Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars Recipe

If you are craving a delicious treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate and juicy bursts of fruit, these Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are an absolute must-try. Imagine a tender, buttery blondie base studded with loads of semi-sweet chocolate chips and fresh or frozen cherries that add a lovely tangy sweetness to every bite. These bars pull together the best of both worlds—gooey chocolate and bright, fruity charm—in one irresistible dessert that’s ideal for any occasion, from cozy afternoons to festive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a vital role in building the perfect texture and flavor profile of the Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars. From the butter that gives them richness, to the cherries that add freshness, every item contributes to a harmonious, mouthwatering result.

• Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup (melted, 1 stick): Provides the luscious fat base that keeps the bars tender and moist.
• Light brown sugar, 1 cup (packed): Adds a subtle caramel depth and chewiness to the bars.
• Large egg, 1: Acts as a binder to hold everything together and aid in giving the bars their structure.
• Vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, fragrant note.
• All-purpose flour, 1 cup: The foundation that lends structure while keeping the bars soft.
• Salt, 1/4 teaspoon (optional): Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors subtly.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips, 3/4 to 1 cup: Create pockets of melty chocolate bliss throughout.
• Cherries, 1 cup (fresh or frozen): Inject bright, juicy bursts that brighten the rich flavors.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F, the perfect temperature to bake your bars evenly without drying them out. Line an 8-by-8-inch pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray to ensure your bars come out effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Place the butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl and melt it for about 60 seconds. This step is crucial since melted butter forms the luscious base of your blondies, contributing that rich, tender crumb we all love in bars like these.

Step 3: Combine Sugar and Butter

Once melted, whisk in the packed light brown sugar until fully combined. This mixture starts to build that deep, caramelized sweetness which makes Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars unforgettable.

Step 4: Add Egg and Flavor

Next, stir in the egg and vanilla extract. These ingredients enhance the flavor and give structure to your bars, helping them hold together while keeping a soft, moist texture inside.

Step 5: Mix in Flour and Salt

Gently incorporate the flour and optional salt, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworking the batter can make your bars tough, and we want tender and chewy every time!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Now, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and cherries. Keeping the cherries chunky adds fantastic texture and juicy pops of flavor—don’t halve them unless you prefer smaller bursts in each bite. This is where your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars start looking and smelling absolutely delightful.

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top lightly with a spatula or offset knife. Bake for 27 to 32 minutes until the edges begin to pull away slightly from the pan and the center feels set but still soft. This ensures a chewy, tender bar rather than a dry, overbaked one.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool for at least one hour before slicing. Patience is your friend here as this resting time lets the bars set up for clean slices that hold their shape but remain soft and gooey inside.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Garnishes

For an eye-catching finish, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar on top or drizzle some melted chocolate over your bars. Adding a few fresh cherry halves on the plate can beautifully echo the fruitiness inside, making your presentation tempting enough to eat with your eyes first.

Side Dishes

These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance their rich sweetness. Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea to create a cozy, indulgent snack or dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and stacking them on a dessert platter for parties or casual get-togethers. You can also sandwich a layer of mascarpone cheese or cream cheese frosting between two bars for a decadent treat packed with texture and flavor surprises.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week. Keeping them sealed well helps maintain their softness and prevents drying out.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months without losing flavor or texture, making them a great make-ahead dessert option.

Reheating

To enjoy the bars warm and gooey, reheat them gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or place wrapped bars in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 to 7 minutes. This quick reheating revives their soft, melty qualities as if freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding extra moisture to the batter.

What if I don’t have an 8-by-8-inch pan?

You can use a 9-by-9-inch pan instead, but keep an eye on the baking time as the bars may cook a bit faster. Adjust as needed and test with a toothpick to check doneness.

Can I substitute chocolate chips with a different kind of chocolate?

Yes! White chocolate, dark chocolate chunks, or even butterscotch chips are delicious alternatives that can bring new flavor twists to your bars.

Do I have to use brown sugar?

Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor, but you can swap in white granulated sugar if you prefer a lighter taste and crisper texture.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Look for the edges beginning to pull away slightly from the pan and the center set but still soft. The bars should spring back lightly when touched, indicating perfect doneness without dryness.

Final Thoughts

Every bite of these Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars delivers a delightful mix of gooey chocolate and bright cherry flavors wrapped in a buttery blondie base. They are easy to make, wonderfully versatile, and guaranteed to become a treasured favorite in your dessert rotation. Don’t wait to whip up a batch—you’ll be so glad you did!

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