Caramel Malteser Slice: The Ultimate No-Bake Dessert Delight
Introduction to the Caramel Malteser Slice
Few treats combine crunch, chewiness and pure chocolate-caramel indulgence like the Caramel Malteser Slice. This no-bake slice brings together a buttery biscuit base, a gooey caramel middle and crunchy chocolate malt balls for a dessert that hits every texture and taste note. Whether you’re after a party treat, afternoon tea star or homemade gift, this slice delivers.
What makes it so irresistible? The contrast of textures, the malty malt-balls, and the rich caramel all wrapped in chocolate. As one recipe blog puts it: “No bake, 20 minutes and 7 ingredients, this Caramel Malteser Slice takes Maltesers to a whole new level.” Sugar Salt Magic
And if you’re interested in how no-bake desserts can save time and fuss, check out this guide on no-bake slices.
In this article we’ll explore everything from ingredients and instructions to creative variations, tips for success and FAQs — so you can confidently create your very own Caramel Malteser Slice at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the essential components for a satisfying Caramel Malteser Slice:
Base layer
- Plain biscuits (digestives, graham crackers, plain malted biscuits)
- Unsalted butter
- A pinch of salt
Caramel & topping
- Chewy caramels or a can of Top N Fill caramel (or homemade)
- Thickened cream/heavy cream
- Milk chocolate (for the ganache or topping)
- A pack of malt-balls (for example, the classic Maltesers)
Recent adaptations of the slice confirm these core ingredients. For example, one recipe uses digestive biscuits and caramels melted with cream. Sugar Salt Magic+1
Also, if you’re exploring healthier or alternative options (like gluten-free or dairy-free), you can swap the butter for coconut oil or use gluten-free biscuits and dairy-free chocolate.
Why these ingredients work together:
- The biscuit base gives crunch and structure
- The caramel layer adds chew, richness and sweet depth
- The chocolate malt balls provide a malty crunch that pairs perfectly with smooth caramel
- The top chocolate layer seals in the gooey centre and adds a final decadent finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how you can assemble your Caramel Malteser Slice with confidence:
- Line and prepare your tin – Use an 8×8 inch or 18×28 cm square tin, lining it with baking paper for easy removal later.
- Make the biscuit base – Crush the biscuits into fine crumbs, then combine with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Press the mixture evenly into the lined tin. Chill in the fridge until firm. One tip: ensure the base is well pressed so it sets solidly and holds the caramel.
- Prepare the caramel layer – Melt your caramels and cream together until smooth. Pour the caramel over the chilled base and return to the fridge to set.
Some versions of the recipe use a dark-chocolate truffle-fudge layer before the caramel. New Idea - Add the malt balls – Once the caramel layer is firm but slightly tacky, press the malt balls (Maltesers) into the caramel evenly.
- Top with chocolate ganache or melted milk chocolate – Melt milk chocolate (sometimes with a little butter or oil) and drizzle or pour over the malt balls. Spread out evenly.
According to the recipe, “press Maltesers into the caramel layer, then drizzle the ganache all over.” Sugar Salt Magic - Chill to set – Let the slice chill in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours (or until fully set) before slicing into squares.
- Cut and serve – Use a warm sharp knife (dip in hot water and dry) for clean cuts. Serve chilled for best texture.
Quick Tips for Success
- Make sure the caramel isn’t over-heated or under-cooked — you want a smooth, thick layer that holds but still has a chew.
- Chill each layer properly before adding the next to prevent mixing or melting.
- Use a baking paper overhang to lift the finished slice easily from the tin.
- When cutting, wiping the knife between cuts helps maintain clean edges.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Base too soft: If the base isn’t chilled or pressed firmly, it may crumble.
- Runny caramel: Undercooked or too hot caramel can ooze out when cut.
- Chocolate cracking: If the top chocolate sets too hard before cutting, it may crack. Let it soften slightly at room temperature.
- Uneven distribution: Press the malt balls evenly for consistent slices.
How to Make the Perfect Caramel Malteser Slice Every Time
Achieving consistent results comes down to a few expert-level tricks:
- Use room-temperature butter and melt gently to avoid splitting the base mixture.
- Chill each layer thoroughly — the base, the caramel, the topping — before proceeding.
- For the chocolate top, add a teaspoon of neutral oil or butter if needed to help it set with a glossy finish and easy cutting.
- When pressing the malt balls into the caramel, gently press them so they embed slightly — this helps hold them in place when cutting.
- Storage tip: Keep the slice in an airtight container, stored in the fridge. Serve directly from the fridge — letting it sit at room temperature too long will soften the caramel too much and the base may lose crunch. According to one source: “Caramel Malteser Slice should be kept in the fridge and served from the fridge.” Sugar Salt Magic
- For portability or gifting, store in the freezer (well-wrapped) and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Creative Variations of the Caramel Malteser Slice
If you’re looking to personalise the dessert, here are some fun variations:
1. Nutty Caramel Malteser Slice
- Add chopped roasted hazelnuts or pecans to the biscuit base or sprinkle them over the caramel layer before the chocolate topping.
