Mars Bar Squares
What do you get when you melt together chocolate bars and mix them with Rice Krispies? These delicious, no-bake Mars Bar Squares, also known as Mars Bar Slice, are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their gooey texture and crunchy bite, they are sure to please both family and friends. Ideal for parties, picnics, or a simple sweet craving, these squares stand out with their rich chocolate flavor and ease of preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, anyone can whip up these tasty treats in no time.
- No-Bake Delight: Perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or other candies to make them your own!
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping with this fun and interactive recipe.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares for a delightful dessert at gatherings or potlucks.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready helps make your cooking experience more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8 inch square baking pan
- Large saucepan
- Heatproof bowl
- Spatula
- Microwave
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Pan: The 8×8 inch pan is ideal for creating perfectly sized squares that hold their shape well.
- Large Saucepan: A sturdy saucepan helps evenly melt the butter and Mars bars without burning.
- Heatproof Bowl: Essential for melting chocolate safely in the microwave without risk of damage.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 53 gram Mars bars (chopped)
- 3 cups Rice Krispies (aka Rice Bubbles)
For the Topping
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips (or chopped milk chocolate)
How to Make Mars Bar Squares
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Lightly grease an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan. This ensures easy removal once the Mars Bar Squares have set.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Add the unsalted butter to a large saucepan. Gently melt it over low heat until it is fully liquefied.
Step 3: Combine Mars Bars
Once the butter has melted, add the chopped Mars bars. Stir gently as they begin to melt into the butter.
Step 4: Achieve a Smooth Mixture
Continue stirring until you have a smooth mixture. If it starts separating, remove from heat and whisk until combined.
Step 5: Add Rice Krispies
Turn off the burner and fold in the Rice Krispies/Rice Bubbles. Mix until they are well coated with the chocolate mixture.
Step 6: Press into Pan
Spoon the batter into your prepared pan. Use a lightly greased spatula or non-stick spray on your hands to press it down evenly.
Step 7: Melt Chocolate for Topping
In a heatproof bowl, combine milk chocolate chips. Microwave on medium power in 45-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
Step 8: Finish and Set
Spread the melted chocolate over the pressed mixture. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 2 hours until hardened before slicing into squares.
Enjoy your homemade Mars Bar Squares!
How to Serve Mars Bar Squares
Mars Bar Squares are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a sweet snack, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Serve with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
- Bananas: Sliced bananas add creaminess and enhance the overall flavor profile.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Cheesecake Bites: Pair these squares with mini cheesecake bites for a varied dessert experience.
- Brownie Bites: Include fudgy brownie bites to complement the gooey texture of Mars Bar Squares.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a warm chocolate sauce can make them even more decadent.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla flavor balances the rich chocolate and caramel in the squares.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve alongside chocolate ice cream for double the chocolate delight.
How to Perfect Mars Bar Squares
Creating the perfect Mars Bar Squares involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your squares turn out delicious every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your Mars bars and chocolate chips are fresh for the best flavor.
- Melt slowly: Gently melt the butter and Mars bars over low heat to avoid burning and ensure smoothness.
- Press firmly: When spreading the mixture in the pan, press it down firmly for a compact square that holds its shape.
- Let it cool completely: Allow your bars to set at room temperature until fully firm before slicing for clean edges.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Mars Bar Squares
When serving Mars Bar Squares, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great suggestions:
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich squares.
- Vanilla Yogurt – Creamy yogurt adds a tangy element that pairs well with sweet treats.
- Nutty Granola – Crunchy granola can provide an interesting texture when served alongside.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – These elegant treats complement the chocolatey goodness of Mars Bar Squares perfectly.
- Coffee or Tea – A warm beverage helps balance sweetness and enhances the overall experience.
- Ice Cream Sundae – Create an indulgent sundae with scoops of ice cream topped with nuts and syrup, perfect alongside your squares.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mars Bar Squares, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Overheating the mixture: If you melt the chocolate and butter over high heat, they can separate. Always use low heat for a smooth mix.
- Not greasing the pan: Skipping this step can make it hard to remove your Mars Bar Squares later. Lightly grease your baking pan for easy removal.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the bars to set at room temperature is essential. If you cut them too soon, they may crumble.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use precise measurements for the best results. An extra Mars bar or Rice Krispies can change the texture.
- Using old ingredients: Ensure that your Mars bars and chocolate chips are fresh. Stale ingredients can affect taste and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mars Bar Squares in an airtight container.
- They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mars Bar Squares
- Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped squares in a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Mars Bar Squares
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
- Stovetop: Place a square on a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few seconds until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Mars Bar Squares.
Can I use different chocolate bars?
Yes, you can substitute other chocolate bars if you prefer. Just keep the same weight as the Mars bars.
How can I make my Mars Bar Squares gluten-free?
Use gluten-free Rice Krispies or check labels on your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
What variations can I try with Mars Bar Squares?
You can add nuts, dried fruit, or even drizzle with white chocolate for added flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover Mars Bar Squares?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze them for longer storage.
Are Mars Bar Squares suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These squares are fun and easy treats that kids will love making and eating.
Final Thoughts
Mars Bar Squares are a delightful treat that combines gooey chocolate goodness with crunchy Rice Krispies. Their versatility makes them perfect for customization—add nuts or additional toppings to suit your taste. Try this no-bake recipe today and enjoy every bite!
Mars Bar Squares
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Australian
Description
Mars Bar Squares are the ultimate no-bake treat that combines the indulgent flavors of chocolate and caramel with a satisfying crunch from Rice Krispies. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for parties, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The gooey texture and rich chocolate topping create a delightful experience that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 Mars bars (chopped)
- 3 cups Rice Krispies
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions
- Lightly grease an 8×8 inch square baking pan.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the chopped Mars bars and stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat and fold in Rice Krispies until fully coated.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Melt the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Spread melted chocolate on top of the pressed mixture and let set for about 2 hours at room temperature before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
