An Epicurean Adventure to: Australia
The Irresistible No-Bake Mars Bar Slice: A Taste of Down Under
Imagine combining one of the world’s most beloved chocolate bars with a universally popular breakfast cereal. The result? The legendary **Mars Bar Slice**, a no-bake wonder that has captivated taste buds across Australia and beyond. This delightful dessert brings together the classic **chocolate-nougat-caramel trio** of a Mars bar with the satisfying crunch of chocolatey Coco Pops, all enrobed in a smooth layer of milk chocolate. The outcome is an irresistibly **chewy, crunchy, and utterly satisfying treat** that evokes cherished childhood memories for many.
This Mars Bar tray-bake is not only incredibly delicious but also **remarkably easy to make**. Requiring just about 10 minutes of active preparation time, it’s the perfect recipe to **involve the kids** in the kitchen. With minimal cooking skills needed and the added bonus of being a **no-bake dessert**, you truly can’t go wrong. It’s an ideal addition to kids’ parties, school bake sales, or simply as a special treat to enjoy at home. Its simplicity and delightful texture make it a perennial favorite for any occasion where a sweet, satisfying bite is desired.
The Australian Origin of a Global Favorite
While the Mars Bar itself hails from Scotland, the brilliant culinary minds in Australia are credited with the ingenious creation known as the Mars Bar slice. Aussies have wholeheartedly adopted this much-loved chocolate bar and transformed it into a quintessential part of their dessert landscape.
The Mars Bar slice has become a true sensation Down Under, found gracing the display cases of countless bakeries, dessert shops, and, most frequently, in cherished homemade recipe collections passed down through generations. Its widespread popularity speaks volumes about its undeniable appeal and its status as a comforting, nostalgic treat. This easy-to-prepare confection quickly became a staple in Australian homes, offering a simple yet profoundly satisfying dessert option that requires no oven, making it perfect for the warm Australian climate or busy households.
For those eager to explore more effortless no-bake delights, consider trying this refreshing coconut ice recipe, the impressively simple Rice Krispie cake or these wonderfully rich date balls. These recipes, like the Mars Bar Slice, demonstrate how incredible desserts can be crafted without ever turning on the oven.
Australia in a Nutshell: Fascinating Facts
Beyond its culinary contributions, Australia is a land of incredible diversity and unique characteristics. Here are some quick insights into the vast continent:
| Location | Australia, a continent and country located entirely in the southern hemisphere, holds the distinction of being the world’s sixth-largest nation by total area. It is magnificently bordered by the vast Indian Ocean to its west and the sprawling Pacific Ocean to its east. Its maritime neighbors include Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and New Zealand, forming a dynamic region. |
| Language | English stands as the official language of Australia. However, a testament to its vibrant multicultural society, over 200 languages are spoken by its diverse population. This rich linguistic tapestry includes various Indigenous Australian languages, some of which are undergoing revitalization efforts, alongside numerous immigrant languages brought by generations of new arrivals, creating a truly global soundscape. |
| Population | The population of Australia is approximately 25 million people, spread across its massive landmass, with a significant concentration in coastal urban centers. Despite its size, it is one of the world’s least densely populated countries, offering vast expanses of wilderness. |
| Trivia | An astonishing one million wild camels roam Australia’s expansive deserts. These are not native but were introduced in the 19th century and have since thrived, becoming the largest population of purebred camels in the world. Interestingly, Australia even exports its camels to countries in the Middle East, where they are valued for their genetic purity and hardiness. |
Why You’ll Love This Easy Mars Bar Slice Recipe
This Mars Bar traybake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a testament to simple indulgence. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe collection:
- Effortlessly Simple & Quick: Say goodbye to complicated baking processes. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it perfect for spontaneous cravings or busy schedules. From start to finish, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this delightful treat comes together.
- Perfect for All Skill Levels & Kid-Friendly: No need for advanced culinary techniques or specialized equipment. This recipe is incredibly forgiving and straightforward, making it ideal for novice bakers. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to bond with children in the kitchen, allowing them to participate in a fun and rewarding activity.
