Crispy chocolate cherry treats combine the satisfying crunch of puffed rice cereal with the richness of melted chocolate and the tangy sweetness of dried cherries. These no-bake delights are quick to prepare, easy to customize, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether you are making snacks for a party, lunchbox, or just craving something sweet and crunchy, this simple recipe will deliver.
Made with just a handful of pantry staples, these treats come together in minutes and set in under an hour. They are portable, freezer-friendly, and endlessly adaptable to your taste preferences.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- No baking required
- Takes less than 20 minutes of active time
- Perfect for gifting or sharing
- Combines sweet, tart, and crunchy in every bite
- Can be made dairy-free or gluten-free with simple swaps
Ingredients List
This recipe makes about sixteen square treats, depending on how they are sliced.
- Three cups puffed rice cereal
- One and a half cups semisweet chocolate chips
- One cup dried cherries, roughly chopped
- One tablespoon coconut oil or unsalted butter
- Half teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional additions:
- One fourth cup chopped almonds or pistachios
- One tablespoon cocoa nibs or shredded coconut for garnish
Preparation Time Overview
- Active prep time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 45 to 60 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step One: Prepare the Pan
- Line an eight-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make removal easier later.
- Lightly grease the parchment with a small amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Step Two: Melt the Chocolate
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil or butter.
- Melt the mixture using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts of fifteen seconds, stirring between each until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt once fully melted.
Step Three: Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the puffed rice cereal and chopped dried cherries.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients.
- Stir quickly and gently using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon until everything is evenly coated.
- If using nuts or additional mix-ins, fold them in at this stage.
Step Four: Transfer to the Pan
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Press the mixture down firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or a clean piece of parchment.
- Ensure the surface is flat and the mixture is compact to prevent crumbling later.
Step Five: Chill Until Set
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for forty-five to sixty minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
- For faster setting, place the pan in the freezer for twenty minutes.
Step Six: Slice and Serve
- Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Place on a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
- Serve immediately or store for later.
Storage Tips
- Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
- Freeze individually wrapped squares in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pack in lunchboxes for a sweet snack.
- Serve as a quick dessert alongside fruit or yogurt.
- Stack on a dessert platter for parties or gatherings.
- Wrap in parchment and tie with twine for a homemade edible gift.
Variations and Customizations
- Use white chocolate or milk chocolate in place of semisweet for a sweeter profile.
- Add a dash of almond extract for extra depth.
- Replace cherries with dried cranberries, blueberries, or chopped dates.
- Mix in mini marshmallows or peanut butter chips for a richer treat.
- Use gluten-free puffed rice cereal to make the recipe entirely gluten-free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not overheat the chocolate. It can seize or burn if microwaved too long. Always melt slowly.
- Do not skip lining the pan. It makes slicing and removing the treats much easier.
- Do not stir too vigorously when mixing cereal and chocolate. This can crush the cereal and make the texture dense.
- Avoid under-pressing the mixture in the pan, which can cause it to fall apart after slicing.
Crispy chocolate cherry treats offer the ideal balance of rich, crunchy, and fruity. With just a few simple ingredients and no baking involved, they are perfect for busy weekdays, holiday prep, or any time you need a fast and satisfying dessert. Try the base recipe first, then experiment with your favorite mix-ins and flavors. Once you make them, they are sure to become a regular go-to in your kitchen.
Looking for more quick dessert recipes like this? Stay tuned for more no-bake treats, bars, and bite-sized indulgences perfect for any occasion.