Mars Bar Squares
What do you get when you melt together chocolate bars and mix them with Rice Krispies? You get the delightful Mars Bar Squares! This no-bake treat is perfect for any occasion—be it a party, a picnic, or just a cozy night in. The gooey texture combined with a satisfying crunch makes these squares irresistibly delicious. With their rich chocolate flavor and ease of preparation, Mars Bar Squares are bound to become your go-to dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious dessert in no time.
- No Baking Required – Perfect for hot days or when you simply don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Crowd-Pleaser – These treats are sure to impress friends and family with their gooey goodness.
- Versatile Ingredients – Substitute ingredients easily based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual gathering, these squares fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick baking pan (8×8 inch)
- Large saucepan
- Heatproof bowl
- Spatula
- Microwave-safe dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick baking pan – This ensures easy removal of your Mars Bar Squares without sticking.
- Large saucepan – A spacious pot is needed for melting the ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Heatproof bowl – Important for safely melting chocolate without risk of breaking the bowl.
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 Pan
Lightly grease an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan. This will help prevent sticking when you remove the squares later.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Add the unsalted butter to a large saucepan. Gently melt the butter over low heat until fully liquefied.
Step 3: Add Mars Bars
Once melted, add the chopped Mars bars. Stir gently as they begin to melt into the butter.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth. If it starts to separate, remove from heat and whisk until fully blended.
Step 5: Mix in Rice Krispies
Turn off the burner and stir in the Rice Krispies. Ensure they are evenly coated with the melted mixture.
Step 6: Press into Pan
Spoon the mixture into your prepared pan. Gently press it down using a spatula or greased hands to create an even layer.
Step 7: Melt Chocolate
In a heatproof bowl, add the milk chocolate chips. Microwave on medium power for 45-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Step 8: Add Topping
Spread the melted chocolate over the pressed mixture. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 2 hours or until hardened before slicing into squares.
Enjoy your delicious 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 gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these squares can be served to suit the occasion.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream adds a creamy complement to the rich chocolate and caramel flavors.
- Chocolate Ice Cream – For chocolate lovers, serve with chocolate ice cream to enhance the cocoa experience.
- Salted Caramel Ice Cream – The salty-sweet contrast elevates the taste of Mars Bar Squares beautifully.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Fresh Fruit – Include slices of strawberries or bananas for a refreshing balance.
- Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream on top adds an airy texture.
- Mini Pastries – Pair with small pastries for a more indulgent dessert tray.
During Movie Night
- Popcorn – Offer sweet popcorn alongside for a fun and crunchy snack combo.
- Candy Selection – Create a candy board with gummies and chocolates, including your Mars Bar Squares for variety.
At Tea Time
- Tea or Coffee – Serve with your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Biscotti – Crunchy biscotti can add an interesting texture alongside the soft squares.
How to Perfect Mars Bar Squares
To ensure your Mars Bar Squares turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Make sure your Mars bars and chocolate are within their expiry date for optimal flavor.
- Melt slowly – Always melt the butter and chocolate on low heat to avoid burning, creating a smooth mixture.
- Press firmly – When spreading the mixture into the pan, press down firmly to ensure they hold together once set.
- Cool completely – Allow your squares to fully cool at room temperature before slicing; this helps them maintain their shape.
- Store properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Mars Bar Squares
While Mars Bar Squares are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great suggestions:
- Fresh Berries – Raspberries or blueberries provide a fruity tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the squares.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar can create an interesting contrast with the sweetness.
- Churros – Serve warm churros dusted with cinnamon sugar for a delightful crunch alongside your squares.
- Nut Mix – A mix of toasted nuts adds an earthy flavor that pairs well with chocolate treats.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce – Melted chocolate served on the side allows guests to dip their squares for extra indulgence.
- Caramel Sauce – Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each square for an extra layer of richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Mars Bar Squares is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Not greasing the pan: Failing to grease your baking pan can make it difficult to remove the squares later. Always use a little oil or cooking spray to ensure easy removal.
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Overheating the chocolate: If you heat the chocolate too quickly, it can burn. Use low heat and stir frequently to achieve a smooth consistency.
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Not pressing firmly enough: If you don’t press the mixture firmly into the pan, your squares may crumble when cut. Use a spatula or your hands to compact the mixture well.
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Skipping the cooling time: Rushing to cut into the bars before they cool can lead to messy results. Allow them to sit for at least two hours at room temperature.
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Using old Rice Krispies: Stale Rice Krispies will not provide the desired crunchiness. Ensure your cereal is fresh for the best texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mars Bar Squares in an airtight container.
- They can stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mars Bar Squares
- Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Mars Bar Squares
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place squares on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until just warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, warming squares gently while flipping them occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Mars Bar Squares:
How long do Mars Bar Squares last?
Mars Bar Squares stay fresh for about a week when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I customize my Mars Bar Squares?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or swap out Rice Krispies for other cereals to suit your taste.
What are Mars Bar Squares?
Mars Bar Squares are delicious no-bake treats made by melting chocolate bars and combining them with Rice Krispies for a crunchy texture.
Can I use other chocolate bars?
Yes! Feel free to substitute Mars bars with other chocolate bars like Snickers or Milky Way for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
These Mars Bar Squares are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Their combination of gooey chocolate and crunchy Rice Krispies makes them a hit at any gathering. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Mars Bar Squares
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 16 squares 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Mars Bar Squares—an irresistible no-bake treat that combines the rich flavors of melted Mars bars with the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, picnic, or cozy night in, these squares offer a deliciously gooey and crunchy experience. With minimal preparation required, you can whip up a batch in no time at all. This versatile dessert also allows for ingredient substitutions based on your pantry staples or dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for everyone. Dive into this easy-to-follow guide and enjoy these decadent treats today!
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.
- Add the chopped Mars bars and stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in Rice Krispies until evenly coated.
- Spoon and press the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Melt milk chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, then spread over the pressed mixture.
- Let cool at room temperature for about 2 hours before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (45g)
- Calories: 202
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
