These Toffee Crunch Popcorn Bars are one of my go-to treats when I want something sweet, quick, and a little bit extra. They are made with crispy rice cereal, gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and a sprinkle of toffee for that perfect sweet crunch. Think chocolate popcorn bars meet cereal bars, all wrapped up in an easy, no-bake dessert! If you’re into a good toffee dessert, you’re definitely going to want to try these. And, if you love the classic marshmallow and cereal combo, you will want to check out my Soft Rice Krispie Bars next!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Popcorn: I used 10 cups of popped white popcorn. Any kind works, as long as it’s plain (no butter or salt). Air-popped or bagged is fine!
- Cereal: Look for any crispy rice cereal, like Rice Krispies, to use in the bars.
- Toffee Bits: For these popcorn bars, I used plain toffee bits (like Heath Bits O’ Brittle), not the chocolate-covered ones.
- Marshmallows: You will need 6 cups of mini marshmallows, but regular ones work, too. If using regular-sized marshmallows, about 42 should do it. Just chop them up a bit if you want them to melt faster.
- Chocolate Chips: I used semi-sweet chocolate chips, but milk, dark, or even chopped chocolate bars all work great here. Or, use peanut butter chips for a nutty flavor. Use whatever you love!
Can I Use Kettle Corn Or Flavored Popcorn For Popcorn Bars?
Yes, you can! But keep in mind, kettle corn and flavored popcorn are sweeter or saltier, so your bars might taste different. For the best flavor, plain popcorn works best.
Can I Substitute Another Cereal for Rice Krispies?
Yes! You can use any crunchy rice cereal like Chex, Cocoa Krispies, or a generic crispy rice cereal. Just make sure it’s plain or lightly sweetened so your bars don’t get too sweet. Keep in mind that different cereals might change the texture or flavor a little, but they’ll still be tasty!
Tips For Mixing Sticky Popcorn Bar Mixture
When mixing your popcorn bar mixture, it’s normal for it to get a little sticky. So, don’t worry about getting your hands a little messy! To make it easier, try greasing your hands or spatula with a bit of butter or cooking spray (I used cooking spray). This will help you handle the mixture without it sticking too much. But, please note, if mixing by hand, the marshmallows are hot, so wait about a minute. You can also try using a silicone spatula or wax paper to press it into the pan!
Can I Make Popcorn Bars Without Toffee Bits?
Yes, you can skip the toffee bits if you don’t have them. The bars will still be yummy, but you’ll miss out on that crunchy, buttery toffee flavor.
Can I Add Nuts or Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to add nuts like chopped almonds, pecans, or peanuts for extra crunch. You can also toss in dried fruit, candy pieces, or even shredded coconut to make these bars your own.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Toffee Crunch Popcorn Bars
- Using buttered or salted popcorn: Stick with plain popcorn. Flavored or salted kinds can make the bars too salty or greasy.
- Not greasing your spatula or hands: The mixture is sticky! Lightly grease your tools to make mixing and pressing easier.
- Overheating the marshmallows: Melt them gently over low heat. If they get too hot, the mixture can become stiff and hard to mix.
- Waiting too long to mix: Once the marshmallow mixture is poured in, stir quickly before it starts to cool and harden.
- Skipping the resting time: Letting the bars rest helps the bars firm up and makes them easier to slice; don’t skip it!
How To Store Toffee Crunch Popcorn Bars
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If your kitchen is warm, you can keep them in the refrigerator to help them hold their shape longer.
Can I Freeze Toffee Crunch Popcorn Bars?
Yes! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Toffee Crunch Popcorn Bars
Ingredients
- 10 cups (80 g) popped white popcorn
- 1 ½ cups (43.5 g) Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup toffee bits, divided
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cups (300 g) mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ½ cups (273 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it extends up the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the popped popcorn, Rice Krispies cereal, and ¾ cup of the toffee bits. Gently toss until evenly combined.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the mini marshmallows. Stir continuously with a rubber spatula until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla and salt.
- To a microwave-safe bowl, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Immediately pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn mixture. Lightly grease your spatula (or hands) with butter or cooking spray, then gently stir until everything is well coated. (Note: If using your hands to mix, let the mixture cool for about a minute first, as the marshmallows will be hot right after melting.)
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the coated popcorn mixture. Stir again until everything is fully combined and evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a greased spatula to press it down firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of toffee bits over the top and gently press them in.
- Let the bars set for 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares and serve.
Did you make this recipe?
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What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
I kept going back for more! These bars are so addicting and the perfect mix of chocolate, toffee, and popcorn!
Elizabeth
I didn't think I would like these so much, but they are fantastic! I love the crunch, and I would like to try them with nuts next time.
Stephanie
I love these bars! It is like a step-up from regular popcorn, great for movie night!
Bella
These don't seem like cereal bars to me; they are sweet, crunchy, and a little chewy (if that makes sense)!
These remind me of updated rice crispy bars but better! I love toffee and will try ! We only need sm qty to satisfy our sweet tooth! Thanks for sharing! God bless you 🙏