If you’re searching for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of chocolate chips with the tartness of cherries, look no further than these tempting Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars. Not only are they easy to prepare, but their chewy texture and burst of flavor make them perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to late-night snacks.
Imagine biting into a warm, gooey square filled with rich chocolate and juicy cherries. These cherry-studded delights can quickly become a household favorite, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Whether you call them Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars or simply cherry chocolate bars, they promise satisfaction with every bite!
Delicious Flavor Combinations:
When it comes to baking, the harmony of flavors can elevate treats to an entirely new level. Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars perfectly embody this concept, where sweet chocolate mingles with tart cherries to create a delectable dessert. This combination not only delights the taste buds but also offers a vibrant color contrast that appeals to the eyes. The chewy texture of the cherries pairs beautifully with the soft, buttery bars, making each bite an irresistible experience.
For those who enjoy experimenting with flavor pairings, consider exploring other desserts, such as White Chocolate Raspberry Cookies, which showcase the art of combining chocolate with fruit in a delightful way. You might also like the complex tastes in Chocolate Kahlua Bailey’s Pudding Shots for an adult twist. Ultimately, the playful fusion of ingredients is key to baking delectable treats that satisfy cravings and create memorable moments.
Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars:
Indulging in delicious Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars is easy with the right ingredients. Here’s what you need:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt, optional
- ¾ to 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup cherries, fresh or frozen
These ingredients blend together to create bars that are both chewy and packed with flavor. The rich chocolate chips paired with fruity cherries offer a perfect balance. For an additional cherry dessert inspiration, check out these homemade cherry puff turnovers to diversify your cherry-infused delights. Enjoy the sweet and tart notes from the cherries juxtaposed with the smooth chocolate for a treat that’s hard to resist!
How to Prepare Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars:
To create delicious Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing an 8-inch square baking pan by greasing it lightly. In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 cup of light brown sugar, stirring until smooth. Next, crack in one large egg and add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate all ingredients. Gradually add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and a pinch of ¼ teaspoon salt, if desired, until just combined.
Now, fold in ¾ to 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of cherries—fresh or frozen works perfectly. Pour this delightful mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. For more cherry inspiration, check out Homemade Cherry Puff Turnovers. Once cooled, cut into bars, and enjoy a treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries. For a similar recipe, try Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies.
Baking Tips for Perfect Bars:
To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, pay close attention to your ingredients and baking process. Start by using room-temperature butter; it creams well with sugars, creating a fluffy batter. Next, opt for dark chocolate chips as they provide a rich contrast to the sweet cherries. Don’t forget to chop your cherries into smaller pieces; this ensures even distribution throughout the bars.
Additionally, monitor your baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry bars, while underbaking may result in a gooey center. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out with a few moist crumbs. For more delightful dessert ideas, check out our Gingerbread Pumpkin Chocolate recipe, where you can learn about combining flavors for unique treats. Lastly, let your bars cool completely before cutting them into squares; this will help maintain their shape and make them easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars:
Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars make a delightful treat for any occasion. You can enjoy them as a sweet snack or dessert. For an added indulgence, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melty ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate and tart cherries, enhancing the overall flavor experience. Furthermore, consider dusting the bars with powdered sugar or drizzling them with chocolate sauce for an elegant touch.
If you’re hosting a gathering, these bars can be a great addition to your dessert table. They pair nicely with a side of homemade cherry puff turnovers, creating a delicious cherry-themed spread. Additionally, cut the bars into smaller squares for easy serving. They’re also wonderful to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for brunches or afternoon gatherings. Overall, be creative with your pairings and presentation, and your guests will be sure to love these scrumptious chocolate chip cherry delights!
Storage Tips for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars:
To keep your delectable chocolate chip cherry bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Don’t forget to try similar treats like homemade cherry puff turnovers for a delightful variation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What are Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?
Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are delightful dessert squares combining rich chocolate chips with tart, juicy cherries, resulting in a deliciously sweet and tangy treat. Perfect for sharing or enjoying with coffee, they offer a unique twist on traditional dessert bars.
How do I store Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?
To keep your cherry bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them or even freeze individual pieces. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to maintain their freshness.
Can I use frozen cherries in the recipe?
Absolutely! If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries can be a fantastic substitute. Just remember to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before incorporating them into your cherry chocolate chip bars.
Are these bars customizable?
Yes! You can customize your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars by adding nuts, substituting different types of chocolate, or even incorporating spices like cinnamon for added flavor. For inspiration, consider checking out our Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars for creative variations.
What should I serve with Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?
These delicious bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a special touch, drizzling chocolate sauce on top will elevate the taste even further!
How long do Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars need to bake?
Generally, these bars require about 25 to 30 minutes of baking time in a preheated oven. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden and set in the center without being overbaked. Enjoy your baking!
Print
Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars: Indulge in This Sweet Delight
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these delicious Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, which combine the sweetness of chocolate chips with the tartness of cherries for a perfect dessert treat.
Ingredients
½ cup unsalted butter
melted (1 stick)
1 cup light brown sugar
packed
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
optional
¾ to 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup cherries
fresh or frozen*
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually add this to the wet mixture.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and cherries gently until evenly distributed.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars and serving.
Notes
You can use fresh or frozen cherries for this recipe. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them before adding. Adjust the chocolate chip quantity based on your preference!
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, dessert bars, chocolate dessert, cherry dessert, baking recipes