Easy Mars Bar Squares Recipes

If you’re in the mood for a simple yet delicious dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven, Mars Bar Squares are exactly what you need. A nostalgic classic that combines the deliciousness of Mars Bars with the crispness of Rice Krispies, all coated in rich chocolate, these squares are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, Mars Bar Squares are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making these quick and easy bars, plus some variations and tips to elevate the recipe even further.

 

Why Mars Bar Squares Are a Must-Try

Mars Bar Squares have remained a beloved dessert for good reason. Here’s why they’re an absolute hit:

• No-Bake Simplicity: This recipe requires no baking at all. You just need a few ingredients, some melting, and a bit of patience for chilling. It’s perfect for those who want a quick dessert without any fuss.
• Classic Flavor Combo: The combination of Mars Bars (or Three Musketeers bars) with Rice Krispies and a chocolate topping is a classic that never gets old. The chewy texture of the Mars Bars, combined with the crispy Rice Krispies and smooth chocolate, creates the perfect bite.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a family get-together, birthday, or a simple evening treat, Mars Bar Squares are versatile enough to suit any event. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make in bulk if you’re expecting a crowd.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love these bars! They’re sweet, chocolatey, and fun to make. Get your little ones involved by having them help mix the ingredients or press the filling into the pan.

These reasons make Mars Bar Squares an excellent choice when you’re looking for a quick and delicious dessert that’s sure to please everyone.

Key Ingredients for Mars Bar Squares

To make Mars Bar Squares, you don’t need much. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

For the Base:

• 4 Mars Bars (or Three Musketeers if you’re in the USA)
• ½ cup salted butter
• 3 cups Rice Krispies

For the Topping:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup salted butter

This recipe’s beauty lies in its simplicity. You likely already have these ingredients at home, and you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a saucepan, a microwave-safe bowl, and a baking pan.

 

How to Make Mars Bar Squares

Making Mars Bar Squares is incredibly easy, and the process is as fun as the end result. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the perfect squares every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Line the Pan: Start by lining an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures the bars are easy to remove once they’ve set.

Step 2: Make the Base

1. Melt the Mars Bars and Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the Mars Bars and butter together, stirring occasionally. The Mars Bars will melt into a smooth, gooey mixture that binds the bars together.
2. Mix with Rice Krispies: Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the Rice Krispies, mixing well so that the cereal is evenly coated with the melted Mars Bars and butter.
3. Press into the Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing it down firmly to create an even base. Ensure the mixture is spread evenly and compacted so that the bars hold together once set.

Step 3: Make the Topping

1. Melt the Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together. Microwave in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
2. Spread the Chocolate: Once the chocolate mixture is smooth, pour it over the Rice Krispies base. Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
3. Set in the Fridge: Place the pan in the fridge and allow the bars to chill for at least 1 hour to set the chocolate topping.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

1. Cut into Squares: Once chilled and the chocolate has hardened, remove the pan from the fridge. Use a sharp knife to slice the bars into squares. Clean the knife between cuts to ensure clean edges.
2. Serve: Serve the squares as a snack, dessert, or treat for guests. These bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Pro Tips for Perfect Mars Bar Squares

While Mars Bar Squares are simple to make, these tips will help you ensure they turn out perfectly every time:

• Use a Sharp Knife: For clean cuts, use a sharp, non-serrated knife. If the chocolate is hard to cut through, try running the knife under hot water and drying it before slicing.
• Don’t Overheat the Mars Bars: When melting the Mars Bars and butter, make sure to melt them slowly and gently to avoid burning the mixture. Stir frequently to ensure everything melts evenly.
• Let the Bars Set: Patience is key—let the bars chill in the fridge for at least an hour to allow the chocolate topping to set properly. If you try to cut them too soon, the chocolate may smear.
• Customize the Topping: If you want to change up the flavor, you can add a layer of crushed nuts, coconut, or even drizzle caramel over the chocolate for an added layer of sweetness.

 

Variations of Mars Bar Squares

While Mars Bar Squares are delicious on their own, there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or to add an exciting twist. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Add Nuts for Extra Crunch

Add a handful of chopped nuts like almonds, cashews, or hazelnuts to the base before pressing it into the pan. This will give your Mars Bar Squares an added crunch and enhance the flavor profile with a nutty twist.

2. Coconut Mars Bar Squares

For a tropical twist, mix in some shredded coconut to the Rice Krispies and Mars Bar mixture. The coconut adds a chewy texture and complements the chocolate and nougat flavors perfectly.

3. Salted Caramel Mars Bar Squares

Drizzle a layer of salted caramel sauce over the Rice Krispies base before adding the chocolate topping. This will add a sweet and salty contrast that elevates the overall flavor.

4. Peanut Butter Mars Bar Squares

If you love peanut butter, add a layer of smooth peanut butter between the Rice Krispies base and the chocolate topping. The creamy peanut butter pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and nougat for a decadent treat.

