Combine brown sugar, peanut butter, honey and butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.

Bring sugar mixture just to a boil, stir in espresso powder and cocoa powder and then continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes stirring constantly, or until the powders are dissolved.

Stir in oats, crispy rice cereal, and almonds until evenly coated.

Place parchment paper in an 8x8 inch baking dish. Make sure the paper hangs over on either side so you can pull out the granola bars and cut them up with ease.

Once mixture has cooled slightly, press into the prepared dish.

Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top of the bars and use the bottom of a bowl or cup to press them into the bars. You don't want them to fall out when cutting!

Let bars set up for 1-2 hours before cutting.