- Minimal Ingredients & Equipment: You won’t need a pantry full of obscure items. This recipe calls for just five readily available ingredients and requires only a single pot for melting and mixing, along with one baking tin for setting. It’s perfect for when you want something special without a major grocery haul.
- No-Bake Brilliance: The biggest advantage of all! Keep your kitchen cool and your energy bills low. This no-bake method means no oven time, no precise temperatures to monitor, and a perfect dessert every time, regardless of your baking expertise. It’s especially wonderful for hot weather or when your oven is already occupied.
Essential Ingredients and Smart Substitutions
Crafting the perfect Mars Bar Slice starts with understanding your core ingredients. While the recipe is forgiving, knowing your options can enhance your culinary adventure.
*For the complete list of ingredients with precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card located at the bottom of this post.
Mars Bars
The star of our show! Mars bar sizes have seen various changes over the years, and in many regions, they are predominantly sold in multipacks. To ensure consistent results for this recipe, aim for approximately **200 grams worth of Mars bars**, irrespective of the individual bar sizes available at your local grocery store. This ensures the perfect chocolate-caramel-nougat ratio for that signature chewy texture.
While the recipe proudly bears the name “Mars bar slices,” you are absolutely welcome to use supermarket own-brand versions as a more budget-friendly alternative. Many stores offer excellent imitations that deliver a very similar flavor and texture profile. For instance, Aldi’s “Titan” bar, often sold in multi-packs, makes for a superb and cost-effective substitute without compromising on taste.
Butter
Butter forms the foundational richness of our slice. You have the flexibility to choose between **salted or unsalted butter**, depending on your personal preference for saltiness in your sweets. Salted butter can subtly enhance the chocolate flavors, providing a slight contrast, while unsalted butter offers a purer, sweeter profile. Either option will work beautifully, so feel free to experiment to find your ideal balance.
Coco Pops
The crunchy element! Just like Mars bars, many supermarkets offer their own, often cheaper, versions of chocolate-flavored puffed rice cereal. These work just as well as the name-brand Coco Pops. If you prefer a less intensely chocolatey flavor, or wish to vary the texture, **Rice Krispies** (or “Rice Bubbles” as they are charmingly known in Australia and New Zealand!) can be used as an excellent alternative. This substitution will yield a slightly lighter, crispier base, allowing the Mars bar flavor to shine through even more.
Milk Chocolate
The luscious top layer that brings everything together. The quality of the milk chocolate you choose will undoubtedly impact the overall taste and luxuriousness of your slice. Opting for a higher-quality milk chocolate will yield a richer, smoother finish. However, any standard milk chocolate will melt beautifully and provide a delicious coating.
For those who prefer a deeper, less sweet chocolate experience, **dark chocolate** can be used. Keep in mind that dark chocolate is often less popular with children, so if your audience is younger, milk or even **white chocolate** might be a more crowd-pleasing alternative. White chocolate offers a creamy sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the Mars bar base.
Oil
A small amount of oil is crucial for achieving a perfectly smooth and glossy chocolate topping. Adding vegetable oil or coconut oil to your melting chocolate helps to thin it slightly, ensuring an even spread and preventing it from seizing. This results in a professional-looking finish that sets beautifully without cracking. **Vegetable oil** is a neutral choice, while **coconut oil** can add a subtle tropical note if you enjoy that flavor profile.
Crafting Your Mars Bar Slice: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making this delightful treat is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a perfect no-bake Mars Bar Slice every time:
- Prepare Your Tin: Begin by greasing and thoroughly lining a square baking tin (approximately 20cm x 20cm or 8″ x 8″) with parchment paper. A clever trick is to cut a long strip of baking paper and position it so it hangs over two opposite sides of the dish. This creates convenient “handles” that will make lifting the set Mars Bar slice out of the tin much easier later, ensuring a clean removal without damage.
- Chop the Mars Bars: Unwrap the Mars bars and slice them into small, manageable chunks. This helps them melt more evenly and quickly when combined with butter.
- Melt the Base: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped Mars bars with the butter. Melt them together over a consistently low heat. The key here is patience; avoid high heat which can burn the chocolate. You want a gentle melt without any vigorous bubbling. Don’t worry if small nougat chunks don’t completely dissolve; they actually contribute to the appealing chewy texture of the finished slices. Stir frequently to ensure even melting and prevent sticking.
