Mars Bar Squares

What do you get when you melt together chocolate bars and mix them with Rice Krispies? You get the indulgent and delightful Mars Bar Squares! These delicious, no-bake treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. With their gooey, crunchy texture and a luscious layer of chocolate on top, they are truly addictive. Plus, they are easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them a favorite among both novice cooks and experienced bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
• No-Bake Delight: Enjoy this sweet treat without the need for an oven—perfect for hot days or when you’re short on time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of melted Mars bars with crispy rice cereal creates a rich, satisfying taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Cut them into small squares for a party platter or larger pieces for a satisfying snack; these bars fit any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen with this fun and interactive recipe!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Mars Bar Squares, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Heatproof bowl
• Spatula
• 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Perfect for melting butter and Mars bars evenly without burning them.
• Heatproof bowl: Ensures safe melting of chocolate in the microwave while preventing any accidents.
• Spatula: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly and press down the mixture into the baking pan.

Ingredients

For the Bars

• 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 ensure easy removal of your Mars Bar Squares later.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Add the unsalted butter to a medium saucepan over low heat. Gently melt the butter until it is completely liquid.

Step 3: Add Mars Bars

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

Step 4: Mix Until Smooth

Continue stirring until you have a smooth mixture. If it starts to separate, remove from heat and whisk until combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Rice Krispies

Turn off the burner. Stir in the Rice Krispies, mixing until they are fully coated in the chocolate mixture.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Pan

Spoon the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a lightly greased spatula or non-stick cooking spray on your hands to press it down evenly.

Step 7: Melt Chocolate Chips

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

Step 8: Spread Chocolate Topping

Spread the melted chocolate over your pressed mixture in the pan. Let sit at room temperature for about 2 hours or until hardened before slicing into squares.

Enjoy these delightful Mars Bar Squares as a treat that everyone will love!

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 just treating yourself, these squares can be served in numerous creative styles.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Mars Bar Squares on a beautiful platter alongside fresh fruits for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

With Coffee or Tea

• Serve these squares with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• The sweetness of the squares complements the bitterness of coffee perfectly.

At Parties

• Cut Mars Bar Squares into smaller pieces for easy snacking at parties and gatherings.
• They make great additions to dessert buffets alongside other treats.

Gift Wrapping

• Package individual squares in decorative bags as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Add personalized tags for an extra special touch.

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How to Perfect Mars Bar Squares

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your Mars Bar Squares, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your butter and chocolate are fresh for the best taste.
• Melt slowly: Melt the butter and Mars bars over low heat to prevent burning.
• Avoid overmixing: Once combined with Rice Krispies, mix gently to maintain crunchiness.
• Chill properly: Allow the squares to sit until fully set before cutting for neat slices.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding nuts or drizzling caramel for added flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Mars Bar Squares

Mars Bar Squares can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some fantastic side dish ideas.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the chewy bars.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce on top for an extra indulgent treat.
4. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it creates a lovely contrast with the dense squares.
5. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and nuttiness to each bite.
6. Biscuit Crumble: Crushed biscuits can add an interesting texture when served alongside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mars Bar Squares, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your treat turns out perfectly.

• Overheating the Butter: Melting butter too quickly can cause it to separate. Always use low heat and melt gently for a smooth mixture.
• Not Chopping Mars Bars Properly: Large chunks may not melt evenly. Chop the Mars bars into small pieces for consistent melting and blending.
• Skipping Greasing the Pan: Not greasing can lead to sticking. Lightly grease your baking pan to ensure easy removal of the squares.
• Using Cold Rice Krispies: Cold cereal may not mix well with warm chocolate. Allow Rice Krispies to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Rushing Cooling Time: Cutting too soon can lead to messy squares. Let them cool completely to set properly before slicing.

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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 individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Mars Bar Squares

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap squares in foil and heat for 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a square on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat, placing a single square until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Mars Bar Squares.

Can I use other chocolate bars instead of Mars Bars?

Yes! You can substitute with Snickers or Milky Way for a different flavor profile.

How do I make vegan Mars Bar Squares?

Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips as substitutes for traditional ingredients.

What if I don’t have Rice Krispies?

You can use any puffed rice cereal or even crushed cornflakes as an alternative.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to my Mars Bar Squares?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture.

Final Thoughts

Mars Bar Squares are an irresistible treat that combines gooey chocolate with crunchy Rice Krispies. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether as a dessert or snack. Feel free to customize them with your favorite additions, like nuts or dried fruits, to make them uniquely yours!