Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

These Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, making them a delightful treat for any occasion! With a soft blondie base loaded with juicy cherries and rich chocolate chips, these bars are sure to please everyone. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special moment, or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is a must-try. The simplicity and deliciousness of these bars will make them a regular in your dessert rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of cherries and chocolate creates a unique taste that stands out.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or a sweet snack at home.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of chocolate or use other fruits as desired.
• Perfect Texture: These bars achieve a chewy and soft texture that everyone loves.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-by-8-inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking spray
• Medium microwave-safe bowl
• Spatula or offset knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 8-by-8-inch baking pan: This size is ideal for even cooking and achieving the right thickness for your bars.
• Spatula or offset knife: Essential for smoothing out the batter evenly in the pan for consistent baking results.

Ingredients

These cherry bars use my favorite blondie base and turn out perfectly every single time!

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted (1 stick))
– 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
– 3/4 to 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup cherries (fresh or frozen)

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-by-8-inch pan by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it lightly with cooking spray.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in about 60 seconds.

Step 3: Combine Sugar and Butter

Add the packed light brown sugar to the melted butter. Stir well until fully combined.

Step 4: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Add one large egg and two teaspoons of vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until well mixed.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add one cup of all-purpose flour and optional salt. Stir just until combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough blondies.

Step 6: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in three-fourths to one cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips along with one cup of cherries. You can leave the cherries whole for larger bites!

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth it out gently with a spatula or an offset knife if needed. Bake for about 27 to 32 minutes, or until you see the edges pulling away from the sides of the pan. The center should be set.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow your bars to cool for at least one hour before slicing into squares. These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or frozen for up to three months. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

These delightful Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as a dessert after dinner, or simply enjoying a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for a light and airy complement to the rich chocolate and cherries.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream. The melting ice cream creates a delicious contrast with the warm, gooey bars.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling melted chocolate sauce over each bar before serving.

Pair with Fresh Cherries

• Fresh cherries on the side not only enhance the flavor but also add a refreshing touch that balances the sweetness of the bars.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The flavors blend beautifully, making it a perfect afternoon snack.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces and serve them on a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies and brownies for an inviting display.

How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

To ensure your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. These will help you achieve that ideal texture and flavor that everyone will love.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in better mixing and results in a smoother batter.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined to keep the bars tender; overmixing can lead to tough blondies.

• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs for perfectly baked bars.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool before slicing helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or different types of chocolate chips for unique flavor twists.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars make an excellent dessert on their own but can also be paired with various side dishes to create an enjoyable dining experience. Here’s how you can enhance your meal with complementary sides:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

2. A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness perfectly.

3. Fruit Salad

4. A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds vibrancy and freshness to your dessert table.

5. Yogurt Parfait

6. Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy option that contrasts nicely with sweet bars.

7. Cheese Platter

8. Offer cheeses like Brie or Gouda; their creamy textures pair well with the richness of the bars.

9. Chocolate Fondue

10. Create an interactive dessert experience by offering chocolate fondue with fresh fruits and marshmallows for dipping.

11. Nut Mix

12. Provide a savory nut mix as an appetizer before diving into dessert; it balances sweetness beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for perfect results.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture. Always ensure that your butter is melted and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough bars. Mix only until you see no dry flour; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin your bars. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into warm bars may cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool for at least one hour before slicing.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key to great flavor. Check your baking powder and other ingredients for freshness before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

• Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars that you might find helpful.

Can I use frozen cherries in Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?

Yes, frozen cherries work well! Just make sure they are pitted and slightly thawed before adding them to the batter.

How do I customize my Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?

You can add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or even dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

How should I store leftover chocolate chip cherry bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes! You can experiment with almond flour or whole wheat flour, but be aware this may change the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are a delicious treat that offers versatility in both flavor and presentation. You can easily customize these bars with various mix-ins or toppings. Try making them today and enjoy this sweet sensation!