- Combine with Cereal: Once the Mars bar and butter mixture is mostly melted and smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the Coco Pops (or your chosen rice cereal) to the mixture. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold and combine the cereal with the chocolate mixture until every piece is coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal.
- Press into Tin: Spoon the entire Mars Bar and cereal mixture into your prepared baking tin. Distribute it evenly across the bottom, making sure to push it into the corners.
- Compact the Base: Using the back of a metal spoon, or even the flat bottom of a clean glass, firmly press the mixture down into the tin. Compacting it well is crucial for preventing the slices from crumbling apart later when cut, creating a solid and stable base.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: Break the milk chocolate into small pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl. Add the vegetable or coconut oil. Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each burst, until it’s completely smooth and melted. Be vigilant not to overheat or burn the chocolate, as this can make it seize and become grainy.
- Top and Chill: Once the chocolate topping is perfectly smooth, pour it evenly over the compacted Mars Bar base, ensuring the entire surface is covered. Use the back of a spoon to spread it out into an even layer. Place the tin in the fridge for a minimum of 2 hours to allow it to set completely.
- Rest Before Slicing: After taking the dish out of the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes before you begin slicing. This crucial step allows the chocolate topping to soften slightly, preventing it from cracking or breaking when you cut into the cold, firm slab. Allowing it to warm up ensures clean, smooth, and perfectly presented slices.
- Slice and Serve: Carefully lift the entire uncut block of Mars Bar slice from the tin using the parchment paper handles and transfer it onto a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the block into 16 uniform slices. For best results, refer to the “Top Tips” section for advice on achieving perfectly clean cuts.
Creative Variations to Explore
While the classic Mars Bar Slice is a masterpiece in itself, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste or adventurous spirit:
- Fruity or Extra Chocolatey Additions: Some traditional Mars Bar recipes incorporate raisins, which add a tangy sweetness. While we personally find it can sometimes be a bit too sweet with the Mars bar, you might discover it’s exactly to your liking! Similarly, for an extra burst of chocolate, fold in a handful of **chocolate chips** into the base mixture. For a playful texture, **mini marshmallows** can also be added, melting slightly into gooey pockets within the slice.
- Nutty Twists with Different Bars: If you’re a fan of nuts and caramel, consider swapping the classic Mars bars for **Snickers bars**. This variation introduces peanuts and an even richer caramel profile, creating a delectable, nutty version of the slice. Alternatively, you could use **Milky Ways**, but be aware that you will miss out on the distinct, gooey caramel layer that is characteristic of Mars bars, resulting in a lighter, nougat-focused treat.
- Cereal Swaps: Beyond Coco Pops and Rice Krispies, experiment with other cereals. Cornflakes can offer a different kind of crunch, or even crushed digestive biscuits can be used for a more biscuit-like base.
- Flavor Infusions: A drop of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt (especially if using unsalted butter) can elevate the flavors. A tiny amount of coffee extract can deepen the chocolate notes without adding a distinct coffee flavor.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Mars Bar Slice
Achieve bakery-quality results with these insider tips:
- Combat Dry Mixture: If, after adding the cereal to your melted chocolate mixture, you find it appears too dry or crumbly to press firmly into the tin, don’t despair! A quick fix is to incorporate a teaspoon or two of **golden syrup, maple syrup, or corn syrup**. These liquid sweeteners will add moisture and bind the mixture, making it much easier to compact and ensuring your base holds together beautifully.
- Achieve a Flawless Chocolate Top: For that coveted perfect, glossy, and snap-worthy chocolate surface on your slices, consider using **couverture chocolate** (such as Callebaut). The secret lies in **tempering it** properly. Tempering chocolate involves a specific heating and cooling process that stabilizes the cocoa butter crystals, resulting in a shiny, smooth, and firm finish that resists blooming (the white streaks that can appear on untempered chocolate). While it requires a bit more effort, the visual and textural payoff is significant. You can find detailed tempering guides online, including methods for microwaves (example here).
