Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is an indulgent, no-bake treat that combines the creamy, caramel goodness of Mars bars with crispy rice cereal and a rich chocolate topping. Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, this easy recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, making it a fantastic choice for quick desserts or casual gatherings.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires no baking, so it’s perfect for anyone short on time or without an oven.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of simple ingredients, it’s easy to whip up in no time.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the combination of chocolate and caramel, making it a fun family treat.
- Customizable: You can add toppings like sprinkles or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or special occasions where you need a quick yet impressive dessert.
What is Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake?
Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is a no-bake dessert made with melted Mars bars, rice cereal, and a layer of chocolate topping, creating a deliciously chewy, crispy, and chocolatey treat.
Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake
- 4 Mars bars (approximately 50g each), chopped
- 100g unsalted butter
- 3 cups rice cereal
- 200g milk chocolate, chopped
- 100g dark chocolate, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the Mars Bars and Butter
In a large heatproof bowl, combine the chopped Mars bars and butter. Melt over a pan of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Add Rice Cereal
Remove the melted mixture from the heat and fold in the rice cereal until evenly coated. The cereal should be fully covered in the Mars bar mixture.
Step 4: Press the mixture into the Dish
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly with a spatula to create an even layer.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate for Topping
In a separate bowl, melt the milk and dark chocolate together using the same double boiler or microwave method until smooth.
Step 6: Pour Chocolate Over the Base
Pour the melted chocolate over the Mars bar and cereal base, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is set.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once firm, lift the Mars Bar Cake out of the dish using the parchment paper edges. Cut into squares and serve.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich cake.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries provide a fruity touch that complements the chocolate.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream adds an extra indulgent element.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle over for a crunchy texture.
- Coffee or Tea: Pairs well with the sweet and chocolatey flavors.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake
- Use Quality Chocolate: High-quality chocolate melts better and tastes smoother in the topping.
- Work Quickly: Once the cereal is coated, transfer it to the dish promptly to prevent it from hardening.
- Press Firmly for a Solid Base: Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the dish to create a dense, chewy texture.
- Chill Thoroughly: For clean cuts, chill the cake completely before slicing.
- Try Adding Extras: Consider mixing in a few mini marshmallows or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake
- Use White Chocolate: Swap milk chocolate with white chocolate for a milder, creamier flavor.
- Add Sprinkles or Coconut: Top with sprinkles or shredded coconut before the chocolate hardens.
- Add Peanut Butter: For a nutty twist, melt a spoonful of peanut butter with the chocolate topping.
- Double the Chocolate Layer: For extra indulgence, add a thicker layer of melted chocolate on top.
- Add Salted Caramel: Drizzle a bit of salted caramel sauce over the top for added richness.
How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps keep the chocolate layer firm and prevents the base from becoming too soft.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake Leftovers
- Enjoy Cold: This cake is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary.
- Room Temperature Option: Let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving if you prefer a softer texture.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
Can I make Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake without rice cereal?
Yes, you can substitute rice cereal with cornflakes or crushed digestive biscuits for a different texture. The taste remains delicious, with a slightly crunchier bite.
How long does Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake last in the fridge?
Mars Bar Cake lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container, maintaining its flavor and texture.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze Mars Bar Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
What’s the best way to cut Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake?
For clean slices, use a sharp knife and run it under hot water before each cut. Wipe the blade between cuts for neat, even squares.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is a quick, no-bake dessert that’s both satisfying and simple to make. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s a treat that brings chocolatey goodness to any occasion. Perfect for those who love a mix of crunchy and chewy textures, this cake is a delightful crowd-pleaser sure to satisfy any sweet cravings.
PrintJamie Oliver Mars Bar Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (chilling time)
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 4 Mars bars (approximately 50g each), chopped
- 100g unsalted butter
- 3 cups rice cereal
- 200g milk chocolate, chopped
- 100g dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over the sides for easy removal.
In a large heatproof bowl, combine the chopped Mars bars and butter. Melt over a pan of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Remove the melted mixture from the heat and fold in the rice cereal until evenly coated. The cereal should be fully covered in the Mars bar mixture.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly with a spatula to create an even layer.
In a separate bowl, melt the milk and dark chocolate together using the same double boiler or microwave method until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the Mars bar and cereal base, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is set.
Once firm, lift the Mars Bar Cake out of the dish using the parchment paper edges. Cut into squares and serve.