This Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake is a no-bake treat that’s rich, chewy, and incredibly easy to make. Combining melted Mars bars with crispy rice cereal and topped with a layer of chocolate, this cake is a favorite for all ages. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet treat, this recipe is quick, simple, and always a crowd-pleaser.
What is Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake?
Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is a no-bake dessert that combines melted Mars bars with butter, rice cereal, and a layer of melted chocolate. The result is a chewy, crispy, and chocolatey treat that doesn’t require an oven, making it ideal for when you want a quick dessert without too much hassle.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- No-bake: Perfect for those hot days or when you want an easy dessert.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for sharing: Great for parties, gatherings, and family treats.
- Loved by kids and adults alike: The combination of chocolate and crispy rice is always a hit.
- Customizable: Easy to add toppings like sprinkles, nuts, or marshmallows.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake
- 4 Mars bars (about 180g total), chopped: The star ingredient, provides caramel, nougat, and chocolate.
- 100g unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps melt the Mars bars.
- 3 tbsp golden syrup: Adds a chewy texture and sweetness.
- 150g crispy rice cereal: Creates the crunchy base of the cake.
- 200g milk chocolate: Melted and spread on top for a smooth chocolatey finish.
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake
Step 1: Prepare the baking tin
Line a 9×9-inch square baking tin with baking paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Melt the Mars bars, butter, and syrup
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped Mars bars, unsalted butter, and golden syrup. Stir constantly until the mixture is melted, smooth, and well combined. Be patient to avoid burning, as the Mars bars take a little time to fully melt.
Step 3: Mix in the rice cereal
Once the Mars bar mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat. In a large mixing bowl, add the crispy rice cereal and pour over the melted mixture. Stir well to coat the cereal evenly.
Step 4: Press into the baking tin
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking tin and use a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly across the bottom. Ensure it’s compact to help the cake hold together when sliced.
Step 5: Melt the chocolate for topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate in 20-30-second increments, stirring between each until smooth. Alternatively, melt it over a double boiler on the stovetop.
Step 6: Spread the chocolate layer
Pour the melted chocolate over the rice mixture in the baking tin and spread it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. This will create a smooth chocolate topping.
Step 7: Chill and set
Place the baking tin in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully set and the mixture is firm.
Step 8: Slice and serve
Once set, remove the cake from the tin using the baking paper overhang. Cut into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy this sweet, chewy, and crispy treat!
What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake
- Vanilla ice cream: Adds a creamy contrast to the chocolatey, crispy texture.
- Fresh berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing touch.
- Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream balances the sweetness.
- Coffee or hot chocolate: Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake
- Melt slowly: Use low heat to melt the Mars bars, butter, and syrup to prevent burning.
- Press firmly: Press the rice cereal mixture firmly into the tin to ensure it holds together.
- Cut while chilled: For clean slices, cut the cake once it’s fully set in the fridge.
- Use milk or dark chocolate: Choose your preferred chocolate for the topping based on your taste.
- Add extras: Sprinkle chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or sprinkles on top of the chocolate layer for added flavor and texture.
Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake
- Peanut butter Mars bar cake: Add 2 tbsp of peanut butter to the melted mixture for a nutty twist.
- Salted caramel: Sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate layer for a sweet and salty flavor.
- White chocolate topping: Swap milk chocolate with white chocolate for a different look and flavor.
- Add marshmallows: Mix mini marshmallows into the rice cereal mixture for extra chewiness.
- Mint chocolate: Add a few drops of mint extract to the melted chocolate topping for a refreshing twist.
Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freeze: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake Healthier?
- Use dark chocolate: Substitute milk chocolate with dark chocolate for less sugar.
- Reduce golden syrup: Use a bit less golden syrup to cut down on sugar.
- Whole grain cereal: Use a whole-grain crispy rice cereal for added fiber.
- Add nuts: Fold in chopped nuts for extra protein and healthy fats.
- Limit portion sizes: Cut the cake into smaller squares to enjoy as a sweet treat without overindulging.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 28g
FAQs
Can I make Mars Bar cake without golden syrup?
Yes, if you don’t have golden syrup, you can substitute it with honey, corn syrup, or maple syrup. Each alternative will slightly change the flavor but still provides the necessary sweetness and chewy texture.
How long does Mars Bar cake last?
Mars Bar cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I use different chocolate for the topping?
Yes, you can use dark, white, or even a mix of chocolates for the topping, depending on your preference. Dark chocolate adds a richer flavor, while white chocolate creates a sweeter, creamier finish.
How do I prevent Mars Bar cake from sticking to the pan?
Lining the pan with baking paper is the best way to prevent sticking. Leave an overhang on the sides for easy removal after the cake has chilled and set.
Final Words
This Jamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake is a quick, no-bake dessert that’s rich, sweet, and wonderfully crispy. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a special treat, it’s simple to make and loved by all ages. With a few pantry ingredients, you can create this delicious chocolatey treat in no time. Enjoy!
PrintJamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake
- Prep Time: 15
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares/bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is a no-bake dessert that combines melted Mars bars with butter, rice cereal, and a layer of melted chocolate. The result is a chewy, crispy, and chocolatey treat that doesn’t require an oven, making it ideal for when you want a quick dessert without too much hassle.
Ingredients
- 4 Mars bars (about 180g total), chopped: The star ingredient, provides caramel, nougat, and chocolate.
- 100g unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps melt the Mars bars.
- 3 tbsp golden syrup: Adds a chewy texture and sweetness.
- 150g crispy rice cereal: Creates the crunchy base of the cake.
- 200g milk chocolate: Melted and spread on top for a smooth chocolatey finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the baking tin
Line a 9×9-inch square baking tin with baking paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Melt the Mars bars, butter, and syrup
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped Mars bars, unsalted butter, and golden syrup. Stir constantly until the mixture is melted, smooth, and well combined. Be patient to avoid burning, as the Mars bars take a little time to fully melt.
Step 3: Mix in the rice cereal
Once the Mars bar mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat. In a large mixing bowl, add the crispy rice cereal and pour over the melted mixture. Stir well to coat the cereal evenly.
Step 4: Press into the baking tin
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking tin and use a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly across the bottom. Ensure it’s compact to help the cake hold together when sliced.
Step 5: Melt the chocolate for topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate in 20-30 second increments, stirring between each until smooth. Alternatively, melt it over a double boiler on the stovetop.
Step 6: Spread the chocolate layer
Pour the melted chocolate over the rice mixture in the baking tin and spread it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. This will create a smooth chocolate topping.
Step 7: Chill and set
Place the baking tin in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully set and the mixture is firm.
Step 8: Slice and serve
Once set, remove the cake from the tin using the baking paper overhang. Cut into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy this sweet, chewy, and crispy treat!