Oh Henry Bars

Oh Henry Bars are a delightful treat that blend crunchy gluten-free rice cereal with creamy peanut butter and rich dairy-free chocolate. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or a cozy night in, these bars are not only easy to prepare but also satisfy sweet cravings without any gluten or dairy. With their ooey-gooey texture and nutty flavor, they stand out as a favorite among dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Gluten and Dairy Free: Enjoy the sweet taste without worrying about dietary restrictions.
• Customizable Toppings: Add chopped nuts or your favorite sprinkles for an extra special touch.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into bars, pack them up, and share with friends or family at any occasion.

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Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Oh Henry Bars, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. This will ensure a smooth cooking process from start to finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Saucepan
• Mixing spoon
• 9 x 13-inch pan
• Microwave-safe bowl (or double boiler)

Importance of Each Tool

• Saucepan: Necessary for heating the sugar and syrup mixture evenly.
• Mixing Spoon: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly for that perfect texture.
• 9 x 13-inch Pan: Provides ample space to press the mixture down firmly, achieving an even bar shape.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: Ideal for melting chocolate quickly without burning.

Ingredients

For the Base

• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup white Karo syrup
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 6 cups gluten free rice krispie cereal (see brand suggestions in post)

For the Topping

• 20 ounces Enjoy Life semi-sweet chocolate chips (2-10 ounce bags)

How to Make Oh Henry Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

1. Heat ¾ cup granulated sugar and 1 cup white Karo syrup in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a boil.
2. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup creamy peanut butter, mixing until smooth.

Step 2: Combine with Cereal

1. Pour 6 cups gluten free rice krispie cereal into the saucepan containing the peanut butter mixture.
2. Stir well until all the cereal is coated evenly.

Step 3: Press into Pan

1. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
2. Press down firmly using your hands or a spatula to create an even layer.

Step 4: Melt Chocolate Topping

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 20 ounces Enjoy Life semi-sweet chocolate chips.
2. Heat in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring frequently until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Bars

1. Spread the melted chocolate over the pressed peanut butter rice krispie layer evenly.
2. Allow it to set at room temperature before cutting into bars.

Step 6: Storage Tips

1. These bars are best enjoyed on the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
2. Optional: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of chocolate before it sets for added crunch!

How to Serve Oh Henry Bars

Oh Henry Bars are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a sweet snack, these bars are versatile and easy to serve.

Individual Servings

• Serve each bar cut into small squares for easy handling at parties or gatherings.
• Pair with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Toppings and Garnishes

• Drizzle with extra melted dairy-free chocolate for added richness.
• Sprinkle with sea salt to enhance the sweet and salty flavors.

Accompanied Beverages

• Enjoy with a glass of almond milk for a comforting combination.
• Brew a cup of herbal tea to balance the sweetness of the bars.

How to Perfect Oh Henry Bars

Perfecting your Oh Henry Bars is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh peanut butter and new chocolate chips will enhance flavor and texture.
• Pat down firmly: When pressing the mixture into the pan, make sure to press it down firmly to avoid crumbly bars.
• Chill before cutting: Letting the bars cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes makes cutting them easier and cleaner.
• Experiment with add-ins: Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture in your bars.

Best Side Dishes for Oh Henry Bars

Serving side dishes alongside your Oh Henry Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich bars.
2. Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free option adds a creamy touch that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
3. Almond Milk Smoothie: Blend almond milk with bananas and berries for a tasty drink that complements the dessert.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy pudding provides a fun texture and contrasts nicely with the chewy bars.
5. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of homemade granola adds crunchiness that balances the softness of the bars.
6. Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate: A warm beverage like hot chocolate brings comfort and pairs well with sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Oh Henry Bars can be simple, but small mistakes can spoil the fun. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the stirring step: Make sure to stir the peanut butter mixture thoroughly before adding the rice cereal. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
• Not using gluten-free ingredients: Always double-check your ingredients for gluten-free labeling, especially with rice cereal and chocolate chips.
• Overheating the chocolate: When melting chocolate, do it slowly. Overheating can cause it to seize up, ruining your topping.
• Pressing too hard: When pressing the mixture into the pan, use gentle pressure. Pressing too hard can make the bars dense instead of light and crisp.
• Cutting before cooling: Allow your bars to set properly before cutting them. This helps maintain their shape and makes serving easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Oh Henry Bars in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Oh Henry Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Oh Henry Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Oh Henry Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked queries:

Can I make dairy-free Oh Henry Bars?

Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free by using dairy-free chocolate chips and peanut butter.

Can I use different types of nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can be great substitutes for peanut butter in this recipe.

How do I know when my chocolate is melted?

Stir often while melting; the chocolate should be smooth and pourable without any lumps.

What if I don’t have gluten-free rice cereal?

You can substitute with another type of gluten-free puffed grain or cereal that you prefer. Just ensure it’s labeled gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

These Oh Henry Bars offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Their gluten and dairy-free nature means everyone can enjoy them! Feel free to customize with nuts or other toppings to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a sweet bite of nostalgia!