Mars Bar Squares

What do you get when you melt together chocolate bars and mix them with Rice Krispies? You create irresistible Mars Bar Squares, also known as Mars Bar Slice. These delicious, no-bake treats are gooey, crunchy, and topped with smooth milk chocolate. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet snack at home, they are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these tasty bars in no time.
• No-Bake Delight: Skip the oven and enjoy a cool treat that’s perfect for warm days.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in the kitchen to help mix and press down the ingredients.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the recipe by adding nuts or using different chocolate types.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dessert, these squares fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Mars Bar Squares, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Large saucepan
• Heatproof bowl
• Spatula
• Microwave

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 inch baking pan: This specific size ensures your bars set evenly and are easy to slice.
• Large saucepan: A spacious saucepan allows for easy melting of butter and Mars bars without overflowing.
• Heatproof bowl: It’s essential for melting chocolate safely in the microwave without risk of cracking or breaking.

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

In a large saucepan, add the unsalted butter. Place it over low heat until melted.

Step 3: Add Mars Bars

Once melted, add the chopped Mars bars. Stir gently as they begin to melt into the butter.

Step 4: Create a Smooth Mixture

Continuously stir until fully combined. If separation occurs, remove from heat and whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Incorporate Rice Krispies

Turn off the burner and fold in the Rice Krispies, mixing well until evenly coated.

Step 6: Press Mixture into Pan

Spoon the mixture into your prepared pan. Press it down firmly using a greased spatula or your hands.

Step 7: Melt Chocolate for Topping

In a heatproof bowl, add your milk chocolate chips. Microwave on medium power for 45-second intervals, stirring after each. Continue until almost melted, then stir until smooth.

Step 8: Add Chocolate Layer

Spread the melted chocolate evenly over your pressed mixture. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 2 hours or 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 just indulging in a sweet snack, these squares are sure to please everyone.

At a Party

• Serve them on a platter for guests to grab and enjoy. Their gooey, crunchy texture makes them perfect finger foods.

With Ice Cream

• Pair a square with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. The combination of chocolate and creamy ice cream is irresistible.

As Lunchbox Treats

• Cut the squares into smaller pieces to pack in lunchboxes. They make for a sweet surprise at school or work.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy Mars Bar Squares with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The sweetness complements the bitterness of the drink beautifully.

As Dessert After Dinner

• Serve these squares as a simple yet delicious dessert after dinner. They can be easily sliced and shared among family members.

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How to Perfect Mars Bar Squares

To ensure your Mars Bar Squares turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Make sure your Mars bars and chocolate chips are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Low heat melting: Melt the butter and chocolate over low heat to avoid burning, ensuring a smooth mixture.
• Press firmly: When spreading the mixture into the baking pan, press it down firmly for evenly shaped squares.
• Chill before slicing: Allow the squares to sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens before cutting for cleaner slices.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add nuts or sprinkles on top of the chocolate layer for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mars Bar Squares

Mars Bar Squares pair well with various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the squares.

2. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   These rich berries complement the chocolatey flavors of the squares perfectly.

3. Mini Cheesecakes
   Small cheesecakes add a creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy texture.

4. Coffee Cake
   A slice of moist coffee cake makes an excellent accompaniment during brunch or afternoon tea.

5. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the squares for an extra decadent treat.

6. Homemade Whipped Cream
   Light whipped cream offers a fluffy texture that contrasts nicely with the dense bars.

7. Nutty Granola Bars
   These provide a crunchy, slightly healthy option alongside your sweet treats.

8. Chocolate Mousse
   Rich chocolate mousse enhances the overall chocolate experience when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mars Bar Squares is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your treat. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Not greasing the pan properly: Failing to grease the baking pan can make it difficult to remove your squares once set. Use non-stick spray or butter to ensure easy removal.
• Overheating the chocolate: Melting chocolate too fast can cause it to seize. Always melt chocolate slowly over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into your Mars Bar Squares too soon will result in a gooey mess. Allow them to cool for at least two hours for best results.
• Using stale Rice Krispies: Old rice cereal can lose its crunch and texture. Make sure your Rice Krispies are fresh for that perfect crispy bite.
• Not pressing mixture firmly: If you don’t press the mixture down firmly into the pan, your squares may crumble when cut. Use a spatula or your hands to pack it tightly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mars Bar Squares in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Mars Bar Squares

• Cut the squares before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Mars Bar Squares

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10 minutes until just softened.
• Microwave: Heat squares individually for about 15 seconds on medium power for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Place a square in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm until slightly melted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mars Bar Squares.

What are Mars Bar Squares?

Mars Bar Squares, also known as Mars Bar Slice, are no-bake treats made by melting together Mars bars and mixing them with Rice Krispies for a delightful dessert.

Can I use other chocolate bars instead of Mars bars?

Yes! You can substitute other chocolate bars like Snickers or Milky Way if you prefer different flavors.

How do I customize my Mars Bar Squares?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even different cereals to create unique variations of this classic treat.

Why are my Mars Bar Squares too sticky?

If your squares are sticky, it may be due to not using enough Rice Krispies or melting the ingredients improperly. Make sure to follow the recipe closely.

How long do these treats last?

When stored properly, Mars Bar Squares will last about one week in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Mars Bar Squares are an irresistible treat that combines gooey chocolate with crunchy Rice Krispies. They’re perfect for any occasion and can easily be customized with your favorite mix-ins. Give this no-bake dessert a try—you won’t be disappointed!