Chewy, chocolatey, and utterly nostalgic, Mars Bar slice is a beloved treat that combines sweet simplicity with rich flavors. Known for its gooey texture and crowd-pleasing appeal, this no-bake dessert is especially popular in Australia and the UK. Made with just a few basic ingredients Mars Bars, butter, rice bubbles, and chocolate this slice is quick to prepare and satisfies sweet cravings in the best way. Whether you’re looking for a fun snack, a lunchbox filler, or an easy party dessert, a classic Mars Bar slice recipe delivers every time.
What Is a Mars Bar Slice?
A Mars Bar slice is a dessert bar made using chopped Mars Bars melted with butter and mixed into puffed rice cereal. The mixture is pressed into a baking tin, then topped with a smooth layer of melted chocolate. After chilling in the refrigerator, the slice is cut into squares or bars. It’s rich, slightly chewy, and has the perfect balance of crunch and smoothness, thanks to the rice cereal and melted chocolate topping.
The Popularity of Mars Bar Slice
This no-bake dessert has become a staple in home kitchens and bake sales due to how easy and delicious it is. The combination of chocolate, caramel, and nougat from the Mars Bars melts into the butter, creating a sticky and decadent mixture that binds the cereal together. It’s simple, fast, and doesn’t require any baking, making it ideal for beginner cooks or anyone short on time.
Ingredients for Mars Bar Slice
This Mars Bar slice recipe only needs a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 4 full-size Mars Bars (approximately 50g each), chopped
- 90g unsalted butter
- 3 cups puffed rice cereal (such as Rice Bubbles or Rice Krispies)
- 200g milk chocolate, chopped or in chip form
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or butter (optional, for chocolate topping)
The optional oil helps keep the chocolate topping smooth and shiny once it sets, but it’s not essential.
Step-by-Step Mars Bar Slice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line a square baking tin (20cm x 20cm is ideal) with baking paper, allowing some paper to hang over the sides. This makes it easier to lift the slice out once it’s set.
Step 2: Melt Mars Bars and Butter
In a medium saucepan, place the chopped Mars Bars and butter over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture has melted and become smooth. It’s normal for the nougat in the Mars Bars to take a little longer to dissolve. Be patient and keep stirring. You want a silky, well-blended mixture without burning the chocolate.
Step 3: Mix in the Cereal
Remove the saucepan from heat and gently fold in the puffed rice cereal. Stir until all the cereal is evenly coated in the melted Mars Bar mixture. Work quickly while the mixture is warm, as it will become firmer as it cools.
Step 4: Press Into the Tin
Transfer the mixture into the lined baking tin. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to press it down firmly and evenly. Compacting it well ensures the bars hold together once chilled.
Step 5: Melt and Spread the Chocolate
In a heatproof bowl, melt the milk chocolate (with a little oil or butter if using) using a microwave in short bursts or over a double boiler. Stir until smooth, then pour it over the base. Spread the chocolate evenly using a spatula or spoon.
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Place the tin in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours, or until the chocolate topping is fully set and firm. Once set, lift the slice out using the baking paper and cut it into squares or bars.
Tips for the Best Mars Bar Slice
- Use fresh puffed rice: Stale cereal will affect the texture and crunch of the slice.
- Chop the Mars Bars finely: This helps them melt more quickly and evenly in the butter.
- Don’t overheat the chocolate: Melt it gently to prevent seizing or graininess.
- Cut with a hot knife: Run a sharp knife under hot water, dry it off, and slice through the chocolate topping easily.
Variations and Add-Ins
While the original Mars Bar slice recipe is a classic, it’s also easy to customize. Try these fun variations:
- Add mini marshmallowsto the cereal mixture for an extra gooey texture.
- Sprinkle sea saltover the chocolate topping for a salted caramel twist.
- Mix in chopped nutslike almonds or hazelnuts for crunch.
- Use dark chocolateinstead of milk chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of vanillato the melted mixture for extra aroma.
These changes allow you to tailor the dessert to your taste while keeping the structure and spirit of the original recipe.
Storing Mars Bar Slice
Mars Bar slice stores well in the fridge and is perfect for making ahead. Once cut, place the squares in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the slice wrap pieces individually and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This slice is great served cold or at room temperature. It’s ideal for:
- Kids’ birthday parties
- Afternoon tea
- Potlucks and picnics
- Lunchbox treats
You can also serve it with a scoop of ice cream for an extra decadent dessert.
Why Mars Bar Slice Is a Timeless Favorite
The appeal of Mars Bar slice lies in its texture, taste, and ease. It’s one of those recipes that evokes childhood memories while still holding its own as a modern dessert. The rich caramel-chocolate flavor of the Mars Bars combined with the crispy rice and creamy topping makes every bite satisfying. Best of all, it requires no oven, no fancy equipment, and minimal cleanup.
Mars Bar slice is a classic no-bake dessert that deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection. Whether you’re making it for a special event or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, this treat hits all the right notes sweet, chewy, chocolatey, and delightfully nostalgic. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a slice that brings smiles to everyone who tries it. Try it once, and it may just become your go-to quick dessert recipe.