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! These no-bake treats are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual family gatherings. With their gooey texture, crunchy layers, and a luscious chocolate topping, they’re bound to satisfy your sweet cravings. Easy to prepare and incredibly delicious, these squares are a must-try for chocolate lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No Baking Required: These Mars Bar Squares come together without turning on the oven, making them perfect for hot days.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this treat in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of melted Mars bars and crispy Rice Krispies creates a unique taste that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet snack at home!
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Mars Bar Squares, gather your tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan
• Large saucepan
• Stirring spoon or spatula
• Heatproof bowl for melting chocolate
• Microwave or stovetop

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 inch baking pan: This size is ideal for creating perfectly shaped squares that are easy to slice.
• Large saucepan: A spacious pan allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spilling.
• Heatproof bowl: Necessary 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 Baking Pan

Lightly grease an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan. This will prevent your squares from sticking later on.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Add the unsalted butter to a large saucepan over low heat. Gently melt it while stirring occasionally until fully liquid.

Step 3: Melt the Mars Bars

Once the butter has melted, add the chopped Mars bars. Stir continuously as they begin to melt, ensuring a smooth mixture. If it starts to separate, remove from heat immediately and whisk until combined.

Step 4: Mix in Rice Krispies

After achieving a smooth consistency, turn off the burner and stir in the Rice Krispies. Make sure they are well-coated with the melted mixture.

Step 5: Press into Pan

Spoon the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula or greased hands to gently press it down evenly.

Step 6: Melt Chocolate Topping

In a heatproof bowl, add milk chocolate chips. Microwave them on medium power in 45-second intervals. Stir between each interval until almost fully melted; then mix until smooth.

Step 7: Add Chocolate Layer

Spread the melted chocolate over your pressed mixture evenly. Let it sit at room temperature for about two hours or until fully hardened.

Step 8: Cut and Serve

Once set, slice into squares and enjoy your delicious homemade Mars Bar Squares!

How to Serve Mars Bar Squares

Mars Bar Squares are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as an afternoon treat, these squares are always a hit. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Mars Bar experience.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the gooeyness of the Mars Bar Squares.
• Chocolate Ice Cream – For chocolate lovers, pairing these squares with chocolate ice cream adds an extra layer of decadence.

As a Party Platter

• Bite-Sized Pieces – Cut the squares into smaller pieces for easy sharing. This makes them perfect for gatherings and events.
• Mixed Treats – Combine Mars Bar Squares with other treats like brownies and cookies for a varied dessert platter.

Drizzled with Sauce

• Caramel Sauce – A drizzle of warm caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely contrast.
• Chocolate Sauce – For more chocolatey goodness, drizzle melted chocolate over the top just before serving.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Berries – Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a tart balance against the sweet squares.
• Bananas – Sliced bananas add a nice texture and flavor that pairs well with the chocolate.

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How to Perfect Mars Bar Squares

To achieve the best Mars Bar Squares, keep these tips in mind. They can make all the difference in taste and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients – Ensure your Mars bars are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Don’t rush melting – Melt the butter and Mars bars slowly over low heat to prevent any burning or separation.
• Press firmly – When transferring the mixture into the pan, press it down firmly to create dense, well-formed squares.
• Let cool completely – Allowing them to cool completely ensures they hold their shape when sliced. Patience is key!
• Experiment with toppings – Consider adding nuts or sprinkles on top of the chocolate layer for added crunch and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Mars Bar Squares

Mars Bar Squares can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich squares.
2. Whipped Cream – Light whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that pairs well with the dense squares.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses balances sweetness with savory flavors, creating an interesting combination.
4. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of Mars Bar Squares into warm chocolate for an indulgent treat.
5. Coffee or Tea – A cup of coffee or tea provides warmth and can help cut through the sweetness of the dessert.
6. Nutty Granola – Serve alongside crunchy granola for added texture and nutrition, enhancing your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mars Bar Squares is simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Overheating the Mixture: Melting chocolate and butter too quickly can cause separation. Always use low heat and stir gently.
• Not Pressing Firmly: If you don’t press the mixture firmly into the pan, your bars may crumble. Use a spatula or greased hands to compact it well.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting into warm bars can lead to a messy result. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
• Using the Wrong Chocolate: Substituting dark chocolate might change the taste significantly. Stick with milk chocolate for authentic flavor.
• Ignoring Storage Tips: Storing them improperly can lead to sogginess. Make sure they are in an airtight container.

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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

• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
• They can be frozen for up to three months for best quality.

Reheating Mars Bar Squares

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 15-second intervals until just warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a few squares in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until melted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mars Bar Squares, along with their answers.

What are Mars Bar Squares?

Mars Bar Squares are a no-bake dessert made from melted Mars bars, butter, and Rice Krispies, topped with milk chocolate.

Can I customize my Mars Bar Squares?

Yes! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even swap out Rice Krispies for other cereals for a different texture.

How do I make vegan Mars Bar Squares?

Replace the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips along with vegan-friendly Mars bars if available.

Why did my bars not set properly?

If the mixture was too warm when poured into the pan or not pressed down enough, they may not set correctly. Ensure proper cooling and pressing techniques.

Final Thoughts

Mars Bar Squares are an irresistible treat that combines gooey sweetness with crispy crunch. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and textures.