Mars Bar Squares

What do you get when you melt together chocolate bars and mix them with Rice Krispies? You get a delightful treat known as Mars Bar Squares! This no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. The combination of gooey Mars bars and crunchy Rice Krispies creates a texture that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Topped with smooth milk chocolate, these squares are simply irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious squares without turning on the oven.
• No-Bake Delight: Perfect for warmer days when you want something sweet but don’t want to heat up your kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These treats are sure to impress friends and family alike, making them ideal for parties or potlucks.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the recipe by adding nuts or different chocolate types to suit your taste.
• Fun for Kids: Involve the little ones in making these squares; it’s a fun activity that they’ll love!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan
• Large saucepan
• Spatula
• Heatproof bowl
• Microwave

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Essential for melting the butter and Mars bars evenly over low heat.
• Spatula: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly without damaging the texture of the Rice Krispies.

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.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Add the unsalted butter to a large saucepan. Gently melt it over low heat until it becomes liquid.

Step 3: Add Mars Bars

Once melted, add the chopped Mars bars. Stir the mixture gently as they start to melt.

Step 4: Stir Until Smooth

Continue stirring until smooth. If you notice separation, remove from heat and whisk until combined.

Step 5: Mix in Rice Krispies

Turn off the burner. Stir in the Rice Krispies/Rice Bubbles, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 6: Press Mixture into Pan

Spoon the batter into your prepared pan. Gently press it down using a spatula or greased hands to avoid sticking.

Step 7: Melt Chocolate Topping

In a heatproof bowl, add the milk chocolate chips. Microwave on medium power for 45-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted.

Step 8: Spread Chocolate Over Bars

Spread the melted chocolate mixture over the pressed base. Allow it to sit for about 2 hours at room temperature until hardened before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Mars Bar Squares, perfect for any sweet tooth craving!

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 at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing brings out the chocolatey goodness of the Mars Bar Squares.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: For true chocolate lovers, this combination creates a rich dessert experience.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Warm Caramel: A warm drizzle adds a sweet touch that complements the gooey texture.
• Salted Caramel: For an extra kick, try salted caramel to balance the sweetness.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Raspberries: Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the squares.
• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a juicy, refreshing element to every bite.

Served as Party Favors

• Individually Wrapped: Cut them into smaller squares and wrap them for guests to take home.
• Decorative Platter: Arrange them on a colorful platter for an eye-catching dessert table.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Espresso: A strong coffee enhances the chocolate flavors, making it an ideal companion.
• Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, herbal tea provides a nice contrast to the richness of the bars.

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How to Perfect Mars Bar Squares

To achieve the best Mars Bar Squares, follow these helpful tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality Mars bars and chocolate chips lead to richer flavor and better texture.
• Melt Slowly: Keep the heat low while melting the butter and Mars bars to prevent burning.
• Press Firmly: Ensure you press down firmly when spreading the mixture in the pan; this helps with achieving clean squares after slicing.
• Cool Completely: Allow the squares to cool completely before cutting; this helps maintain their shape and prevents squishing.
• Store Properly: Keep your Mars Bar Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for best freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Mars Bar Squares

When serving Mars Bar Squares, consider these side dishes that will complement their rich flavors.

1. Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the squares.
2. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses; their savory notes create an interesting contrast with dessert.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Provide fruits, pretzels, and marshmallows for dipping alongside your squares for added fun!
4. Nut Mix: A simple bowl of mixed nuts offers crunchy texture and a savory snack option that pairs well.
5. Mini Pies: Small fruit or custard pies make for delightful bites alongside your treats without overwhelming sweetness.
6. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries as a lighter complement that still feels indulgent.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mars Bar Squares can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can detract from their deliciousness. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Ensure you measure your butter and Rice Krispies precisely. Too much or too little can change the texture and flavor of your Mars Bar Squares.
• Overheating the Chocolate: When melting the Mars bars and butter, keep the heat low. Overheating can cause the mixture to separate, ruining the creamy texture.
• Skipping the Grease Step: Always grease your baking pan lightly. This prevents the squares from sticking, making it easier to cut them into perfect pieces.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before melting. Cold ingredients can cause uneven melting and affect the final product.
• Not Letting Them Set Properly: Allow your Mars Bar Squares to cool completely before slicing. Rushing this step can lead to messy squares that fall apart.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Mars Bar Squares in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mars Bar Squares

• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last for up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Mars Bar Squares

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes until slightly soft.
• Microwave: Heat one square at a time on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a square in a non-stick pan over low heat; cover with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mars Bar Squares?

Mars Bar Squares are a no-bake dessert made by combining melted Mars bars, butter, and Rice Krispies. They’re topped with chocolate for an irresistible treat.

Can I customize my Mars Bar Squares?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruit, or even swap out Rice Krispies for other cereals to create different textures and flavors.

How do I know when my Mars Bar Squares are ready?

Your squares should be firm once cooled completely. If they are still soft in the center after cooling, allow more time at room temperature.

Are there any alternatives to Mars bars?

Yes! You can use other chocolate bars like Snickers or Milky Way if you want to experiment with flavors while making your squares.

Final Thoughts

Mars Bar Squares are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With their gooey texture and crunchy base, they make a fantastic treat for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give this easy recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!