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. They are gooey, crunchy, topped with milk chocolate, and absolutely addictive! Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple weekend treat, these squares will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Their easy preparation and delightful flavor make them a favorite among both kids and adults.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these treats in no time.
- No-Bake Delight: No oven required! Simply melt and mix for a hassle-free dessert.
- Gooey and Crunchy: The combination of melted Mars bars and Rice Krispies creates a perfect texture balance.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or snack; they’re great for various occasions!
- Kid-Friendly Activity: Involve the kids in making these squares for a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare these delicious Mars Bar Squares, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process seamless and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Heatproof bowl
- 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan
- Spatula
- Microwave
Importance of Each Tool
- Large saucepan: Ideal for melting the butter and Mars bars evenly without burning them.
- Heatproof bowl: Necessary for melting the chocolate chips safely in the microwave.
- Spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients thoroughly and pressing down the mixture into the baking pan.
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 Your Baking Pan
Lightly grease an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Add the unsalted butter to a large saucepan. Gently melt over low heat until fully liquefied.
Step 3: Add Mars Bars
Stir in the chopped Mars bars. Mix gently as they begin to melt, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Continuously stir until smooth. If separation occurs, remove from heat and whisk until combined.
Step 5: Add Rice Krispies
Once melted, turn off the burner and stir in the Rice Krispies. Mix well until all cereal is coated.
Step 6: Press into Pan
Spoon the mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down gently using a greased spatula or non-stick spray on your hands.
Step 7: Melt Chocolate for Topping
In a heatproof bowl, add the milk chocolate chips. Microwave on medium power for 45 seconds at a time, stirring in between until melted.
Step 8: Finish with Chocolate Topping
Spread the melted chocolate over the rice mixture in the pan. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 2 hours until set before slicing into 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 enjoying a quiet evening at home, these squares are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
As a Party Snack
- Cut into bite-sized pieces: Make them easier to share by slicing into small squares.
- Serve with whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that pairs well with the rich bars.
With Ice Cream
- Top with vanilla ice cream: The classic combination of chocolate and vanilla creates a perfect contrast.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce: Enhance the chocolate flavor by adding a warm drizzle of chocolate on top.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include fresh fruits: Add strawberries or bananas for a refreshing touch.
- Pair with other treats: Combine Mars Bar Squares with brownies or cookies for variety on your dessert table.
How to Perfect Mars Bar Squares
To achieve the best Mars Bar Squares, follow these helpful tips to enhance their texture and flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your Mars bars and chocolate chips are fresh for optimal taste.
- Cool completely before slicing: Allow the squares to set fully before cutting to avoid crumbling.
- Store properly: Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming too sticky.
- Experiment with toppings: Consider adding nuts or sprinkles on top of the melted chocolate for extra crunch and color.
Best Side Dishes for Mars Bar Squares
While Mars Bar Squares are delightful on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of berries, melons, and citrus adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the squares.
- Creamy Cheesecake: The richness of cheesecake provides a delicious contrast to the chewy texture of the squares.
- Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy mousse pairs beautifully with the dense Mars Bar Squares for an indulgent combo.
- Coffee or Espresso: A strong coffee enhances the chocolate flavors while providing a nice caffeine boost.
- Nutty Granola: Serve alongside granola for added crunch and complexity in flavor.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats complement the chocolate nicely while adding tropical flair.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Mars Bar Squares is simple, but common mistakes can ruin your delicious treat. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using too much heat: Melting the butter and Mars bars over high heat can cause them to separate. Always melt on low heat for a smooth mixture.
- Not greasing the pan: Failing to grease your baking pan can make it hard to remove the squares later. Use a light coating of oil or cooking spray for easy removal.
- Overmixing Rice Krispies: Stirring the Rice Krispies too vigorously can crush them, leading to a less crunchy texture. Gently fold them in instead.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the squares before the chocolate sets makes a messy treat. Allow at least 2 hours for proper cooling and setting.
- Using old ingredients: Check the freshness of your Mars bars and chocolate chips. Using stale ingredients can affect taste and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mars Bar Squares in an airtight container.
- They will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing Mars Bar Squares
- Wrap squares individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating Mars Bar Squares
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm squares for about 5-10 minutes until just soft.
- Microwave: Heat one square at a time for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
- Stovetop: Place squares in a non-stick skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Mars Bar Squares:
Can I use other chocolate bars?
Yes! You can substitute different chocolate bars for Mars bars, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile.
How do I make gluten-free Mars Bar Squares?
Simply use gluten-free Rice Krispies and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
What if my mixture is too sticky?
If your mixture is sticky, lightly greasing your hands or spatula with cooking spray will help you handle it better while pressing into the pan.
Can I add nuts to my Mars Bar Squares?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like peanuts or almonds can add extra crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Mars Bar Squares are an irresistible treat that anyone can enjoy. Their mix of gooey chocolate and crispy rice cereal makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize these squares by adding different toppings or mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit. Try making them today and delight your family and friends with this easy dessert!
Mars Bar Squares
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful balance of gooey chocolate and crunchy Rice Krispies with these irresistible Mars Bar Squares. This easy no-bake treat combines melted Mars bars and Rice Krispies for a sweet, addictive dessert that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy family gathering. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can create a batch of these heavenly squares that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Topped with a rich layer of chocolate, they’re not only delicious but also a fun cooking activity to enjoy with kids. Make these Mars Bar Squares today and watch them disappear in no time!
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 baking pan.
- In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
- Stir in the chopped Mars bars until smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in the Rice Krispies until fully coated.
- Press the mixture into the greased pan using a spatula.
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the milk chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Spread the melted chocolate over the Rice Krispie mixture.
- Let set at room temperature for about 2 hours before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Australian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
