If you’re a fan of treats that combine gooey chocolate, crunchy cereal, and a touch of caramel magic, then you’re in for a real delight with this Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect fusion of nostalgia and indulgence, bringing together melted Mars Bars, golden syrup, and crispy Coco Pops, topped off with a smooth milk chocolate layer. This no-fuss dessert is simple to whip up, doesn’t require an oven, and will have everyone asking for seconds at any gathering. Trust me, this is one tray bake cake you’ll want in your repertoire for those moments when you crave something spectacularly sweet without the wait.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each component plays a crucial role in delivering that irresistible texture and flavor. From the luscious mars bars and smooth butter to the crunchy cereal and silky chocolate topping, every ingredient brings the perfect balance of richness and crunch.
- 4 Full-size Mars Bars (approximately 200g): The star ingredient providing caramel-chocolate goodness and gooey texture.
- 100g Butter: Adds creaminess and helps bind the base together.
- 2 Tablespoons Golden Syrup: Brings a delicate sweetness and helps with the ‘stickiness’ to hold everything in place.
- 130g Coco Pops (or Rice Krispies): Offers that satisfying crunch and lightness against the rich caramel base.
- 250g Milk Chocolate: Used for the topping, it creates a silky smooth finish that sets firmly.
How to Make Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Tin
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking tin with baking paper. This makes removing your tray bake a breeze and keeps all those delicious layers intact without sticking to the sides.
Step 2: Chop the Mars Bars
Cut the Mars Bars into small pieces. This helps them melt evenly and makes sure you get that wonderful caramel-chocolate mix evenly distributed throughout the tray bake.
Step 3: Melt the Base Ingredients
Place the chopped Mars Bars, butter, and golden syrup into a saucepan over low heat. Stir gently and patiently until you have a smooth, fully melted mixture. Don’t rush this step as gentle heat ensures no burning and keeps the flavors luscious.
Step 4: Combine with Coco Pops
Pour your melted mixture into a large bowl. Add the Coco Pops and mix thoroughly so every crunchy bit is coated in that sticky, sweet mix, which is the magic behind the perfect texture of this Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe.
Step 5: Press into the Tin
Transfer the cereal mixture into your lined tin and press it down firmly. The goal is to compact it so the tray bake holds together nicely once set, giving you those neat, sliceable bars.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate Topping
Melt the milk chocolate separately, either in a microwave in short bursts or over a bain-marie. Spread it evenly over the pressed cereal base, smoothing it out to create a glossy, irresistible layer.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Pop the tray bake into the refrigerator for around 2 hours. This chilling step allows the chocolate topping to harden perfectly and the base to set firm, making slicing and serving easier.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once firm, lift out the tray bake using the baking paper and slice into squares. For cleaner cuts, warm your knife slightly by dipping it in hot water and wiping it dry before slicing. This keeps the chocolate topping from cracking or breaking unevenly.
How to Serve Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little crushed toffee or chopped nuts over the chocolate topping right after spreading it for an added crunch and extra visual appeal. Alternatively, a light dusting of cocoa powder or edible gold dust can jazz up your tray bake for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Serve slices alongside lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness and add creaminess. Fresh berries can also add a refreshing tang and a pop of color that complements this rich tray bake wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider cutting the tray bake into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a pretty platter, garnished with mint leaves for a fresh touch. Wrapping individual slices in colorful parchment can make them perfect little treats for gifting or lunchboxes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, and the chill actually helps keep the chocolate topping firm and the base crisp.
Freezing
This tray bake freezes surprisingly well. Wrap individual slices or the whole block tightly in cling film and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
This dessert is ideally enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you prefer it softer, leave it at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to let the chocolate soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of Coco Pops?
Absolutely! Rice Krispies or any other puffed rice cereal works wonderfully in this recipe. Just be mindful that the flavor and crunch might slightly change depending on what you choose.
What if I don’t have golden syrup? Can I substitute it?
If you don’t have golden syrup, you can substitute with honey or light corn syrup. Just note that this may alter the flavor a bit, but the texture will remain lovely and sticky.
Is this recipe suitable for kids to help make?
Definitely! This Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe is great for involving children since there’s no oven involved and plenty of stirring, mixing, and pressing steps they’ll enjoy.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for the topping?
Yes, swapping in dark chocolate adds a richer, slightly more bitter contrast to the sweetness of the Mars Bars, which some people prefer. Feel free to experiment based on your taste.
How long does the Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe take to set?
Chilling for about 2 hours is usually sufficient for the chocolate topping to firm up and the base to set properly. If your fridge is particularly cold, it might take a bit less time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a quick yet decadent treat that brings together childhood favorites with minimal fuss, this Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe is your new best friend. Its gooey, crunchy, chocolatey layers come together effortlessly and create a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Give it a try, share it with friends, and prepare for the compliments to roll in—you’ll find yourself making this one again and again!
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Mars Bar No-Bake Tray Bake Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Description
This no-bake Mars Bar Tray Bake Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert featuring melted Mars Bars, butter, golden syrup, Coco Pops, and a smooth milk chocolate topping. Perfect for a quick treat that sets in the fridge, it offers a crunchy, chocolatey experience without the need for an oven.
Ingredients
Base Mixture
- 4 Full-size Mars Bars (total weight approximately 200g), chopped
- 100g Butter
- 2 Tablespoons Golden syrup
- 130g Coco Pops (or Rice Krispies)
Topping
- 250g Milk chocolate
Instructions
- Prepare the Tin: Line an 8×8-inch tin with baking paper to ensure easy removal of the bake once set.
- Chop Mars Bars: Chop the Mars Bars into small pieces to help them melt quickly and evenly.
- Melt Ingredients: Place the chopped Mars Bars, butter, and golden syrup into a saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until everything has melted smoothly together.
- Combine with Coco Pops: Pour the melted mixture into a large bowl and add the Coco Pops. Mix well until all the cereal is thoroughly coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Press Mixture into Tin: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared tin and press it firmly to create an even layer as the base.
- Melt Milk Chocolate: Melt the milk chocolate separately, either in a microwave or using a double boiler, until smooth and glossy.
- Top the Base: Spread the melted milk chocolate evenly over the pressed cereal base to create a smooth chocolate topping.
- Refrigerate: Place the tray bake in the refrigerator for around 2 hours to allow the topping to set firmly.
- Slice and Serve: Remove from the tin using the baking paper edges and cut into slices. Using a warm knife helps prevent the chocolate from cracking.
Notes
- For easy slicing, warm your knife under hot water and dry it before cutting to avoid cracking the chocolate topping.
- You can substitute Coco Pops with Rice Krispies for a similar texture and taste.
- Ensure a low heat when melting to prevent burning the chocolate and Mars Bars mixture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the bake fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: British