- Ensure a Solid Base: The structural integrity of your Mars Bar slices largely depends on how well you compact the cereal layer in the tin. It is absolutely vital to **press it down as firmly as possible** to create a dense, solid, and stable base. Take your time with this step, pressing every corner and edge. A well-compacted base will prevent your slices from crumbling apart when you cut them, ensuring each piece is perfectly formed and robust.
- Master the Art of Slicing: Achieving clean, crisp edges when cutting your squares can make all the difference in presentation. One effective technique is to use a large **serrated knife** and employ a gentle sawing motion back and forth. This method helps to cleanly cut through the chocolate topping and the chewy base without dragging or tearing. Another excellent option is to **dip a sharp knife into a jug of hot water**, wipe it completely dry, and then make your cuts. The warmth of the blade will allow it to glide through the chocolate and cereal with remarkable ease, resulting in near-perfect, smooth slices with minimal effort. Repeat this heating and wiping process for each cut for the best results.
Storing Your Delicious Mars Bar Slices
Proper storage ensures your Mars Bar Slices remain fresh and delightful for as long as possible:
- Room Temperature: If stored in an airtight container, Mars Bar Slices will keep well outside the fridge for up to 3 days. This is often preferred for a slightly softer, chewier texture.
- Refrigerated: For extended freshness and a firmer, snappier bite, store the slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Ensure they are well-sealed to prevent them from absorbing other odors.
Can You Freeze Mars Bar Slices?
Yes, absolutely! Mars Bar Slices freeze exceptionally well, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert or a way to preserve leftovers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply remove them from the freezer a few hours before you plan to serve them, allowing them to come to room temperature for optimal texture and flavor.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Mars Bar Slices with these delightful presentation ideas:
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of decadence, lightly drizzle additional melted milk, dark, or white chocolate over the top of your set slices just before serving.
- Chocolate Curls: Sprinkle a generous amount of chocolate curls over the top for an elegant and textured finish. This adds a sophisticated touch to a classic treat.
- Mini Mars Bar Garnish: Before the chocolate topping sets in the fridge, press small pieces of chopped Mars bar (or even mini Mars bar bites) onto the wet chocolate for an appealing visual and an extra burst of flavor.
- Custom Cuts: Get creative with how you slice them! Beyond traditional squares, try cutting them into elegant fingers, playful triangles, or even smaller bite-sized cubes for a party platter.
- With Ice Cream: Serve a warm (slightly microwaved) slice alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
- Coffee Companion: These slices are a perfect partner to a hot cup of coffee or tea, making for an ideal afternoon pick-me-up or after-dinner treat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mars Bar Slices
The Mars bar is an iconic and immensely popular chocolate bar, first introduced in the UK by Mars, Incorporated in 1932. At its core, it’s a delightful combination of soft nougat and luscious caramel, all generously enrobed in a layer of smooth milk chocolate. Interestingly, the bar is rumored to be named after the planet Mars, with an original design concept supposedly resembling the red planet – a fascinating piece of confectionery history!
Mars bars are sold and enjoyed across the globe, a testament to their enduring appeal. They are frequently used as a star ingredient in a wide array of dessert recipes, including cakes, brownies, cookies, cupcakes, and even decadent milkshakes. While they share similarities with the Milky Way bars found in the USA, the distinguishing feature of the UK Mars bar (and thus the Mars Bar Slice) is its wonderful, gooey layer of caramel.
Unfortunately, the classic Mars bars themselves, which are the primary ingredient in this recipe, are not considered gluten-free. Their ingredient list typically includes barley malt extract, which contains gluten. Therefore, this specific recipe for Mars Bar Slices would not be suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
There are a couple of common reasons why your Mars Bar slices might turn out excessively hard instead of chewy:
- Overheating the Chocolate: If the Mars bar and butter mixture was melted over too high a heat, or for too long, the sugar in the Mars bars can caramelize excessively and become very hard when cooled. Ensure you melt them slowly over low heat.
- Insufficient Butter: Not adding enough butter when melting the Mars bars can result in a drier mixture that sets harder. Butter adds crucial moisture and fat, contributing to the desirable chewy texture. Always adhere to the recommended butter quantity in the recipe.
