The Nigella Mars Bar Cake is a no-bake treat that combines gooey Mars bars, crunchy Rice Krispies, and a smooth layer of melted chocolate on top. This rich, indulgent cake is easy to make, with just a handful of ingredients, and is perfect for any occasion where you want to serve up something fun and irresistibly sweet. Whether for kids’ parties or simply as a treat to satisfy chocolate cravings, this Mars bar cake is sure to be a hit!
What is Nigella Mars Bar Cake?
Nigella Lawson’s Mars Bar Cake is a no-bake chocolate treat made by melting Mars bars and butter to create a gooey mixture that coats crispy Rice Krispies. Once set, it’s topped with melted chocolate, creating a decadent dessert bar with contrasting textures. This easy recipe is quick to assemble and doesn’t require an oven, making it an ideal choice for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Other Popular Recipes
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: No baking is required, and it is perfect for all levels of bakers.
- Rich Chocolate and Caramel Flavor: Mars bars provide a deliciously gooey caramel-chocolate taste.
- Fun Texture: The Rice Krispies add a light crunch to balance the rich chocolate.
- Perfect for Parties: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Simple Ingredients: Only a few pantry staples are needed.
Ingredients Needed to Make Nigella Mars Bar Cake
- 4 Mars Bars (about 50g each), chopped: Provides chocolate-caramel flavor and gooeyness.
- 75g Unsalted Butter: Adds creaminess and helps melt the Mars bars.
- 3 tbsp Golden Syrup: Adds sweetness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 100g Rice Krispies: Adds crunch and structure to the cake.
- 200g Milk Chocolate (or Dark Chocolate), melted: For a smooth chocolate layer on top.
Instructions to Make Nigella Mars Bar Cake
Step 1. Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2. Melt the Mars Bars and Butter
In a saucepan over low heat, add the chopped Mars bars, butter, and golden syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as the chocolate can scorch.
Step 3. Add the Rice Krispies
Remove the melted Mars bar mixture from the heat. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies, mixing until they are well coated with the chocolatey caramel mixture.
Step 4. Press into the Baking Dish
Pour the Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press the mixture down evenly, creating a firm layer. Place in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to set slightly.
Step 5. Melt and Pour the Chocolate Topping
While the base is setting, melt the milk or dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, or over a double boiler. Pour the melted chocolate over the Rice Krispies base, smoothing it out with a spatula to cover evenly.
Step 6. Chill and Serve
Place the baking dish back in the fridge for at least 1 hour or until fully set. Once firm, remove the cake from the dish using the parchment overhang, cut it into squares, and enjoy!
What Goes Well With Nigella Mars Bar Cake
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Adds a creamy contrast to the chocolate richness.
- Fresh Berries – Balances the sweetness with a hint of tartness.
- Whipped Cream – Light and airy, perfect with the dense cake.
- Espresso or Coffee – Complements the chocolate and caramel flavors.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle – Adds a sweet caramel touch.
- Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle over the chocolate layer for crunch and flavor.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Nigella Mars Bar Cake
To ensure your Mars bar cake is perfect, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Low Heat When Melting – Mars bars melt easily but can burn if overheated.
- Press the Base Firmly – This helps the Rice Krispies stick together, making the cake easier to cut.
- Chill Before Adding Chocolate Topping – Slightly setting the base helps the chocolate layer adhere better.
- Customize with Add-Ins – Mix in mini marshmallows or chopped nuts for extra texture.
- Cut with a Warm Knife – Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Easy Variations of Nigella Mars Bar Cake
Try these variations to put your own spin on the classic Mars bar cake:
- Add Mini Marshmallows – For a Rocky Road-style twist.
- Use Dark Chocolate Topping – Adds a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
- Top with Sea Salt Flakes – Adds a gourmet touch and balances the sweetness.
- Add Peanut Butter – Mix a tablespoon into the melted Mars bar mixture for a nutty flavor.
- Layer with White Chocolate – Drizzle melted white chocolate over the milk chocolate topping for a marbled effect.
Best Practices to Store Nigella Mars Bar Cake
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container – Keeps the cake fresh for up to 1 week.
- Freeze in Portions – Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Avoid Humidity – Store in a cool place to keep the chocolate from melting.
Best Practices to Reheat Nigella Mars Bar Cake
Since this is a no-bake cake, reheating isn’t necessary. However, you can slightly soften the chocolate topping if preferred:
- Room Temperature – Let the cake sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for a softer texture.
- Avoid Microwave – The chocolate topping may melt unevenly if microwaved.
How Can I Make Nigella Mars Bar Cake Healthier?
- Reduce Butter – Use a smaller amount of butter in the base for a lighter option.
- Swap Milk Chocolate for Dark Chocolate – Dark chocolate has less sugar and a richer taste.
- Add Nuts for Protein – Mix in chopped almonds or walnuts for added nutrients.
- Use Natural Sweeteners – Try maple syrup in place of golden syrup.
- Increase Rice Krispies – Adding extra Rice Krispies reduces the density of the chocolate mixture.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 30g
Final Words
The Nigella Mars Bar Cake is a delightful, no-bake treat that’s simple to make yet indulgent and full of flavor. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or as an easy treat, this cake brings together chocolate, caramel, and crispy textures for an unforgettable dessert. Give it a try and enjoy each chocolatey, caramel-filled bite!
More By British Baking Recipe
- Jamie Oliver Chocolate Cheesecake
- Jamie Oliver Gluten-Free Apple Crumble
- Mary Berry 7 Inch Christmas Cake
- Delia Smith All In One Chocolate Cake
Nigella Mars Bar Cake
- Prep Time: 15
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: British
Description
Nigella Lawson’s Mars Bar Cake is a no-bake chocolate treat made by melting Mars bars and butter to create a gooey mixture that coats crispy Rice Krispies. Once set, it’s topped with melted chocolate, creating a decadent dessert bar with contrasting textures. This easy recipe is quick to assemble and doesn’t require an oven, making it an ideal choice for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
- 4 Mars Bars (about 50g each), chopped: Provides chocolate-caramel flavor and gooeyness.
- 75g Unsalted Butter: Adds creaminess and helps melt the Mars bars.
- 3 tbsp Golden Syrup: Adds sweetness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 100g Rice Krispies: Adds crunch and structure to the cake.
- 200g Milk Chocolate (or Dark Chocolate), melted: For a smooth chocolate layer on top.
Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2. Melt the Mars Bars and Butter
In a saucepan over low heat, add the chopped Mars bars, butter, and golden syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as the chocolate can scorch.
Step 3. Add the Rice Krispies
Remove the melted Mars bar mixture from the heat. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies, mixing until they are well coated with the chocolatey caramel mixture.
Step 4. Press into the Baking Dish
Pour the Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press the mixture down evenly, creating a firm layer. Place in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to set slightly.
Step 5. Melt and Pour the Chocolate Topping
While the base is setting, melt the milk or dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, or over a double boiler. Pour the melted chocolate over the Rice Krispies base, smoothing it out with a spatula to cover evenly.
Step 6. Chill and Serve
Place the baking dish back in the fridge for at least 1 hour or until fully set. Once firm, remove the cake from the dish using the parchment overhang, cut it into squares, and enjoy!
