the sweetness.
Crispy rice cereal: This brings the crunch and classic lightness that makes every bite so fun.
Crushed pretzels: For that addictive salty crunch and extra texture contrast.
Mini chocolate chips: Little pockets of chocolatey goodness, both inside and on top for an irresistible finish.

How to Make No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats

Step 1: Melt the Peanut Butter Mixture

Start by grabbing a medium saucepan and adding your creamy peanut butter and maple syrup (or honey). Place the pan over low heat and gently stir, letting the mixture melt together until it’s completely smooth and just warmed through—this should only take about two to three minutes. Don’t rush or crank up the heat; slow and steady ensures the peanut butter doesn’t scorch and everything melds beautifully.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

Once the peanut butter mixture is ready and off the heat, stir in the vanilla extract and salt. This is your moment to infuse the base with a little extra character; the vanilla adds depth, while the salt perks up all the sweet and nutty notes.

Step 3: Mix the Crunchy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal, crushed pretzels, and mini chocolate chips. Give them a quick toss so everything’s evenly dispersed. The chocolate chips might start to melt a little when the warm peanut butter mixture is added, creating fun swirls throughout the bars!

Step 4: Combine and Coat

Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold everything together until the cereal and pretzels are evenly coated and the chocolate chips are dotted throughout. Make sure to work gently so you keep as much of the cereal’s airy crunch as possible.

Step 5: Press and Set

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Transfer the mixture to the pan, then press it down firmly and evenly—don’t be shy here! Packing it tightly ensures the bars hold together nicely once chilled. If you love extra chocolate, sprinkle a few more mini chips on top and press them in lightly.

Step 6: Chill and Slice

Pop the pan in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or until the No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats are firm and set. Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment, slice into squares, and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats

Garnishes

For an extra flourish, try drizzling a little melted chocolate over the top or finishing each square with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. If you want to get fancy, a light dusting of powdered sugar or even a few colorful sprinkles can make these treats party-ready in seconds.

Side Dishes

Pair your No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats with a tall glass of cold milk, a steamy mug of coffee, or even a fruity smoothie for a delightful snack break. They’re also fantastic served alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas for a fun and balanced dessert platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the bars on a rustic wooden board for a casual gathering, or arrange them in individual cupcake liners for a festive look at parties. For lunchbox treats, wrap each square in wax paper and tie with twine. If you’re gifting, layer them in a cookie tin between sheets of parchment for a sweet surprise that travels well.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Storing them chilled helps maintain their firm, chewy texture and keeps the chocolate chips intact. Just layer parchment or wax paper between the bars to prevent sticking.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead of time, these bars freeze like a dream. Place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers, and they’ll keep for up to two months. Thaw them in the fridge for a few hours, or on the counter for about 30 minutes before serving.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these treats, but if you prefer your No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats a little softer, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before digging in. This brings out their creamy, chewy texture and makes the chocolate chips just a bit melty.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add extra nutty texture to your No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats, which can be a delicious twist. Just make sure to stir thoroughly so all the bits get evenly distributed.

Is there a way to make these treats gluten-free?

Yes, just use certified gluten-free pretzels and crispy rice cereal. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s easy to adapt this recipe for anyone avoiding gluten.

Can I substitute the peanut butter with another nut or seed butter?

Definitely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work well. Just use the same amount and look for a creamy, unsweetened variety for the best results.

What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?

No worries! Chop up a chocolate bar into small pieces or use regular chocolate chips if that’s what you have. They’ll melt a bit more when mixed in but will still taste fantastic.

Do No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats need to stay refrigerated?

While they’ll hold up for a couple of hours at room temperature, it’s best to keep them chilled, especially in warm weather. This keeps the bars firm and helps the chocolate chips stay in place.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about whipping up a batch of No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats—no oven, no fuss, just pure joy in every bite. Whether you’re making them for yourself, your family, or to share with friends, these treats are sure to hit the sweet spot. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Crunch Treats Recipe

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4.5 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 16 squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious and easy no-bake peanut butter crunch treats combining creamy peanut butter, maple syrup, crispy rice cereal, pretzels, and chocolate chips for a crunchy, sweet, and satisfying snack or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Dry Ingredients

3 cups crispy rice cereal
1/2 cup crushed pretzels
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for topping, optional)

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Instructions

Combine Peanut Butter and Syrup: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine peanut butter and maple syrup. Stir continuously until smooth and warmed through, about 2–3 minutes.
Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine crispy rice cereal, crushed pretzels, and mini chocolate chips.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Press Into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into an 8×8-inch parchment-lined pan.
Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top and press them in lightly.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.