Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight

Name: Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon baking powder; 0.33 cup shredded coconut; 0.33 cup chopped peanuts; 0.5 cup (1 stick / 8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 0.75 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1.25 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided; 10 oz jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved

Author: Lora

Published: November 22, 2025

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Introduction to Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight

As a passionate home cook, few things bring me more joy than whipping up a delightful treat after a long day. That’s where these Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight come in! They’re not just a dessert; they’re a kiss of sweetness that brings smiles to faces, from little ones to grown-ups. Perfect for busy moms like us, this recipe combines rich chocolate and tangy cherries without consuming our precious time. Whether it’s a snack for your kids or a sweet surprise for guests, these bars are sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight

There’s something truly magical about Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight. First off, they’re incredibly easy to make—a perfect solution for busy days when time is short. The rich chocolate mingles beautifully with the sunny burst of cherries, creating an unforgettable flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, these bars can be made ahead of time, making dessert planning a breeze!

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating these luscious Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight. Here’s what you’ll need:

Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness that balances the rich chocolate.
All-purpose Flour: A base ingredient for structure, ensuring your bars hold together nicely.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This is what brings that deep chocolate flavor. You can use dark cocoa for an extra kick.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Baking Powder: Helps the bars rise and become delightfully fluffy.
Shredded Coconut: Adds a wonderful chewiness that pairs nicely with chocolate and cherries.
Chopped Peanuts: For a little crunch and nutty flavor. You can substitute with walnuts or omit if you prefer.
Unsalted Butter: This gives richness. Melt it for a smoother batter.
Vanilla Extract: A must-have for any dessert; it elevates the flavors beautifully.
Large Eggs: These bind everything together and help in achieving a nice texture.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This creates a luscious, creamy layer on top, making your bars extra indulgent.
Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips: The stars of the show! Chocolate chips add additional richness and sweetness.
Maraschino Cherries: Their juicy tartness evened out by the sweet chocolate is divine.

For exact measurements of all ingredients, be sure to check the end of the article where they’re conveniently listed for printing!

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight

Preheat and Prepare

Start your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial, as it ensures even cooking throughout your Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight. It’s kind of like getting ready for a family gathering—you want everything to be just right! While the oven warms up, grease a deep 9×9-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper. This will help the bars come out easily, making serving a breeze when they’re ready.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Picture this as your “dry lake bed,” waiting for the ingredients to mix and bring it to life! Make sure everything is evenly blended. This mix is where rich chocolate flavor will come from, so take your time to ensure no clumps linger. Once you’re satisfied, set it aside, and let’s get to the wet ingredients!

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine melted butter, 0.25 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. You’ll want to stir these together smoothly since the butter is the magic glue that holds everything together. Imagine the chocolate chips melting into the mixture, creating a symphony of flavor! Mix well until the chocolate has melted completely and the mix feels silky and inviting. This is where the decadence begins!

Combine Everything

Now it’s time for the magic moment! Add half of your dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing thoroughly. Then, slowly add the remaining dry ingredients, stirring until everything is well combined. This batter is where the rich taste of your Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight is formed. Don’t rush it—ensure a cohesive mixture. The colors will blend beautifully, and the batter will take on a thick, fudgy consistency that’s oh-so-tempting!

Layer the Bars

Take the luscious batter and press it evenly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it fills the corners and is level on top. Then, sprinkle the halved maraschino cherries and the remaining chocolate chips across the surface. Think of it as decorating a canvas! Finally, pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cherries and chocolate chips, ensuring a creamy layer covers everything. It’s like a warm hug that pulls this dessert together!

Bake and Cool

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are gently golden and the center has set without a jiggle. Once baked to perfection, let your bars cool completely—ideally overnight. I know, it’s a challenge to wait, but trust me; letting them cool allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

Tips for Success

Remember to drain the maraschino cherries well! This prevents excess moisture that could make your bars soggy.
Let your butter cool slightly before mixing it with chocolate chips to avoid seizing.
Press the batter firmly into the pan for even baking.
For an added crunch, lightly toast your chopped peanuts before adding them.
Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for cleaner edges. Enjoy every indulgent bite!

Equipment Needed

9×9-inch baking dish: A glass or metal pan works well.
Parchment paper: Non-stick spray is an alternative, but parchment provides easy removal.
Mixing bowls: Any size will do, but one large and one medium is ideal.
Whisk and spatula: Both are useful for mixing ingredients and spreading batter.
Oven mitts: Essential for safety when handling hot dishes!

Variations on Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a blend of gluten-free flour for a delightful treat that accommodates those with gluten sensitivities.
Nut-Free: Leave out the chopped peanuts and shredded coconut, or swap them with sunflower seeds for a safe alternative for nut allergies.
Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet to create a rich, intense flavor that chocolate aficionados will adore.
Dried Cherries: For a chewier texture, try using dried cherries instead of maraschino cherries for a different taste experience.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter to make this a plant-based delight.

Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of hot and cold.
Serve alongside fresh berries to add a burst of color and freshness to your dessert plate.
A drizzle of chocolate sauce brings an extra touch of indulgence.
Enjoy with a cup of rich coffee or a sweet dessert wine for a sophisticated treat.
For a lovely presentation, dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream before serving.

FAQs about Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight

As you get ready to bake, you might have some lingering questions about Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight. Here are a few I hear often, along with helpful answers!

Can I substitute the maraschino cherries with fresh cherries?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can add a delicious, tart flavor to the bars. Just make sure to pit and chop them up, so they integrate well into the batter.

How do I store these bars once they cool?

For best results, store your Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but trust me, they probably won’t last that long!

Is it okay to freeze these bars?

Definitely! You can freeze the bars in an airtight container. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

If you’re out of sweetened condensed milk, you can make a quick substitute! Combine 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of sugar, heat gently until dissolved, and you’ll have a good alternative!

Can I make these bars in advance for a gathering?

Yes! In fact, preparing your Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure you store them properly!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Chocolate Cherry Bars Delight isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s a joyful experience from start to finish. The rich aroma of chocolate fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere that beckons everyone to gather around. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that remind me of family gatherings and shared laughter. These bars hold a special kind of magic, transforming ordinary moments into sweet memories. So, whether you’re whipping them up for a weekday treat or a special occasion, I promise they’ll bring smiles and satisfaction to your home.