Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake Recipe

If you’re a fan of indulgent, no-bake desserts that combine simplicity with heavenly flavor, Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is a must-try!

It’s quick, easy, and packed with the irresistible taste of chocolate, caramel, and crisped rice-guaranteeing that you won’t be able to stop at just one bite.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is a fun and effortless treat that requires no baking. This no-bake dessert is made from melting Mars bars with butter and golden syrup, then combining them with crisped rice and chocolate.

The result is a fudgy, crunchy, and chocolatey cake that’s both decadent and satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a special celebration. The simplicity of the ingredients and preparation process makes it a fantastic choice for beginner bakers or those in need of a quick and delicious dessert.

Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make this irresistible Mars Bar Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Mars Bars – The star of this dessert, the Mars Bars add sweetness, caramel, and chocolate flavors.
2. Butter – Adds richness and helps to bind the cake together.
3. Golden Syrup – A thick, amber-colored syrup that imparts a deep sweetness and sticky consistency.
4. Rice Krispies (or crispy rice cereal) – Provides the perfect crunchy texture to contrast the smooth and gooey layers.
5. Milk Chocolate – To top the cake with a glossy and smooth chocolate layer that makes the dessert even more decadent.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake:

• A saucepan – To melt the Mars Bars, butter, and golden syrup together.
• A spatula or wooden spoon – To stir the ingredients.
• A baking tin or dish – A square or rectangular dish works best for pressing the mixture into.
• Parchment paper – To line the dish for easy removal of the cake.
• A knife – For cutting the cake into squares once it’s set.
• A microwave-safe bowl (optional) – If you prefer melting the chocolate for the topping in the microwave instead of on the stovetop.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is surprisingly simple and doesn’t require baking. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare your tin: Line a baking dish or tin with parchment paper to make it easy to remove the cake later.
2. Melt the Mars Bars: Cut the Mars Bars into smaller pieces and place them in a saucepan with the butter and golden syrup. Gently melt over low heat while stirring continuously until you have a smooth, gooey mixture.
3. Add the rice: Once the Mars Bar mixture has melted and combined, remove it from the heat. Stir in the rice Krispies, mixing until all the rice is coated in the gooey mixture.
4. Transfer to the tin: Pour the sticky mixture into your prepared tin and press it down firmly using a spoon or your hands to ensure it’s compact and even.
5. Prepare the chocolate topping: In a separate bowl, melt the milk chocolate either in the microwave or over a double boiler. Pour the melted chocolate over the rice and Mars Bar base, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
6. Set the cake: Place the tin in the fridge and let the cake set for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate has hardened and the cake has cooled completely.
7. Cut and serve: Once set, cut the cake into squares and enjoy the chewy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness.

Expert Tips

1. Use fresh Mars Bars: The fresher the Mars Bars, the easier they will melt. If they’re too old, they might be harder to melt and could result in a thicker, less smooth mixture.
2. Customize your rice: If you want to give your Mars Bar Cake an extra twist, you can mix in other crunchy ingredients, like crushed nuts, or even some mini marshmallows for added texture.
3. Don’t overheat the chocolate: When melting the chocolate for the topping, do so slowly to avoid burning it. Stir frequently and remove from the heat as soon as it’s melted.
4. Press the mixture down firmly: Pressing down the rice and Mars Bar mixture helps to compact it, which prevents the cake from falling apart when you cut it.
5. Storage: Store any leftover Mars Bar Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, although it likely won’t last that long!

Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is a delightful, simple dessert that combines the rich flavors of caramel, chocolate, and crunch, creating an unforgettable treat. With minimal ingredients, no baking required, and an incredibly straightforward method, it’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Whether you’re making it for a party, a family dessert night, or just a sweet snack, this cake is sure to become a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, it’s so quick and easy, you’ll be making it again and again!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is a decadent, no-bake dessert that combines the rich flavors of Mars bars, chocolate, and rice krispies. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be tailored to suit different tastes. If you’re looking to switch things up or put a personal twist on the classic, here are some exciting variations:

