Irresistible No-Bake Oh Henry Bars: Your Go-To Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Peanut Butter Chocolate Treat

Oh Henry Bars are a classic no-bake recipe with a satisfying crunch of rice cereal smothered in rich, melted peanut butter, all crowned with a luscious semisweet chocolate topping. Simple to make and utterly delicious, these bars are the perfect mouthwatering dessert for any occasion. After cutting them into squares, simply serve and enjoy!

Dive into the nostalgic delight of Oh Henry Bars, a timeless no-bake dessert that brings together the irresistible crunch of rice cereal with the creamy richness of peanut butter, all topped with a luscious layer of semi-sweet chocolate. This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a testament to simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavor. Perfectly crafted for those seeking a gluten-free and dairy-free indulgence, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for every occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive holiday spreads. There is no doubt—children and adults alike adore these no-fuss, allergen-friendly treats loaded with the perfect balance of peanut butter and chocolate.

These are truly our favorite No Bake Dessert Bars!

Why You’ll Adore These No-Bake Oh Henry Bars

These Oh Henry Bars aren’t just a dessert; they’re an experience! Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your household:

• Universally Loved by Kids and Adults: Their familiar flavors and satisfying textures make these bars an instant hit with children, while adults appreciate the nostalgic taste and the fact that they are free from common allergens without compromising on flavor or indulgence.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make: Forget about turning on the oven! This no-bake recipe is incredibly straightforward, requiring minimal effort and just a few basic kitchen tools. It’s perfect for busy schedules, impromptu cravings, or when you want a delicious treat without the fuss and heat of traditional baking.
• Thoughtfully Allergen-Friendly: Carefully designed to be both gluten-free and dairy-free, this recipe ensures almost everyone can enjoy a delectable treat. Using certified gluten-free rice cereal and high-quality dairy-free chocolate chips makes these bars a safe and delightful option for those with dietary restrictions or allergies, bringing peace of mind with every bite.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing for a grand holiday feast, a birthday celebration, a casual potluck, or simply craving something sweet on a quiet afternoon, these Oh Henry Bars fit every bill. Their simplicity means you don’t need a special reason to whip up a batch, but their impressive taste makes them worthy of any festive table.
• Minimal Cleanup Required: With no baking involved and simple, direct steps, cleanup is remarkably easy. Less time scrubbing pots and pans means more time to savor your delicious creations and spend with loved ones.

These gluten-free and dairy-free Oh Henry bars truly strike the perfect balance between rich peanut butter and smooth chocolate, making them an unparalleled sweet treat.

Essential Ingredients for Your Oh Henry Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these phenomenal no-bake bars. You’ll find specific quantities in the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this post, but here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial:

• Granulated Sugar: This provides the foundational sweetness to our bars, balancing the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. It also helps in creating the ideal texture when cooked with the Karo syrup.
• Karo Syrup (Light Corn Syrup): This is the secret ingredient for that signature chewy, gooey factor that makes Oh Henry Bars so incredibly addictive. It acts as a vital binding agent, ensuring your bars hold together perfectly without becoming crumbly or too hard. For the best and most authentic texture, avoid substituting this with alternatives like maple syrup or honey, as they will alter the consistency, sweetness, and overall mouthfeel of the finished product.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: The heart of these bars! Opt for a smooth, creamy peanut butter rather than natural or crunchy varieties for the best consistency in the base mixture. Natural peanut butter tends to separate more readily and can make the bars too oily, while crunchy can interfere with the rice cereal’s crispness. Choose your favorite brand for that rich, classic peanut flavor.
• Gluten-Free Rice Krispie Cereal: The star of the crunch! It’s absolutely essential to use a certified gluten-free rice cereal to keep this recipe allergen-friendly. Brands like Nature’s Path Organic Rice Puffs are highly reliable and consistently deliver excellent results. We’ve also heard favorable reviews about various store brands, such as Walmart’s Crispie Rice, Aldi, and Harris Teeter’s rice krispie cereals. Always make sure to double-check the label to confirm there are no hidden gluten ingredients. This cereal provides the satisfying crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth peanut butter and chocolate layers.
• Dairy-Free Semisweet Chocolate Chips: For the perfect, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate topping, we highly recommend Enjoy Life Foods semi-sweet chocolate chips. They are a fabulous choice because they melt smoothly and evenly, delivering a rich chocolate flavor without any dairy. A helpful tip for those new to gluten-free and dairy-free eating: stock up on these versatile chips when they go on sale to save yourself some change! While the recipe card calls for semi-sweet, you could also experiment with a mixture of dairy-free dark chocolate and semi-sweet for a deeper, less sweet chocolate profile.
• Optional: Chopped Nuts: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider sprinkling finely chopped nuts, such as peanuts or walnuts, generously over the still-wet chocolate layer. This adds a delightful gourmet touch and enhances the classic ‘Oh Henry’ candy bar experience with an added nutty crunch.

