Name: Copycat Crunch Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 oz Chocolate Chips; 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal; ¼ tsp kosher salt

Recreate the classic crunch of your favorite treat with this simple homemade recipe. With just three ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delightful chocolate crunch bars that are sure to impress.

Photos of Copycat Crunch Bars Recipe

You may already have chocolate chips and kosher salt in your pantry, but rice krispies cereal could be less common. Make sure to pick up a fresh box of this crispy cereal from your local supermarket to achieve that iconic texture.

Ingredients for Copycat Crunch Bars Recipe

chocolate chips: These provide the rich, smooth chocolate base for the bars. Choose high-quality chips for the best flavor.

rice krispies cereal: Adds the essential crunch to the bars. Ensure you use fresh cereal for optimal texture.

kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the chocolate, adding a slight contrast to the sweetness.

One reader, Halimeda Ervin says:

This copycat crunch bars recipe is fantastic! The bars are perfectly crunchy and the chocolate melts in your mouth. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy. A delightful treat for any occasion!

Halimeda Ervin

Essential Techniques for Making Copycat Crunch Bars

How to line a baking pan: Use parchment paper to line an 8x8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the bars. How to melt chocolate: Use a microwave-safe glass bowl and heat the chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until fully melted. How to fold ingredients: Gently mix the rice krispies cereal into the melted chocolate until fully coated, ensuring even distribution. How to refrigerate properly: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden completely. How to slice without crumbling: Use a very sharp knife to cut the hardened chocolate into bars, which helps avoid crumbling.

How To Make Copycat Crunch Bars

Grab three easy ingredients and start whipping up these crunch bars coated with melted chocolate sprinkled with a dash of salt.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Chill Time: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

24ozchocolate chips,2 bags
4cupsRice Krispies Cereal
¼tspkosher salt,optional

Instructions

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe glass bowl in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until full melted.
Fold in the cereal until full coated then pour into the 8×8-inch baking dish.
Spread the mixture out evenly and sprinkle over the kosher salt.
Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes until the chocolate has completely hardened before slicing with a very sharp knife to avoid crumbling.

Nutrition

Calories: 318.16kcal
Fat: 13.43g
Saturated Fat: 8.24g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.06g
Carbohydrates: 46.27g
Fiber: 1.57g
Sugar: 36.33g
Protein: 3.30g
Cholesterol: 8.50mg
Sodium: 124.13mg
Calcium: 66.24mg
Potassium: 11.01mg
Iron: 3.37mg
Vitamin A: 99.97µg
Vitamin C: 5.91mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Crunch Bars

To ensure the chocolate melts evenly and smoothly, use a microwave-safe glass bowl and heat in 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly after each interval. This prevents the chocolate from burning and helps achieve a glossy finish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Homemade Crunch Bars

Use a double boiler: Melting chocolate on the stove with a double boiler prevents burning and ensures even melting.

Pre-measure ingredients: Have all ingredients measured and ready before starting to streamline the process.

Line the pan ahead: Prepare the baking pan with parchment paper before melting the chocolate to save time.

Use a large bowl: Mixing rice krispies cereal in a large bowl makes it easier to coat evenly and quickly.

Chill in the freezer: Speed up the hardening process by placing the baking dish in the freezer for 10 minutes instead of refrigerating.

Substitute Ingredients For Copycat Crunch Bars Recipe

chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chunks: Dark chocolate chunks provide a richer flavor and can be a healthier option due to higher cocoa content.
chocolate chips - Substitute with milk chocolate chips: Milk chocolate chips offer a sweeter and creamier taste, which can be more appealing to some palates.
rice krispies cereal - Substitute with cornflakes: Cornflakes can provide a similar crunch and texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.
rice krispies cereal - Substitute with quinoa puffs: Quinoa puffs offer a similar texture and are a gluten-free alternative, adding a slight nutty flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it an easy swap.
kosher salt - Substitute with table salt: Table salt can be used in a pinch, though you may need to adjust the quantity slightly due to its finer grain.