A crumbly Mars Bar Slice usually indicates that the cereal layer was not adequately compacted. It is absolutely imperative that you press the cereal mixture down as tightly and firmly as possible into the baking tin. This compression binds the ingredients together, preventing them from breaking apart when sliced. Additionally, ensure that your Mars bar and butter mixture is properly melted and fully coats the cereal, with no dry spots (apart from the intentional nougat chunks). A cohesive, well-bound base is key to a slice that holds its shape.
Based on the ingredients and serving size specified in this particular recipe (16 slices), each Mars Bar Slice contains approximately **221 calories**. Please note that nutritional information can vary slightly based on specific brands of ingredients used and any substitutions made. Always refer to the nutritional disclaimer for more context.
Absolutely! Mars bars continue to be a beloved confectionery staple and are widely available across the UK. In fact, they are reportedly still produced in the very same factory where they first originated in 1932, maintaining a rich legacy and consistent quality for generations of chocolate lovers.
Explore More No-Bake Delights
If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of our Mars Bar Slice, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of no-bake recipes offers a fantastic variety of easy-to-make desserts that require no oven time, perfect for any skill level or occasion. Dive into these other popular options:
- Decadent No-Bake Milkybar Cheesecake
- Chocotorta – Argentinian Chocolate Birthday Cake
- Creamy 3-Ingredient Coffee Mousse (Eggless)
- Easy Coconut Ice Recipe
Full Recipe
Easy Mars Bar Slices
This simple recipe marries the winning chocolate-nougat-caramel trio of Mars bars with crunchy, chocolatey Coco Pops, resulting in an irresistibly chewy and satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe
Dessert, Snack
International
10 minutes
2 hours
2 hours
10 minutes
16
pieces
221
kcal
Maretha Corbett
Ingredients
- 4 full sized Mars bars (51g each) – approximately 200g total if bars vary in weight
- 80 grams butter
- 100 grams Coco Pops
- 300 grams milk chocolate
- 1 teaspoon vegetable or coconut oil
Instructions
Grease and line a 20x20cm (8″x8″) baking tin with baking paper. For easy removal, cut a long strip of baking paper and let it hang over two opposite sides of the dish to create ‘handles’.- Unwrap the Mars bars and slice them into small chunks. Place these chunks into a large saucepan along with the butter. Turn the heat to low.
- Stir the mixture with a spatula to assist the melting process. Maintain a gentle, low heat to avoid bubbles. Small nougat chunks that don’t fully melt will add to the slices’ texture.
- Once the Mars bar mixture is mostly melted, remove the saucepan from the stove. Tip in the Coco Pops and gently fold the cereal into the melted chocolate using a wooden spoon until well combined.
- Spoon the entire cereal mixture into the prepared baking tin, spreading it evenly and pushing it into all corners.
- Using the back of a spoon or the flat bottom of a glass, firmly compact the mixture into the tin. This is crucial for a stable base.
- Break the milk chocolate into small pieces and combine with the oil in a microwaveable bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth. Avoid overheating.
- Pour the smooth melted chocolate over the cereal base, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon. Place the tin in the fridge for 2 hours to set completely.
- Once removed from the fridge, allow the slice to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. This prevents the chocolate topping from cracking when cut.
- Lift the entire set block from the tin using the parchment paper handles and place it on a cutting board. Cut into 16 slices using a sharp knife.
**Nutritional Data Disclaimer**
Please be aware that the nutritional information provided below is calculated by a third party, and its absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. We strive to offer the most precise information possible but do not take responsibility for potential errors. Additionally, the nutritional value of this recipe may fluctuate depending on the specific brands and products used for ingredients. For personalized dietary advice, we highly recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.
Nutrition
Calories:
221
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
24
g
|
Protein:
2
g
|
Fat:
15
g
|
Saturated Fat:
9
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
5
g
|
Trans Fat:
0.2
g
|
Cholesterol:
11
mg
|
Sodium:
70
mg
|
Potassium:
100
mg
|
Fiber:
2
g
|
Sugar:
17
g
|
Vitamin A:
541
IU
|
Vitamin C:
4
mg
|
Calcium:
9
mg
|
Iron:
3
mg
For comprehensive food safety advice, including detailed guidance on food allergies, please visit the official Food Standards Agency website.