Decadent SunButter Chocolate Crunch Bars

Ultimate Nut-Free Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats: Vegan, Gluten-Free & Deliciously Simple

Discover the joy of naturally sweetened, nut-free Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats! Perfect as a wholesome snack or a delightful dessert, these treats can be enjoyed plain or enhanced with an incredibly easy 2-ingredient chocolate frosting.

Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats stacked on plate

In a world often celebrating peanut butter’s rich, nutty flavor, it’s easy to overlook other fantastic alternatives. While many of us adore classic peanut butter desserts, there’s a growing need for allergy-friendly options that don’t compromise on taste or texture. That’s where these incredible Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats come in! They offer a delightful, nut-free spin on a beloved childhood favorite, ensuring everyone can enjoy a chewy, chocolatey, and satisfying treat.

These aren’t just any rice crispy treats; they’re a healthier, more inclusive version, crafted with wholesome ingredients. Forget the traditional marshmallow fluff and refined sugars! Our recipe embraces the creamy richness of sunflower seed butter, paired with natural sweetness, to create a truly irresistible snack. Best of all, they require only a handful of ingredients and absolutely no baking, making them a perfect project for any kitchen, big or small.

If you’re searching for a kid-friendly snack, a guilt-free dessert, or simply a delicious, nutritious treat that caters to various dietary needs, you’ve found your match. These Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats are not only vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free but also completely nut-free, making them ideal for school lunchboxes and allergy-conscious households. Get ready to rediscover a classic with a super seed twist!

ingredients for Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats

The Secret Ingredients Behind Our Healthier Rice Crispy Treats

Rice crispy treats hold a special place in many hearts, often being one of the first “recipes” we learn to make without needing an oven. Their simplicity is part of their charm, but the traditional version, loaded with marshmallows, can be packed with refined sugars and other less-than-ideal ingredients. Our mission was to create a treat that captured that same beloved chewy-crispy texture and nostalgic flavor, but with a significantly healthier profile and without any nuts.

So, what’s our secret to achieving that perfect sticky, cohesive texture without marshmallows? The magic lies in a clever combination of creamy SunButter and pure maple syrup. This dynamic duo replaces the classic marshmallow filling entirely, transforming these treats into a refined-sugar-free, gluten-free, oil-free, and proudly plant-based delight. SunButter, a delicious sunflower seed butter, provides the rich, creamy base, while maple syrup adds natural sweetness and acts as the perfect binder.

The key to setting these wholesome squares is a little chill time. A stint in the fridge or freezer allows the SunButter and maple syrup mixture to firm up beautifully, creating sturdy, satisfying squares that hold their shape. This no-bake method not only keeps things simple but also ensures the nutritional integrity of our ingredients remains intact. We opt for brown rice crisp cereal for its slightly more robust texture and whole-grain goodness, adding another layer of health benefits to these already fantastic treats.

Rice Crispy Treats pressed into parchment lined baking dish with spatula

Why SunButter Makes These The Best Nut-Free Crispy Treats

These aren’t bland health snacks for kids; these are seriously delicious treats for everyone! The choice of SunButter is central to the success of this recipe, offering a creamy, rich, and utterly satisfying nut-free alternative to traditional peanut butter. SunButter, made from roasted sunflower seeds, brings its own unique flavor profile—slightly earthy, subtly sweet, and wonderfully buttery—that complements the chocolate and crisp cereal beautifully. It’s an ideal choice for those with peanut or tree nut allergies, ensuring peace of mind without sacrificing flavor.

Beyond its allergen-friendly status, SunButter is also a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a more wholesome snack than many conventional options. We specifically recommend using “No-Sugar-Added SunButter” to keep the sugar content in check and allow the natural flavors to shine. This ensures our treats are truly refined sugar-free and align with a healthier lifestyle.

To elevate these crispies from simple to sensational, we’ve included an optional addition of roasted sunflower seeds. These seeds add an extra layer of crunch, texture, and a boost of protein and fiber, making each bite even more satisfying. If you prefer a smoother, more classic rice crispy treat experience, feel free to omit the extra sunflower seeds and substitute with more cereal. However, we highly recommend trying them with the seeds for that delightful textural contrast and added nutritional punch.

And for an extra touch of indulgence? Don’t skip the optional 2-ingredient chocolate “frosting.” It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring just melted dark chocolate (vegan, 70% or higher for the best flavor and health benefits) and a touch more SunButter. This creates a rich, creamy, and decadent topping that perfectly complements the crispy base. It’s the ultimate finishing touch that takes these treats from great to absolutely unforgettable. You’re welcome for this simple yet game-changing addition!

Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats sliced into bars in parchment lined baking dish

Versatile Ways to Enjoy Your Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats

These Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats (Nut-Free) are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go snack, a satisfying after-dinner dessert, or even a wholesome breakfast bar, these treats fit the bill perfectly. Their wholesome ingredients and energizing profile make them an excellent choice for a mid-morning pick-me-up or a post-workout refuel.

Make a generous pan at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have an easy, delicious option ready to go whenever hunger strikes. They’re fantastic for packing into lunchboxes for school or work, offering a safe and tasty treat for those with allergies. Because they are meticulously crafted to be gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free, they are suitable for nearly anyone, eliminating the stress of catering to multiple dietary restrictions at gatherings or family meals.

Beyond their practical benefits, these treats are incredibly fun to make, especially with kids! Involving little ones in the simple, no-bake process is a great way to teach them about healthy ingredients and basic cooking skills. They’ll love pressing the mixture into the pan and spreading the chocolate frosting. Imagine the joy of creating a delicious snack together that everyone can safely enjoy.

Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The chill enhances their chewiness and ensures the frosting stays firm, making them a consistently delightful experience. I, for one, would be absolutely thrilled to find a couple of these perfectly portioned squares tucked into my lunchbox any day of the week. They’re not just food; they’re a little moment of joy, carefully crafted to be inclusive and utterly delicious.

Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats stacked on plate

More Delicious Chocolate Snacks to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with these Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats and are craving more chocolatey goodness that’s both healthy and simple, you’re in luck! Here are some other fantastic recipes from Flora & Vino that celebrate rich chocolate flavors while adhering to wholesome, plant-based principles:

  • Superfood Chocolate Maca Cups

  • 2-Ingredient Dark Chocolate Coconut Butter Cups

  • Superseed Chocolate Truffles

These recipes offer diverse textures and flavor profiles, from creamy cups to decadent truffles, all designed to satisfy your sweet tooth in a nutritious way. Each recipe is crafted with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, proving that healthy eating can be incredibly indulgent.

We’d Love to Hear From You!

If you get a chance to make this Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats recipe, we truly hope you love them as much as we do! Your feedback is invaluable, helping us to create more delicious and accessible recipes for everyone. Please take a moment to leave a comment, a rating, and a review below to share your experience. Your insights help us perfect our recipes and inspire others in our community.

Don’t forget to give us a shout on Instagram and use the hashtag #floraandvino to show off your beautiful creations. We absolutely love seeing your culinary adventures and connecting with you there!

For more plant-based, allergy-friendly recipe inspiration, be sure to check out our Pinterest page. You’ll find a treasure trove of recipes just like this one, perfect for saving to your boards to try later. And if you love what you see and want to stay updated with all our latest recipes and tips, head over to our homepage and subscribe to get delicious updates delivered straight to your inbox!

XO Lauren

Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats stacked on plate


Print

clock icon cutlery icon flag icon folder icon instagram icon pinterest icon facebook icon print icon squares icon heart icon heart solid icon

Stacked Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats

Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats



5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 4 reviews


  • Author:
    Flora & Vino


  • Total Time:
    30 minutes


  • Yield:
    16 delicious squares


  • Diet:
    Vegan, Nut-Free, Gluten-Free, Refined Sugar-Free
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Description

These Chocolate SunButter Rice Crispy Treats are a naturally sweetened, nut-free sensation! Crafted with creamy SunButter and pure maple syrup, they offer a healthier, plant-based twist on a classic childhood favorite. Enjoy them as a wholesome snack, a delightful dessert, or enhance them with a simple 2-ingredient chocolate frosting for an extra layer of decadence. They’re perfect for anyone seeking delicious, allergy-friendly options that are also vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free.


Ingredients

For the SunButter Rice Crispy Treats:

  • 3 1/2 cups brown rice crisp cereal (ensure it’s gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/2 cup roasted sunflower seeds (optional, for extra crunch and nutrition)
  • 1/2 cup No-Sugar-Added SunButter (creamy variety works best)
  • generous 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (grade A or B for best flavor)

For the Optional 2-Ingredient Chocolate Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup vegan dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher recommended)
  • 1/4 cup No-Sugar-Added SunButter


Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8×8 inch baking dish by lining it completely with parchment paper. Leave an overhang on two sides to easily lift the treats out later. Alternatively, lightly grease the dish with a neutral oil like coconut oil.
  2. In a large, heat-safe mixing bowl, combine the brown rice crisp cereal and the optional sunflower seeds. Give them a quick stir to combine evenly and set the bowl aside.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine the SunButter and pure maple syrup. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth, fully incorporated, and begins to gently bubble around the edges, which usually takes about 2 minutes. The consistency should resemble a thick, gooey caramel sauce.
  4. Immediately remove the SunButter and maple syrup mixture from the heat and pour it directly over the cereal and sunflower seeds in the large mixing bowl. Using a sturdy rubber spatula, gently but thoroughly stir and fold everything together until all the rice crisps and seeds are well coated and sticky.
  5. Transfer the entire sticky mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using the back of your rubber spatula or a piece of parchment paper, press down very firmly and evenly across the entire surface. Ensure the pan is tightly packed, creating a uniform, flat top. This is crucial for cohesive bars.
  6. Place the baking pan into the freezer for 25-30 minutes. This chilling time allows the SunButter and maple syrup to solidify, ensuring the treats become firm and easy to slice.
  7. Approximately five minutes before the treats are done chilling, begin preparing the optional chocolate SunButter frosting. In a clean small saucepan over medium-low heat, add the vegan dark chocolate and the additional SunButter. Stir frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth, thick, and creamy. Be careful not to overheat.
  8. Remove the chilled crispy treat base from the freezer. Immediately pour the warm chocolate SunButter frosting over the top and spread it into a thin, even layer using your spatula.
  9. Transfer the pan back into the refrigerator or freezer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate frosting layer is completely set and firm to the touch.
  10. Once fully set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab of treats from the baking dish. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut the slab into 16-ish equal squares or bars. Serve immediately and enjoy! Store any leftover treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

Recipe adapted from Beaming Baker. For best results, use a high-quality creamy SunButter without added sugar. Adjust maple syrup to your sweetness preference, but be mindful that too much may alter the texture.

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Category: Dessert, Snack, No-Bake, Healthy
  • Method: Stovetop, Freezer (No-Bake)
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Oil-Free, Gluten-Free, Refined Sugar-Free, Allergy-Friendly

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @flora_and_vino on Instagram and hashtag it #floraandvino

This post is brought to you by SunButter, a brand we wholeheartedly trust and love. All words, culinary creations, and enthusiasm are entirely our own. Thank you for supporting the incredible sponsors that help us continue sharing delicious and wholesome recipes!