How to Beautifully Present Homemade Crunch Bars

Use high-quality chocolate chips: Opt for premium chocolate chips to ensure a rich and smooth texture that will impress the judges.
Incorporate texture contrast: Add a layer of finely crushed rice krispies cereal on top of the melted chocolate before it sets to create a delightful crunch.
Garnish with sea salt flakes: Instead of sprinkling kosher salt, use delicate sea salt flakes for a more refined and visually appealing finish.
Cut into uniform squares: Use a ruler and a very sharp knife to cut the crunch bars into perfectly uniform squares, ensuring a professional presentation.
Serve on a slate platter: Present the crunch bars on a sleek slate platter to enhance the visual appeal and provide a contrast to the rich chocolate.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, place a small piece of edible gold leaf on each crunch bar square.
Pair with a complementary sauce: Serve the crunch bars with a small drizzle of raspberry coulis or a dollop of whipped cream to add a burst of flavor and color.
Use minimalist plating: Keep the presentation clean and minimalist, allowing the crunch bars to be the star of the plate without any unnecessary distractions.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Crunch Bars at Home

8x8-inch baking pan: This is used to shape and set the crunch bars. Lining it with parchment paper ensures easy removal.
Parchment paper: This prevents the chocolate from sticking to the pan, making it easier to remove and slice the bars.
Microwave-safe glass bowl: Essential for melting the chocolate evenly in the microwave without causing it to burn.
Microwave: Used to melt the chocolate in short increments to ensure it doesn't overheat.
Spatula: Useful for folding the rice krispies cereal into the melted chocolate and for spreading the mixture evenly in the pan.
Sharp knife: Necessary for slicing the hardened crunch bars cleanly without causing them to crumble.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the mixture so the chocolate can harden properly.
Measuring cups: Needed to measure out the rice krispies cereal accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the kosher salt precisely.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Crunch Bars

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the copycat crunch bars recipe:

Store the crunch bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra crispy, place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, you can freeze the crunch bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This will help prevent freezer burn and maintain their texture.
To thaw frozen crunch bars, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual bars on low power for 10-15 seconds until they reach the desired temperature and texture.
If you notice any condensation on the crunch bars after thawing, gently pat them dry with a paper towel to maintain their crispiness. Avoid refreezing the bars once they have been thawed, as this can affect their quality and texture.

Interesting Trivia About Crunch Bars

A fun fact about this copycat crunch bars recipe is that it mimics the popular Nestlé Crunch Bar, which was first introduced in 1938. The combination of chocolate and crispy rice cereal creates a delightful texture contrast that has made it a favorite treat for decades.

Is Making Crunch Bars at Home Cost-Effective?

This copycat crunch bars recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With just three ingredients—chocolate chips, rice krispies cereal, and kosher salt—it offers a delightful dessert without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Copycat Crunch Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

This copycat Crunch Bars recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients are chocolate chips and rice krispies cereal, both of which are high in sugar and carbohydrates. The recipe lacks any significant sources of protein, fiber, or essential vitamins and minerals. Consuming these bars in excess could contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and blood sugar imbalances.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use dark chocolate chips with a higher percentage of cocoa (70% or above) to increase the antioxidant content and reduce the sugar
Replace some of the rice krispies cereal with a more nutrient-dense option, such as puffed quinoa or rolled oats
Add a source of healthy fats, like chopped nuts or seeds, to provide more satiety and improve the nutrient profile
Experiment with natural sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, in place of some of the sugar in the chocolate chips
Reduce the overall portion size to promote mindful snacking and prevent overindulgence

Editor's Opinion on This Copycat Crunch Bars Recipe

This recipe for copycat crunch bars is straightforward and effective, making it perfect for a quick homemade treat. The use of chocolate chips and rice krispies cereal creates a delightful texture contrast, while the kosher salt adds a subtle, sophisticated touch. Melting the chocolate in 30-second increments ensures it doesn't burn, and the parchment-lined pan makes for easy removal. Refrigerating for at least 20 minutes is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Overall, it's a simple yet satisfying recipe that delivers on both flavor and texture.