Essential Equipment You’ll Need:

• 9×13 inch Baking Pan: The ideal size for a standard batch of these bars.
• Medium Saucepan: For heating the sugar and Karo syrup.
• Sturdy Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Essential for mixing the thick peanut butter and cereal mixture.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.
• Parchment Paper: Highly recommended for lining the pan, ensuring effortless removal and clean cuts.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Creating these no-bake Oh Henry Bars is incredibly simple. Follow these steps for perfect, mouthwatering results every time:

1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Base: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and Karo syrup. Heat this mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches a full, rolling boil. It’s crucial to stir continuously to prevent the sugar from scorching. Once it reaches a boil, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter until it’s completely melted and thoroughly combined with the sugar syrup, forming a smooth, cohesive mixture.
2. Combine with Cereal: Carefully pour the gluten-free rice krispie cereal into the warm peanut butter mixture in the saucepan. Using a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon, gently fold and stir until all the cereal is evenly coated. Work quickly but gently to avoid crushing the cereal too much, as you want to preserve its delightful crunch.
3. Press into Pan: Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on the sides. This step is crucial for effortless removal of the bars later. Transfer the peanut butter rice krispie mixture into the prepared pan. Using the back of a spoon or your hands (lightly greased or dampened with water to prevent sticking), press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the pan. Ensure it’s packed tightly across the entire bottom surface to create a solid base.
4. Add the Chocolate Topping: For the luscious chocolate layer, place the dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and beautifully smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (creating a double boiler), stirring continuously until melted. Once melted, immediately and evenly spread the warm chocolate over the pressed peanut butter rice krispie base using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
5. Set and Serve: Allow the chocolate topping to set at room temperature. To speed up the setting process, you can carefully place the pan in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. Once the chocolate is firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan onto a cutting board. Using a sharp knife (warming the knife under hot water and drying it between cuts can help achieve cleaner slices), cut the bars into desired squares or rectangles. For the best texture and flavor, these bars are generally best enjoyed the day they are made, but they remain wonderfully delicious for several days.
6. Storage: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
7. Optional Step: Sprinkle Nuts: If you choose to add chopped nuts, sprinkle them generously over the melted chocolate topping immediately after spreading it and before the chocolate has a chance to set. This ensures they adhere nicely to the surface, adding an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor that complements the peanut butter and chocolate perfectly.

More Delightful Gluten and Dairy-Free Desserts to Explore

If you loved these Oh Henry Bars, you’re in for a treat! Our website is full of delicious recipes that cater to gluten-free and dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor. Here are a few more favorites you might enjoy:

• Decadent Chocolate Cream Pie: This super easy, rich, and creamy pie recipe is a dream for chocolate lovers and will undoubtedly leave you craving another slice. It’s surprisingly simple to make dairy-free and gluten-free without compromising on its luxurious, decadent taste.
• Fudgy Homemade Brownie Bites: Another quick dessert ready in minutes, these brownie bites offer a delightful fudgy texture and intense chocolate flavor that makes them a consistent crowd favorite. Perfect for portion control or a quick sweet fix for any occasion!
• Creamy Oreo Milkshake: Oh, who doesn’t love a good milkshake recipe? This homemade version is 100% gluten and dairy-free, offering all the classic cookies-and-cream indulgence without any of the common allergens. A refreshing and delightful treat for any time of year, perfect for cooling down on a warm day.

These irresistible No-Bake Oh Henry Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a truly heavenly hit. Their ease of preparation and universally loved flavors make them a must-add to your recipe collection, especially if you’re navigating gluten-free and dairy-free eating. We hope you enjoy making and sharing these delightful treats as much as we do!

Beyond this fantastic recipe, our website is a treasure trove of gluten-free and dairy-free culinary adventures. Explore a wide array of dishes designed to bring joy and flavor back to your table. Don’t miss out on our exclusive eBooks: The Classics, an instant download featuring 16 essential recipes that will quickly become staples in your home, and our Holiday Recipes eBook Cookbook, packed with over 50 tried-and-true gluten and dairy-free recipes perfect for celebrating throughout the year. Happy cooking, and happy eating!

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