In a pot over medium heat, mix together brown sugar, corn syrup, peanut butter (if using), unsalted butter, salt, and vanilla extract.

Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.

Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens like a sauce.

In a large mixing bowl, combine Rice Krispies cereal with quick oats.

Pour the sauce over the cereal mixture and stir with a rubber spatula until combined.

Line a 9x9-inch pan with parchment paper and press the mixture into one flat layer.

Chill in the fridge for about an hour until it's cool and set.

Once set, remove from the pan and cut into individual granola bars.

Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.

Dip the bottom of each bar into the melted chocolate and place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.

Drizzle more chocolate on top of each bar and sprinkle mini M&Ms over them.

Chill in the fridge or freezer for 10 to 20 minutes until the chocolate hardens.

Enjoy your homemade Kudos Bars!