There’s something about Christmas baking that makes the whole house feel warmer—even if the oven’s not on. I made these Mars Bar Holiday Squares last year for a “quick” dessert… and they vanished before I could sneak a second one. That buttery, chocolate-caramel crunch? Irresistible. Bonus: no baking, no stress, just pure holiday magic.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Mars Bar Holiday Squares
If you’re like me and want a festive dessert without babysitting an oven, these Mars Bar Holiday Squares are your new best friend. They come together in just 10 minutes, chill while you relax, and slice up into shiny little squares of holiday joy. Whether you’re decking out a Christmas dessert tray or sneaking bites from the fridge (been there), these no-bake bars bring all the cozy vibes—caramel, crispy, chocolatey goodness in every bite. Plus, they’re super customizable with sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or whatever’s in the pantry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for these dangerously addictive treats:
- Mars Bars (or Milky Way Bars) – Soft nougat and caramel bars melt down into a gooey, rich base.
- Salted Butter – Adds flavor and keeps things from getting overly sweet.
- Rice Krispies Cereal – The crunch factor! You can swap for Chex or Special K if that’s what you have.
- Milk Chocolate Chips – For the glossy topping that sets like a dream.
- Optional Sprinkles or Toppings – Add some flair! Think red & green sprinkles, crushed nuts, or candy canes.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Prepare the Base
Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit hanging over the edges for easy removal. Chop the Mars Bars into 1-inch chunks and melt them with ½ cup of salted butter over low heat. Stir gently until everything becomes a velvety, melted mess.
Add your Rice Krispies cereal and stir until the cereal is fully coated. Dump it all into your lined pan and press it down evenly using a spatula or clean hands.
Add the Chocolate Topping
Melt 1 cup of milk chocolate chips with ¼ cup of salted butter in the microwave, 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each zap until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over your base and spread it into an even layer with an offset spatula.
Decorate & Chill
This is where it gets fun—toss on sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or even a drizzle of white chocolate. Let it sit at room temperature for an hour so the topping can set gently, then move it to the fridge for another hour to fully firm up. Before slicing, let it come back to room temp for 15–20 minutes. Clean, sharp cuts = Insta-worthy bars.
Expert Tips for Perfect Squares
- Use quality chocolate – It makes the topping shinier and meltier.
- Don’t crank the heat – Mars Bars melt slowly; rushing can make them gritty.
- Chill fully – This is the secret to those perfect, bakery-style cuts.
- Switch it up – Crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even pretzel bits make fun add-ins.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
These store beautifully. Just keep them in an airtight container:
- Fridge: Stays fresh for 7–10 days.
- Freezer: Up to 3 months! Wrap in plastic wrap and place in a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge or on the counter before serving.
FAQs
Can I substitute Milky Way for Mars Bars?
Yes! In the U.S., Milky Way bars are essentially the same as Mars Bars. They work just as well in this recipe.
Can I use a different cereal?
Absolutely. Cornflakes, Chex, or even crushed pretzels will work, though the texture will shift a bit.
Can I make them ahead for the holidays?
Definitely. These squares freeze beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option for Christmas cookie trays or holiday potlucks.
Final Thoughts
These Mars Bar Holiday Squares are proof that holiday treats don’t need to be complicated to feel magical. No baking, no fancy tools—just buttery, chocolatey bliss you can whip up in minutes. Share them, pin them, or better yet, make a batch and see how fast they disappear. And if you’re in a festive mood, you might love this cozy creamy pumpkin pasta or these crunchy roasted pumpkin seeds for some savory balance. For dessert lovers, the pumpkin chiffon pie is another no-bake favorite.