If you love a sweet treat that’s irresistibly crunchy, chewy, and loaded with layers of rich flavors, you are absolutely going to adore this No Bake Crispy Snickers Bars Recipe. It’s a heavenly blend of chocolate, peanut butter, caramel, marshmallow, and crispy cereal that comes together without ever turning on your oven. Whether you’re after a quick dessert to impress guests or a fun snack to satisfy that sweet tooth, this recipe is a total game changer. It’s like snacking on a classic Snickers bar that got an upgrade in texture and size, perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect combination of textures and flavors. From the smooth peanut butter adding creamy richness to the cocoa pebbles providing that addictive crunch, this No Bake Crispy Snickers Bars Recipe is all about balance and delight in every bite.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (12 ounces, divided): They bring a deep, rich chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Butterscotch chips (11 ounces, divided): These add a buttery, creamy sweetness that complements the chocolate and caramel layers.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup, divided): Essential for moistness and that classic peanut flavor loved by all.
- Cocoa Pebbles (3 cups, divided): Offering an incredible crispy texture and a subtle cocoa taste that steals the show.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup): Adds a silky texture and richness to the nougat layer.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and helps create the gooey nougat base.
- Evaporated milk (¼ cup plus another ¼ cup): Makes the caramel and nougat layers creamy and smooth.
- Marshmallow creme (7 ounces): Adds cloud-like fluffiness to the nougat center.
- Roasted lightly salted peanuts (1 ½ cups, coarsely chopped): Provides that essential salty crunch and nutty flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with warm, aromatic notes.
- KRAFT caramels or caramel bits (11 ounces): Melt into luscious, chewy caramel that ties the bars together.
How to Make No Bake Crispy Snickers Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Base Layer
Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper to make removing the bars a breeze later on. Then, melt half each of the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips together with half a cup of peanut butter in short bursts using your microwave. Stir until smooth, then mix in one cup of Cocoa Pebbles. Press this mixture firmly into the prepared dish; this forms a crunchy, chocolatey foundation that gives the bars their signature crisp.
Step 2: Creating the Nougat Layer
For the luscious center, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat and stir until everything melts into a smooth syrup. Next, stir in the marshmallow creme and remaining peanut butter, folding in the remaining Cocoa Pebbles to keep the crunch consistent. Spread this creamy, fluffy nougat over the chocolate base for a perfect chewy contrast.
Step 3: Adding the Caramel and Nuts
Melt the remaining caramels with the second portion of evaporated milk until you have a silky caramel sauce. Stir in the chopped, lightly salted peanuts and vanilla extract, then pour this over the nougat layer. This combination brings that iconic Snickers flavor with bursts of sweet caramel and crunchy nuts, sealing the layers together wonderfully.
Step 4: Topping with the Final Chocolate Layer
Finally, melt the rest of the semi-sweet chocolate and butterscotch chips together, then pour this glossy chocolate topping over the caramel and nut layer. Spread evenly and let the bars chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This final chill ensures each layer sets, making it easy to cut into perfect squares bursting with flavor and texture.
How to Serve No Bake Crispy Snickers Bars Recipe
Garnishes
While these bars are fantastic on their own, adding a light drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of extra chopped peanuts on top just before chilling amps up the visual appeal and flavor. Dusting a bit of sea salt over the top can also highlight the sweetness and make every bite pop.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars alongside a cold glass of milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The creamy and crunchy bars pair beautifully with drinks that balance their sweetness and richness, making your snack or dessert moment even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the No Bake Crispy Snickers Bars Recipe into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or layering smaller pieces atop ice cream for an indulgent sundae topper. Wrapping individual squares in colorful wax paper also makes for delightful grab-and-go treats perfect for gifting or lunchboxes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Chilling really helps maintain their texture, keeping the crispy layers firm and the caramel gooey without getting too sticky.
Freezing
To save these bars longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw overnight in the fridge so all the layers come back to their luscious, chewy perfection.
Reheating
Generally, reheating isn’t necessary for this recipe since it’s designed to be enjoyed chilled. However, if you want to soften the bars slightly, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to bring out the creamy peanut butter and caramel flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of Cocoa Pebbles?
Absolutely! While Cocoa Pebbles give the perfect chocolatey crunch, you can substitute with other crispy cereals like Rice Krispies or Cocoa Krispies. Just ensure the cereal stays light and crunchy to keep that classic texture.
Is there a way to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Make sure to use certified gluten-free Cocoa Pebbles or your preferred crunchy cereal. Also, double-check that your other ingredients like caramel bits and chocolate chips are gluten-free to keep the entire dessert safe.
Can I substitute natural peanut butter for creamy peanut butter?
You can, but creamy peanut butter works best here because of its smooth texture and ability to blend seamlessly in the layers. Natural peanut butter may cause separation or a grainier texture, which might affect the final consistency.
How long do these bars last at room temperature?
Because of their peanut butter and caramel content, it’s best to keep these bars refrigerated or frozen. At room temperature, they may become too soft or sticky within a day or two.
What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed slightly under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps prevent the chocolate layers from cracking or sticking, resulting in clean, beautiful squares every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a homemade No Bake Crispy Snickers Bars Recipe that’s bursting with flavor and texture without any oven time. This recipe is a lifesaver when you want to whip up something special quickly and with love. I hope you get inspired to try it out soon and share these delightful bars with friends and family — they’re guaranteed to become an all-time favorite!
Print
No Bake Crispy Snickers Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These No Bake Crispy Snickers Bars are a delicious, easy-to-make dessert featuring layers of chocolate, butterscotch, peanut butter, Cocoa Pebbles cereal, marshmallow creme, caramel, and roasted peanuts. Ready in just 30 minutes without any baking required, they’re perfect for a quick treat or party dessert that satisfies with crunchy, sweet, and salty flavors.
Ingredients
Chocolate and Base Layer
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 6 ounces butterscotch chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup Cocoa Pebbles
Nougat Layer
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 7 ounces marshmallow creme
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups Cocoa Pebbles
Carmel Peanut Layer
- 11 ounces KRAFT caramels or caramel bits
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 1/2 cups roasted lightly salted peanuts, coarsely chopped
Top Chocolate Layer
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 6 ounces butterscotch chips
Additional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking.
- Make Base Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt half the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips together with 1/2 cup of peanut butter. Stir in 1 cup of Cocoa Pebbles until coated, then press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the bottom layer.
- Prepare Nougat Layer: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, 1/4 cup evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Remove from heat, then stir in marshmallow creme and the remaining 1/2 cup peanut butter until well combined. Fold in the remaining 2 cups of Cocoa Pebbles and spread this nougat mixture evenly over the base layer in the baking dish.
- Add Caramel Peanut Layer: Melt the caramels with 1/4 cup evaporated milk in a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat until smooth. Stir in the coarsely chopped roasted peanuts, then pour this caramel-peanut topping evenly over the nougat layer.
- Top Chocolate Layer: Melt the remaining semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips together. Spread this melted chocolate mixture over the cooled caramel peanut layer to form the top layer.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the layered dish for at least one hour to allow it to set firmly. Once chilled, cut into 24 squares and serve.
Notes
- Make sure each melted chocolate and caramel mixture is smooth before layering for even texture.
- You can substitute roasted salted peanuts with unsalted if you prefer a less salty bar.
- Press the base layer firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together well when cut.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For easier cutting, warm the knife slightly before slicing to prevent cracking.