5. Vegan Mars Bar Squares

For a vegan version, simply substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips for the topping. You’ll still get the same chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor, but with a plant-based twist.

6. Add Dried Fruit

Incorporate dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates into the base to add a chewy and fruity element. This will also add some natural sweetness and make the bars even more interesting.

Storing and Freezing Mars Bar Squares

Once you’ve made your delicious Mars Bar Squares, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh. Here’s how you can store and even freeze them for later enjoyment:

Storing:

• Room Temperature: Mars Bar Squares can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If it’s a particularly hot day, store them in a cool place or in the fridge to prevent the chocolate from melting.
• Refrigeration: If you want your Mars Bar Squares to last longer, or if the weather is warm, store them in the refrigerator. They will last for up to a week in the fridge. The chocolate topping may harden more in the fridge, but the squares will still taste just as delicious.

Freezing:

1. Freeze Individually: For longer storage, freeze the squares. Simply cut them into bars and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the bars for about 2 hours until they’re firm.
2. Wrap and Store: Once frozen, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
3. Thaw and Serve: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the fridge for a few hours or leave them at room temperature for 30 minutes. They’ll taste just as fresh as the day you made them!

 

Nutritional Benefits of Mars Bar Squares

While Mars Bar Squares are indulgent, they do provide some nutritional benefits, especially when compared to store-bought candies. Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients and their benefits:

• Rice Krispies: These provide a good source of carbohydrates for energy. They’re also low in fat, making them a more balanced base for this sweet treat.
• Mars Bars: The nougat in the Mars Bars contains protein, though they are high in sugar. When paired with the Rice Krispies, they create a satisfying texture and flavor.
• Butter: While butter is a source of saturated fat, it also provides essential fatty acids that are needed in small amounts for proper cell function.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate, when used as a topping, can provide antioxidants and improve heart health when consumed in moderation. It also adds that rich, indulgent flavor that makes these squares irresistible.

Although Mars Bar Squares should be enjoyed as an occasional treat due to their sugar content, they do provide a satisfying combination of flavors and energy-boosting ingredients. If you’re looking for a quick snack or dessert, they’re a much better option than many store-bought sweets.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Mars Bar Squares

Even though Mars Bar Squares are straightforward to make, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Below, we address some common issues and offer solutions to make sure your squares are just as delicious as intended:

1. Chocolate Topping Doesn’t Set Properly

• Possible Cause: The chocolate mixture wasn’t allowed to cool properly before pouring onto the base, or the temperature of the fridge wasn’t cold enough.
• Solution: Ensure the chocolate is melted smoothly and let it cool slightly before spreading it over the base. Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set completely. If your fridge is too warm, consider placing the bars in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.

2. Base Is Too Soft

• Possible Cause: The Rice Krispies mixture wasn’t pressed down firmly enough, causing the bars to fall apart.
• Solution: When you press the mixture into the pan, use the back of a spoon or a piece of parchment paper to press it down firmly. This will help the base hold together when sliced.

3. Mars Bars Won’t Melt Smoothly

• Possible Cause: The Mars Bars were heated too quickly or at too high of a temperature, causing them to seize or burn.
• Solution: When melting the Mars Bars, use low to medium heat and stir frequently. If using a microwave, heat the mixture in short bursts (15-20 seconds), stirring after each interval.

4. Bars Are Too Hard After Chilling

• Possible Cause: The bars were refrigerated for too long or the ratio of chocolate to butter in the topping was too high, causing the chocolate to become too firm.
• Solution: If the bars are too hard, simply allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Also, ensure you’re using the correct amount of butter in the topping to maintain the right consistency.

5. Uneven Distribution of Rice Krispies

• Possible Cause: The Rice Krispies weren’t mixed evenly with the melted Mars Bars and butter, causing clumps or pockets of dry cereal.
• Solution: After melting the Mars Bars and butter, mix the Rice Krispies thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated. You may also want to gently press the mixture down to ensure it’s compact and even before setting it in the fridge.

 

Conclusion

Mars Bar Squares are an easy, delicious, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for every occasion. Their simple ingredients and no-bake nature make them incredibly quick to prepare, while the combination of gooey Mars Bars, crispy Rice Krispies, and smooth chocolate provides a flavor and texture that’s irresistible.

From parties to picnics to family gatherings, Mars Bar Squares are sure to be a hit wherever you serve them. Customize them with nuts, coconut, or even caramel for a twist, or stick to the classic recipe for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat.

Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just making a batch for yourself, these squares are bound to satisfy your sweet cravings without the need for baking. Plus, they store well in the fridge, so you can enjoy them over the course of several days!

So why wait? Grab your ingredients and get started on these delectable Mars Bar Squares today. They’re guaranteed to be a favorite in your dessert lineup!