Enhance Your Copycat Crunch Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Berry Parfait: Imagine a dessert that complements your copycat crunch bars with layers of Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey. The creamy texture and tartness of the berries will balance the sweetness of the chocolate perfectly.

Spiced Apple Compote: A warm, cinnamon-infused apple compote can add a delightful contrast to the crunch bars. The apples are cooked until tender and then spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a cozy, autumnal flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.

Minty Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a twist! Combine watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, and a handful of mint leaves. The mint adds a burst of freshness that will cleanse your palate after enjoying the rich crunch bars.

Coconut Lime Sorbet: For a tropical escape, serve a coconut lime sorbet alongside your crunch bars. The creamy coconut and zesty lime create a refreshing and light contrast to the dense, chocolatey goodness of the bars.

Roasted Almonds: Enhance the nutty undertones of your crunch bars with a side of roasted almonds. Lightly salted and roasted to perfection, these nuts add a satisfying crunch and a savory note that complements the sweetness of the chocolate.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Crunch Bars

Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats: Imagine the classic Rice Krispies treat, but with a decadent twist! Melted peanut butter and chocolate come together to create a gooey, crunchy delight that will have everyone asking for seconds.

White Chocolate Raspberry Bark: This elegant dessert combines creamy white chocolate with tart raspberries. Perfect for a quick treat or a fancy party, this bark is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark: Crunchy pretzels, rich caramel, and a sprinkle of sea salt make this bark an irresistible combination of sweet and salty. Perfect for snacking or gifting!

Nutty Chocolate Clusters: A delightful mix of nuts and chocolate, these clusters are both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for a quick snack or a dessert table addition.

S'mores Fudge: Bring the campfire to your kitchen with this rich fudge that combines marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate. It's a nostalgic treat that everyone will love.

Appetizers and Entrées That Complement Crunch Bars

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped spinach. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and baked until golden brown. The result is a creamy, flavorful bite that pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine. These little morsels are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with a hint of garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the juicy, tangy topping creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of elegance to any table.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Chicken Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender pieces of chicken breast with a rich and creamy alfredo sauce. The sauce, made from heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, coats the fettuccine pasta perfectly, creating a luxurious and comforting meal. To add a touch of freshness, consider incorporating broccoli florets or spinach into the dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dash of black pepper for an extra layer of flavor.

Beef Stroganoff: Beef Stroganoff is a hearty and flavorful dish that features tender slices of beef cooked in a savory mushroom and onion sauce. The sauce, enriched with sour cream and beef broth, creates a creamy and tangy base that pairs beautifully with egg noodles or mashed potatoes. For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or Worcestershire sauce. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives to enhance its aromatic profile.

Why trust this Copycat Crunch Bars Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try because it uses simple, high-quality ingredients like chocolate chips and rice krispies cereal. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. The addition of kosher salt enhances the flavor, giving you that perfect balance of sweet and salty. Plus, the quick refrigeration time means you can enjoy your homemade treat in no time.

Share your thoughts on the Copycat Crunch Bars Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this treat even more delicious!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cereal instead of rice krispies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other cereals like cornflakes or puffed rice. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit different.

How do I store the crunch bars?

I usually store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and crunchy for about a week.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of regular chocolate chips?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate. It all depends on your taste preference.

What if I don't have kosher salt?

No worries! You can use regular table salt or sea salt. Just use a little less if you're using table salt since it's finer.

Can I add any other ingredients to the mix?

Sure thing! You can add nuts, dried fruit, or even a bit of peanut butter for extra flavor. Just make sure not to overload it so the bars still hold together well.