Dark Chocolate Puffed Rice Recipe – Easy No-Bake Bars

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Dark Chocolate Puffed Rice Recipe – Easy No-Bake Bars

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious treat. And let me tell you, these no-bake dark chocolate puffed rice bars are it! I first made these when I was craving something chocolatey but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. They’ve been a family favorite ever since. Seriously, they disappear fast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are the best of both worlds – rich, decadent dark chocolate combined with the light, airy crunch of puffed rice and the satisfying bite of peanuts. Plus, they require absolutely no baking! That’s right, zero oven time. Perfect for hot summer days, or when you just want a sweet fix without the fuss. They’re ready in under 15 minutes, and honestly, who doesn’t love that?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delightful bars:

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (about 170g)
• 1 cup puffed white rice (about 90g)
• 1 cup peanuts (about 140g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can really elevate this recipe.

Dark Chocolate Chips: Choosing the Right Percentage & Brands

I prefer using 70% dark chocolate chips for a lovely balance of sweetness and bitterness. But feel free to adjust the percentage to your liking! If you’re a serious dark chocolate lover, go for 85% or even higher. As for brands, I’ve had great results with both Hershey’s Special Dark and Ghirardelli.

Puffed White Rice: Benefits & Where to Find It

Puffed white rice (also known as murmura in India!) adds a wonderful lightness and crunch. You can usually find it in the cereal aisle of most supermarkets, or in Indian grocery stores. It’s a great source of energy too!

Peanuts: Roasting for Enhanced Flavor

While you can use raw peanuts, I highly recommend roasting them before adding them to the chocolate. It brings out their natural flavor and adds an extra layer of deliciousness. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 175°C (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Let them cool completely before using.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking (well, not cooking, actually!).

1. First, let’s melt that chocolate! You can use a double boiler or the microwave. If microwaving, heat the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat it!
2. Now, grab a large bowl and pour in the puffed rice and roasted peanuts.
3. Pour the melted chocolate over the puffed rice and peanuts. Gently mix everything together until everything is evenly coated in that glorious chocolate.
4. Line an 8×4 inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This makes removing the bars so much easier. Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
5. Pop the pan into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the bars are completely set.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the parchment paper! Trust me on this one.
• If your chocolate seizes up, try adding a tiny bit of vegetable oil (like 1/2 teaspoon) and stirring vigorously.
• For a super smooth finish, use a heated knife to slice the bars. Just run it under hot water and dry it before each slice.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

• My friend Priya loves adding a sprinkle of cardamom powder to the chocolate for a warm, aromatic twist.
• For a nutty upgrade, try using a mix of peanuts, almonds, and cashews.
• My kids adore these with a layer of sprinkles on top!

Vegan Adaptation

Want to make these vegan? It’s easy! Just use vegan dark chocolate chips. There are some fantastic options available now.

Gluten-Free Confirmation

Good news for those avoiding gluten – this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your chocolate chips are certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.

Spice Level (Optional: Chili Flake Addition)

Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of chili flakes to the melted chocolate for a delightful kick! It’s a surprisingly delicious combination.

Festival Adaptations (Snack for Diwali/Holidays)

These bars make a fantastic snack for festivals like Diwali or any holiday gathering. They’re easy to pack and share, and everyone always asks for the recipe!

Serving Suggestions

These bars are perfect on their own with a glass of cold milk or a cup of chai. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter.

Storage Instructions

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage – just wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

FAQs

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?

The key is to melt the chocolate slowly and gently. Avoid overheating it, and make sure no water gets into the chocolate.

Can I use other types of nuts instead of peanuts?

Absolutely! Almonds, cashews, walnuts, or even pistachios would all be delicious.

Is it necessary to use parchment paper?

While not strictly necessary, it makes removing the bars from the pan so much easier and prevents them from sticking.

How long will these bars stay fresh?

They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I add dried fruit to this recipe?

Yes! Dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots would all be lovely additions. Just add them along with the puffed rice and peanuts.