When I first attempted to make my own candy bars, I didn’t expect the kitchen transformation it would spark. The familiar crunch of almonds and the rich creaminess of almond butter came together in an unexpected harmony, creating a delightful treat that rivals any store-bought version. These Raw Mars Bars not only satisfy those sweet cravings, but they do so without any of the guilt associated with traditional candy.
Imagine digging into a bar covered in silky melted chocolate, interlaced with a touch of hemp seeds and a sprinkle of sea salt that makes each bite utterly divine. Perfectly suited for a sweet snack on movie night or a quick pick-me-up throughout the day, this treat is impressively simple to whip up and can even be made ahead of time for busy weeks.
Get ready to experience the joy of homemade indulgence with this easy recipe. You might just find yourself making a batch each week!
Why are Raw Mars Bars so irresistible?
Decadent flavors: The combination of almonds, cashews, and almond butter delivers a rich, nutty taste that keeps you coming back for more.
Guilt-free indulgence: Sweetened naturally with maple syrup, these bars let you indulge without the sugar crash of traditional candy.
Quick prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious bars ready in no time!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for sharing with family or friends; they are bound to impress anyone with a sweet tooth.
Versatile: Customize them by adding your favorite nuts or seeds; the possibilities are endless!
Enjoy the delightful crunch and creamy goodness by trying out this recipe today! For more delightful treats, check out our section on healthy dessert recipes.
Raw Mars Bars Ingredients
• Dive into these delightful Raw Mars Bars with wholesome yet scrumptious ingredients!
For the Base
- Almonds – a tasty source of healthy fats and protein, adding a delightful crunch.
- Cashews – creamy and smooth, they contribute to the base’s rich flavor and texture.
- Hemp seeds – packed with omega-3s, they add a nutritious twist to your bars.
- Maple syrup – a natural sweetener that enhances the overall flavor without the guilt.
- Filtered water – helps bind the ingredients together for optimal consistency.
- Cinnamon – adds warmth and depth to the sweet profile of the bars.
- Sea salt – just a pinch elevates the sweetness and balances the flavors.
For the Filling
- Almond butter – creamy and rich, it creates the smooth layer that complements the base.
- Melted coconut oil – this adds a silky finish and helps with the chocolate coating later.
- Maple syrup – repeating it in the filling ensures maximum sweetness for your filling.
- Filtered water – necessary for making the filling luscious and easy to spread.
For the Coating
- Chocolate bar – the star of the show; choose high-quality chocolate for the best experience.
- Melted coconut oil – enhances the chocolate’s texture for a perfect dip.
- Flaky sea salt – sprinkling on top brings a delightful contrast that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
How to Make Raw Mars Bars
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Pulse all base ingredients in a food processor until the mixture reaches a dough-like consistency. You want it to hold together when pressed, ensuring a solid base for your bars.
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Press the dough-like base into the bottom of a parchment paper-lined loaf tin. Freeze it for about 10 minutes while you prepare the filling. This ensures a perfect, sturdy layer.
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Combine all filling ingredients in the same food processor. Pulse until well mixed, and then pour it over the chilled base. Freeze for 1-2 hours until it’s nice and firm.
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Slice the firm mixture with a sharp knife on a cutting board into rectangles or any shape you desire. Feel free to get creative with your cuts!
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Melt the chocolate bar in a medium bowl with the coconut oil. Heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until completely liquefied and glossy.
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Dip each cut bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place the coated bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet and return them to the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to harden.
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Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt over the top of each bar after removing them from the freezer. This enhances the flavors beautifully and gives a gourmet touch.
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Store your delicious creations in an airtight container in the freezer, where they will stay fresh for up to 6 months.
Optional: Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Raw Mars Bars?
Indulging in these sweet, homemade treats opens up a world of delightful pairings that enhance your experience.
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Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea complements the rich flavors while adding a refreshing note.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a bright, tart contrast to the sweet and creamy bars, enhancing every bite.
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Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of homemade or store-bought granola adds a crunchy texture that elevates your taste adventure. Enjoy a few bars along with a small bowl of granola for a filling snack!
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Dark Chocolate: Pair your Raw Mars Bars with extra dark chocolate for a luxurious experience that balances sweetness with bitterness.
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Coconut Yogurt: A dollop of creamy coconut yogurt alongside gives a luscious, tropical flair that makes for a well-rounded treat.
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Almond Milkshake: A cold, rich almond milkshake featuring a hint of vanilla echoes the nutty tones of the bars, making it a perfect pairing for dessert or a midday snack.
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Chopped Nuts: Toasted almonds or cashews, served on the side, add an extra layer of crunch that perfectly complements the silky texture of the bars.
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Fruit Salad: A zesty fruit salad with citrus notes lightens the heaviness and refreshes the palate, balancing the dessert beautifully.