- The combination of nuts and malt balls adds an extra crunch and flavour dimension.
2. Salted Caramel Version
- Add sea salt (¼–½ tsp) to the caramel mix for a sweet-salt contrast. Many recipes of “salted caramel malt chocolate slice” follow this approach. Jessie Bakes Cakes
- Top with a light dusting of flaky sea salt after the chocolate sets.
3. Dark Chocolate or White Chocolate Twist
- Use dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) for the top layer to balance the sweetness of the caramel and malt balls.
- Or use white chocolate for a sweeter, visually striking variation.
4. Diet-Friendly or Dietary Swap Edition
- Use gluten-free biscuits for the base and dairy-free butter or coconut oil if catering for vegan or lactose-intolerant guests.
- Swap the malt balls for gluten-free chocolate malt-balls or crushed gluten-free biscuits.
- Replace some of the normal sugar caramel with a lightly sweetened alternative — just be cautious, as texture may vary.
5. Seasonal or Themed Versions
- For festive occasions: mix in chopped peppermint or candy-cane pieces on top.
- For kids’ parties: press in colourful chocolate candies alongside the malt balls for added fun.
Each variation retains the core structure — base, caramel, malt balls, topping — but allows you to tailor the slice for flavour, dietary needs or occasions.
Healthier Alternatives & Modifications
While the Caramel Malteser Slice is decadent, you can lighten it while keeping flavour:
- Replace half the butter in the base with coconut oil, which adds a subtle flavour and reduces dairy.
- Use a biscuit base made from whole-grain or oat biscuits for added fibre and a nuttier flavour.
- For the caramel layer: use reduced-sugar caramels or make your own using condensed milk and golden syrup but reduce the sugar slightly.
- For the chocolate top: select dark chocolate (70% cocoa) which has less added sugar and richer flavour; or use a dairy-free chocolate if needed.
- Serve smaller portion sizes — cutting into bite-sized squares reduces calorie load without sacrificing indulgence.
Dietary modifications:
- Gluten-free: use gluten-free biscuits and ensure malt-balls are certified gluten-free.
- Vegan/dairy-free: use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream or caramel substitute, and vegan chocolate. Expect texture differences and set-time may vary.
- Allergy-friendly: be aware of malt-balls (Maltesers) often contain gluten and milk — swap these to meet allergen needs.
Though lighter, these alternatives still let you enjoy the indulgent flavour of the slice while accommodating specific diets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make a Caramel Malteser Slice without butter?
Yes — you can use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine substitute. Note: the texture may be slightly softer and flavour slightly different.
Q2: Can I freeze the slice?
Yes — once fully set, wrap the slice tightly in cling film or foil and freeze. Thaw in the fridge before serving. Freezes well for up to 4–6 weeks.
Q3: How long does the slice last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5–7 days. Keep chilled; at room temperature the caramel may soften and ooze.
Q4: What can I use instead of Maltesers?
You can substitute with other chocolate-coated malt balls, or even small chocolate candies like mini Reeses or chopped chocolate bars. The key is a crunchy chocolate element.
Q5: Why is my caramel layer oozing or too soft?
If the caramel is under-cooked or not chilled adequately before topping, it will be too runny. Ensure you melt slowly and allow firm set in the fridge before cutting.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
- Cut into small squares or bars for serving. Because of the richness, a smaller serving works well (for example 2–3 cm squares).
- Serve chilled — the layers hold best from the fridge and each bite gives crisp base, chewy caramel and crunchy malt ball.
- Pair with a strong coffee, a lightly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness.
- For a celebratory occasion, present the slice on a decorative platter and garnish with extra malt balls, a dusting of cocoa or salt flakes.
- Use as part of a dessert board with other tray-bakes, brownies and slices for variety.
Caramel Malteser Slice as a Gift
This slice is perfect as a homemade gift: wrap individual squares in baking paper or place in a mason jar layered with parchment and ribbon. Label with a tag like “Treats for You” and store in the fridge until gifting. Because it’s no-bake (or minimal bake) and travel-friendly, it makes an ideal homemade present for friends, family or teachers. You can also package into cellophane bags tied with ribbon and include a little note: “Enjoy this Caramel Malteser Slice — crunch, malt and caramel all in one!”—easy and impressive.
Conclusion
In summary, the Caramel Malteser Slice is a decadent, yet surprisingly simple dessert that packs big flavour and texture with minimal fuss. With a crunchy base, gooey caramel layer, and crunch from malt balls topped in chocolate, it has broad appeal for gatherings, gifts or sweet treats. Follow the ingredients and steps above, include your own creative spin or dietary swap, and you’ll have a show-stopping treat ready in no time. Make it today, enjoy every bite — and watch it disappear fast!
