15-Minute No-Bake Peanut Butter Chex Bars
These no-bake bars combine the satisfying crunch of Rice Chex cereal with rich, drippy peanut butter and a glossy chocolate topping. The honey adds natural sweetness while coconut oil helps bind everything together, creating bars that hold their shape perfectly. A sprinkle of pretzel bits on top provides extra texture and a hint of salt. Perfect for potlucks, lunch boxes, or when you need a quick treat without turning on the oven. The bars set up beautifully in the refrigerator and slice cleanly into squares.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-natural drippy peanut butter
- ¾ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 cups rice Chexcorn Chex1:1gluten-freecrunchy
Works equally well
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chipsdark chocolate chips1:1richintense
More pronounced chocolate flavor
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- ½ cup pretzel bitschopped nuts1:1crunchynutty
Adds different texture and flavor
Instructions
- 1
Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper
- 2
Heat the peanut butter, honey, coconut oil, and cinnamon in a small saucepan over low heat until melted and glossy
- 3
Remove from heat and combine the peanut butter mixture with Chex in a large bowl until cereal is coated
- 4
Pour mixture into lined pan and firmly press down
- 5
Microwave chocolate chips and coconut oil in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and glossy
- 6
Pour chocolate over pressed Chex and spread evenly with a spatula
- 7
Top with pretzel pieces
- 8
Refrigerate for 2 hours until set
- 9
Cut into squares and serve
Tips
Use natural peanut butter with visible oil separation for the best binding texture
Press the Chex mixture firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling when cutting
Let bars come to room temperature for 5-10 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices
Good to Know
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 1 week
Can be made 2 days ahead and refrigerated
Serve chilled or at room temperature
Common Mistakes
Use firm pressure when pressing mixture to avoid crumbling
Don't overheat chocolate to avoid seizing
Substitutions
Vegan Options
Gluten-Free Swaps
Works equally well
General Alternatives
Adds different texture and flavor
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter works well and adds extra texture to the bars.
How long do these bars need to set?
The bars need at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to set properly before cutting.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, wrap individual bars and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before serving.