Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cups pretzel rods (broken in half); 2 cups Corn Chex cereal; 1 cup M&Ms (plus 1/4 cup more for sprinkling on top if desired); 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 10 ounces miniature marshmallows (plus 1/2 cup more for sprinkling on top if desired)

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars will quickly become a favorite in your household. Combining the delightful crunch of pretzel rods and Corn Chex cereal with the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, these bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re packing them for a school lunch, enjoying them as an after-dinner snack, or serving them at a party, these bars are sure to impress.

The best part? They are incredibly easy to make, and you likely have most of the ingredients already in your pantry. Let’s dive into what makes these bars so special and how you can whip them up in no time!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
– Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to customize the mix-ins to your liking. Add nuts, dried fruits, or even your favorite chocolate chips.
– Kid-Friendly: Children will love the sweet and salty combination, making these bars a hit at any gathering.
– Perfect for Meal Prep: These bars store well, making them a great option for grab-and-go snacks throughout the week.

Ingredients at a Glance

3 cups pretzel rods, broken in half
2 cups Corn Chex cereal
1 cup M&Ms, plus 1/4 cup more for sprinkling on top if desired
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup creamy peanut butter
One 10-ounce bag miniature marshmallows, plus 1/2 cup more for sprinkling on top if desired

Toolbox for This Recipe

Large mixing bowl: To combine all your delicious ingredients.
Medium saucepan: For melting the butter and marshmallows.
Spatula: To mix everything together and ensure it’s well combined.
9×13 inch baking dish: The perfect size for your bars, ensuring they set evenly.
Parchment paper: To line your baking dish for easy removal and cleanup.

Directions: Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by lining a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This will ensure your Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars come out perfectly shaped.

Step 2: Melt the Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and the 10-ounce bag of miniature marshmallows. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter

Once the butter and marshmallows are melted together, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the broken pretzel rods, Corn Chex cereal, and 1 cup of M&Ms. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use your spatula to press the mixture down firmly, ensuring it’s evenly spread out.

Step 6: Add Toppings

If desired, sprinkle the additional 1/4 cup of M&Ms and 1/2 cup of miniature marshmallows on top of the pressed mixture for a fun and colorful finish.

Step 7: Let It Set

Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. For quicker setting, you can place them in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.

Step 8: Slice and Enjoy!

Once set, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the bars out of the baking dish. Slice them into squares or rectangles, and indulge in your delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

Use plant-based butter: Replace unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative.
Opt for vegan marshmallows: Look for brands that offer gelatin-free marshmallows.
Use a nut butter alternative: Swap creamy peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.

Cook’s Commentary

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars are not only simple to make, but they also allow for plenty of creativity. Consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. The combination of textures—from the crunchy pretzels to the chewy marshmallows—creates a delightful eating experience. Feel free to experiment with different cereals or candies to make this recipe your own!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. These bars also freeze well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.

Common Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve them.

What can I substitute for M&Ms?

You can use chocolate chips, dried fruits, or any other candy you enjoy. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free pretzel rods, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars can be gluten-free.

Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture for an extra nutritional boost. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars, don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family! They’ll love the easy-to-follow instructions and delicious results. Snap a picture of your bars and tag us on social media; we would love to see your creations!

These bars are the perfect blend of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy, and they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the delightful taste of homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix Bars. Enjoy every bite!