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 AKA Mars Bar Slice. They’re gooey, crunchy, topped with milk chocolate, and absolutely addictive. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply a sweet treat at home, these squares are sure to impress anyone who tries them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
- No Baking Required: You don’t need an oven to create these delightful squares. Just melt and mix!
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, caramel from the Mars bars, and crispy Rice Krispies creates a mouthwatering treat.
- Versatile Treat: These squares can be enjoyed at various occasions—birthdays, holidays, or even as a snack.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen with this fun and simple recipe.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Mars Bar Squares, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan
- Microwave-safe bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large saucepan: This allows you to melt the butter and Mars bars evenly without burning them.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients together thoroughly while preventing scratches on your cookware.
- 8×8 inch pan: The perfect size for this recipe ensures even distribution of your mixture for consistent squares.
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 will help prevent sticking when it’s time to slice your treats.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Add the unsalted butter to a large saucepan and gently melt it over low heat until completely liquid.
Step 3: Add Mars Bars
Add the chopped Mars bars to the melted butter. Stir gently as they begin to soften and melt together.
Step 4: Combine Until Smooth
Continuously stir until the mixture is smooth. If you notice any separation between butter and chocolate, remove from heat and whisk until combined.
Step 5: Mix in Rice Krispies
Once melted, turn off the burner. Stir in the Rice Krispies/Rice Bubbles, ensuring they are fully coated with the chocolate mixture.
Step 6: Transfer Mixture to Pan
Spoon the mixture into your prepared pan. Gently press it down using either a greased spatula or your hands (spray with non-stick cooking spray if needed).
Step 7: Melt Chocolate for Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, add milk chocolate chips. Microwave on medium power in 45-second intervals, stirring in between each until almost melted. Stir until smooth.
Step 8: Final Touches
Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the bars. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 2 hours or until hardened before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delightful 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 gathering or simply indulging at home, these squares can be served in several appealing styles.
For Parties
- Cut into small bites: Slice the squares into smaller pieces for easy snacking. They make perfect finger food for guests.
- Serve with ice cream: Pair the Mars Bar Squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast that enhances their chocolatey goodness.
As a Dessert Platter
- Mix with fresh fruit: Arrange the squares alongside strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing touch. The tartness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the bars.
- Add whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra layer of indulgence.
Personal Treats
- Enjoy with coffee or tea: Pairing these squares with your favorite beverage makes for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Pack in lunchboxes: Cut them into smaller portions and add them to lunchboxes for a sweet surprise during the day.
How to Perfect Mars Bar Squares
Creating perfect Mars Bar Squares involves attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your treats.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are fresh, especially the Mars bars and butter, to achieve the best flavor.
- Melt gently: When melting the butter and Mars bars, do so over low heat to prevent burning and to maintain smoothness.
- Press firmly: When spreading the mixture into the pan, press it down firmly but gently. This ensures that your squares hold together well when cut.
- Cool completely: Allow the squares to cool at room temperature fully before slicing. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.
Best Side Dishes for Mars Bar Squares
Mars Bar Squares are delightful on their own but can be complemented by various side dishes that create a balanced dessert experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the squares.
- Chocolate Mousse: A rich mousse contrasts beautifully with the crunchy texture of Mars Bar Squares.
- Cheese Platter: Serve with mild cheeses like brie or gouda for an interesting flavor combination.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of ice cream pairs perfectly and enhances the chocolatey flavors.
- Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee provides a bitter note that balances the sweetness of your dessert.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over each square before serving for an added layer of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mars Bar Squares, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping greasing the pan: Not greasing your baking pan can make it hard to remove the squares later. Always lightly grease the pan to ensure easy removal.
- Overheating chocolate: Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize. Use low heat and stir often for smooth melting.
- Not pressing firmly enough: If you don’t press down the mixture well, your squares might crumble. Use a spatula or greased hands to compact it tightly.
- Using stale Rice Krispies: Old cereal can affect texture and taste. Ensure your Rice Krispies are fresh for the best crunch.
- Cutting too soon: Cutting Mars Bar Squares before they fully set can lead to messy edges. Allow them to sit for at least 2 hours at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mars Bar Squares in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will last up to 1 week when stored properly.
Freezing Mars Bar Squares
- Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Mars Bar Squares
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place squares on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a square on medium power for 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing squares in briefly just until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Mars Bar Squares that might help you out.
Can I use other chocolate bars instead of Mars bars?
Yes! You can substitute with Snickers or any other similar chocolate bar for a unique twist on this recipe.
How do I make vegan Mars Bar Squares?
To make vegan Mars Bar Squares, use dairy-free butter and dark chocolate chips that do not contain milk.
What is the best way to slice Mars Bar Squares?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water; this prevents sticking and makes cleaner cuts.
How long does it take for Mars Bar Squares to set?
Mars Bar Squares need about 2 hours at room temperature or quicker if placed in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
Mars Bar Squares are an irresistible treat that combines gooey chocolate with crunchy Rice Krispies. Their no-bake nature makes them perfect for any occasion, and they’re easily customizable! Feel free to add nuts or swap ingredients based on your preferences. Enjoy making these delightful squares!
Mars Bar Squares
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Mars Bar Squares, a no-bake treat that promises gooey chocolate goodness and crispy textures. This quick and easy recipe transforms crunchy Rice Krispies into a decadent dessert, topped with smooth milk chocolate. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a sweet treat at home, these squares are sure to impress everyone with their irresistible flavor. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can create a batch that will satisfy your sweet cravings without ever turning on the oven!
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.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Add chopped Mars bars and stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in Rice Krispies until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt milk chocolate chips in intervals until smooth. Spread over the base.
- Allow to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (45g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
