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No-Bake Chocolate Rice Bars

These no-bake chocolate rice bars are a nostalgic treat that come together quickly without any heat. Made with crispy rice cereal coated in rich melted chocolate and butter, they develop a crunchy exterior with a chewy interior. The bars have a glossy appearance and a satisfying bite, perfect for a quick sweet fix.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g dark chocolate chopped or in chips
  • 50 g unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt optional, for topping
  • 3 cups rice cereal puffed rice or rice puffs

Equipment

  • 20x20 cm (8x8 inch) pan
  • Rubber spatula
  • Double boiler or heatproof bowl and saucepan
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Line your pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
  2. Set up a double boiler or place a heatproof bowl over a saucepan with simmering water. Add chopped dark chocolate and butter to the bowl.
  3. Gently stir the mixture as it melts, watching for a glossy, smooth texture with no lumps. This should take about 5-7 minutes, and you'll smell a rich chocolate aroma filling the air.
  4. Once melted, remove the bowl from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt for added flavor depth.
  5. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into a large bowl and fold in the rice cereal using a spatula. Gently mix until the cereal is evenly coated and the mixture is sticky and glossy.
  6. Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan. Use the back of a spatula or your fingers (lined with parchment) to press the mixture firmly into an even layer. This helps the bars hold together nicely.
  7. Cover the pan lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set and the bars are firm.
  8. Once chilled and firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles.
  9. Optional: sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each bar for extra flavor and visual appeal.
  10. Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze for up to a month. Let thaw slightly before enjoying.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.