1. Nutty Mars Bar Cake: Add a handful of chopped nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts to the mix. The nutty crunch adds a delightful contrast to the chewy Mars bars and crispy rice cereal. Toast the nuts lightly in a dry pan to bring out their flavor before folding them into the mixture.
2. Peanut Butter Mars Bar Cake: For those who love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, this version is a game-changer. Stir in a couple of tablespoons of creamy peanut butter into the melted chocolate before mixing with the Mars bars. This addition gives the cake an indulgent, peanutty twist, making it rich and comforting.
3. Marshmallow Mars Bar Cake: To introduce a little fluffiness to your dessert, you can add mini marshmallows to the mix. As the chocolate and Mars bars melt together, the marshmallows will become slightly gooey, adding a chewy texture that contrasts with the crispy rice cereal.
4. Dark Chocolate Mars Bar Cake: If you prefer the deeper, slightly bitter flavor of dark chocolate, substitute the milk chocolate with dark chocolate. The richness of dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of Mars bars, offering a more sophisticated version of the cake.
5. Caramel Mars Bar Cake: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of the cake once it’s set. You could even mix a spoonful of caramel into the melted chocolate for a more uniform flavor. This adds an extra layer of gooey sweetness that’s irresistible.
6. Dried Fruit Mars Bar Cake: Incorporate some dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots into the mix. The sweetness and tang of dried fruits enhance the flavors of the Mars bars while adding a chewiness that complements the crispy rice.
7. Spicy Mars Bar Cake: If you’re in the mood for something a little different, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or even a dash of chili powder to the melted chocolate. This will add warmth and a slight kick to the cake, creating an unexpected yet delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

While the Mars Bar Cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers properly to ensure it stays delicious for a few days. Here’s how to keep your cake in prime condition:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the Mars Bar Cake to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which could make the cake soggy.
2. Airtight Container: To preserve the freshness, store your leftover cake in an airtight container. This will help prevent the cake from absorbing any moisture from the air and losing its crunch.
3. Refrigeration: If you’re planning to store the cake for more than a couple of days, it’s best to keep it in the fridge. The chocolate and caramel will firm up in the cooler environment, making the cake even more satisfying when you’re ready to indulge. However, keep in mind that the cold can make the cake a bit firmer, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
4. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the Mars Bar Cake. Cut it into individual slices or bars, wrap each one in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, let the cake thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.
5. Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat: Always store the cake in a cool, dark place to avoid it melting or becoming too soft. Mars Bar Cake is very sensitive to temperature changes, so keeping it in a stable, cool spot ensures the best texture.

What Goes Well With Mars Bar Cake?

The rich, sweet nature of Mars Bar Cake makes it a versatile dessert that pairs well with various beverages and accompaniments. Here are some delightful options:

1. Coffee: The deep, bold flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the Mars Bar Cake beautifully. Whether you prefer an espresso, a cappuccino, or a simple black coffee, the bitterness of the coffee helps balance the sugary sweetness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve your Mars Bar Cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The smooth, cold texture of the ice cream contrasts with the rich, chewy cake, creating a delightful sensory experience.
3. Fresh Berries: To cut through the richness, serve your cake with some fresh berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making the dessert feel a bit lighter.
4. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can make the Mars Bar Cake feel even more indulgent. For added flavor, you could infuse the cream with vanilla or a touch of honey.
5. Tea: Pairing the Mars Bar Cake with a hot cup of tea is a classic option. Opt for a strong black tea like Earl Grey or Assam, or go for a herbal tea like mint or chamomile to help balance out the richness of the cake.
6. Milk: If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort combination, pair your Mars Bar Cake with a glass of cold milk. The milk helps to mellow the sweetness of the cake and provides a creamy texture that complements the crunchy rice cereal.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake is a fun, indulgent treat that can be customized in many ways to suit various tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer to add nuts, peanut butter, or a spicy twist, the cake is versatile and easy to prepare.

With the right storage techniques, you can enjoy leftovers for several days. Plus, pairing the cake with a delicious beverage or side like coffee, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries elevates the experience even further. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply enjoying it as a sweet snack, the Mars Bar Cake is sure to please your taste buds.

FAQs

What Are The Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake?

The main ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake include Mars Bars, butter, golden syrup, and rice krispies. You also need to melt the Mars Bars and butter together to create the base for the cake.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake?

It takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and melt the ingredients. Afterward, the cake needs to be refrigerated for about 1-2 hours to set properly.

Can I Use Other Types Of Chocolate Bars Instead Of Mars Bars?

While Mars Bars are key to the flavor, you could experiment with other chocolate bars, such as Snickers or Twix, but it will change the taste and texture of the cake.

How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake More Chocolatey?

To make the cake more chocolatey, you can melt extra chocolate (dark or milk) and pour it over the set Mars Bar mixture before refrigerating.

Do I Need To Bake Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake?

No, this recipe is no-bake. The cake is set in the fridge after combining all the ingredients.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Syrup Instead Of Golden Syrup?

Golden syrup gives a distinct flavor to the cake, but you can substitute it with light corn syrup if needed. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Is There A Way To Make Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake Vegan?

To make a vegan version, you could substitute the butter with dairy-free butter and ensure the Mars Bars are replaced with a vegan-friendly chocolate bar, though this may alter the texture and flavor.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake?

Store Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 4-5 days.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to a month. Wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

What Size Pan Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Mars Bar Cake?

You can use a standard 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan, or any similar-sized pan. Line the pan with parchment paper to make removing the cake easier once it sets.