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Coffee: A cup of dark roast coffee with a touch of cream harmonizes seamlessly with the sweetness, making for a comforting afternoon delight.
Make Ahead Options
These Raw Mars Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base and filling up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, freeze the assembled bars for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply dip the pre-cut bars in melted chocolate and let them harden before serving. This not only saves you time but allows you to have a delicious treat on hand whenever cravings strike! By prepping ahead, you ensure that these bars remain just as delicious and satisfying as when first made, allowing you to indulge without the hassle during busy weeks.
Raw Mars Bars Variations
Customize your Raw Mars Bars and let your imagination run wild with these tempting tweaks!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute oats for the nuts in the base; they provide a chewy texture and are naturally gluten-free.
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Nut-Free: Swap almonds and cashews for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a safe, nut-free treat.
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Vegan: Ensure your chocolate bar is dairy-free and you’re all set for a delicious vegan delight that everyone can enjoy!
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Add Spice: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili for a surprising kick that contrasts the sweetness beautifully.
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Texture Twist: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical flavor and a chewy texture that’s utterly delightful.
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Dried Fruits: Toss in some chopped dates or cranberries for an added burst of sweetness and a chewy bite; it will elevate the flavor profile.
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Protein Boost: Incorporate a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the base for a filling, energizing treat that’s perfect for post-workout recovery.
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Flavor Infusion: Use flavored almond butter, such as vanilla or chocolate, to enhance the taste and make each bite even more indulgent.
These variations ensure you can enjoy personalized treats based on your cravings and dietary needs!
Expert Tips for Raw Mars Bars
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Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, high-quality nuts and chocolate to boost flavor. Old ingredients can dull the taste of your Raw Mars Bars.
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Pulsing Technique: Don’t over-process the base; aim for a dough-like consistency without turning it into nut butter. This ensures a perfect texture!
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Chilling Time: Make sure to freeze your base long enough for a solid foundation. Rushing this step can result in bars that crumble when cut.
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Chocolate Melting: Melt the chocolate slowly in intervals to prevent burning. Stir between heats for a silky smooth finish that perfectly coats your bars.
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Creative Flavoring: Personalize your bars! Experiment with spices like nutmeg or add dried fruits to the filling for an extra flavor kick while keeping it healthy.
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Storage Tips: Store your Raw Mars Bars in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain freshness. They stay delicious for up to 6 months!
How to Store and Freeze Raw Mars Bars
Room Temperature: These bars are best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, they can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving.
Fridge: Store Raw Mars Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. They’ll remain chewy and delicious during this time!
Freezer: For long-term storage, keep Raw Mars Bars in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 6 months. Just let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: No reheating is required, but if you prefer them slightly warm, allow them to sit out for a few minutes after taking them out of the freezer.
Raw Mars Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right almonds and cashews for the Raw Mars Bars?
Absolutely! Choose almonds and cashews that are fresh, with no dark spots or rancid smells. If you can, buy raw and unsalted nuts to better control the flavors in your recipe. Organic nuts can be a great choice, as they typically have enhanced flavor and texture.
How should I store my Raw Mars Bars, and how long will they last?
You can store your Raw Mars Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, place them in the freezer; they can stay fresh for up to 6 months! Just remember to let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before indulging.
Can I freeze Raw Mars Bars, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Freezing is fantastic for these bars. To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps them fresh. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months!
What should I do if my Raw Mars Bars are too crumbly?
If your bars crumble a bit, it may be due to insufficient moisture or mixing. You can add a little more maple syrup or filtered water to the base mixture, then pulse a bit more until it’s the right consistency. Make sure the base is tightly packed in the loaf tin, so it holds together when sliced.
Are Raw Mars Bars suitable for those with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these Raw Mars Bars contain almonds and cashews, which might pose a problem for those with nut allergies. However, you can experiment by replacing the nuts with seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, if you’re looking for a nut-free version. Just adjust the quantities of the syrup and water to maintain the right texture!
Can I substitute the maple syrup in the Raw Mars Bars?
Very! If you prefer a different sweetener, you can swap the maple syrup for agave nectar or honey. However, keep in mind that honey is not vegan. Balance the sweetness according to your taste, keeping the overall liquid ratio in mind to ensure good consistency.
Decadent Raw Mars Bars That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pulse all base ingredients in a food processor until the mixture reaches a dough-like consistency.
- Press the dough-like base into the bottom of a parchment paper-lined loaf tin and freeze for about 10 minutes.
- Combine all filling ingredients in the same food processor and pulse until well mixed.
- Pour the filling over the chilled base and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm.
- Slice the firm mixture into rectangles or desired shapes.
- Melt the chocolate bar in a bowl with the coconut oil, stirring until liquefied and glossy.
- Dip each bar into the melted chocolate and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt over each bar after removing them from the freezer.
- Store your creations in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 6 months.