Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

These Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and tart cherries, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these bars deliver a soft, chewy texture and a burst of fruity goodness. With an easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll find that they turn out perfectly every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy these bars as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast on the go!
• Perfect for Sharing: With 9 servings, these bars are great for parties or potlucks, ensuring everyone gets a delicious treat.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-by-8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking, resulting in perfectly cooked bars.
• Mixing Bowls: Using multiple bowls helps keep your workspace organized and makes mixing easier.
• Spatula: A spatula is perfect for folding in ingredients without overmixing, which is key to achieving the right texture.

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. Prepare an 8-by-8-inch baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it lightly with cooking spray. Set it aside while you mix the ingredients.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

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

Step 3: Combine Butter and Sugar

Add the packed light brown sugar to the melted butter. Stir until fully combined, creating a smooth mixture.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Crack in the large egg and add vanilla extract. Stir well to combine all ingredients before moving on to the dry elements.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

Add all-purpose flour and salt (if using). Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix as this can make your blondies tough.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Gently fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips and cherries. If using whole cherries, you can leave them as they are for a chunkier texture.

Step 7: Bake the Bars

Pour your batter into the prepared pan. Smooth it out if necessary. Bake for 27 to 32 minutes or until the edges start pulling away from the sides of the pan, indicating that they’re ready.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow your chocolate chip cherry bars to cool for at least one hour before slicing into squares. You can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to one week. They also freeze well for up to three months!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them warm or at room temperature, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends.

Enjoy Warm

• Serve warm from the oven for a gooey texture that enhances the chocolate and cherry flavors.

With Ice Cream

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream for a classic dessert combination that balances sweetness and richness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for extra indulgence, making each bite even more flavorful.

As a Snack

• Cut into smaller squares for an easy snack option that’s perfect for lunchboxes or afternoon cravings.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh cherries or berries to add a refreshing touch and complement the flavors in the bars.

How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

To ensure your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing ingredients like eggs and butter to room temperature helps them combine better, creating a smoother batter.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently stir the batter until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough bars instead of soft and chewy ones.

• Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating they are done without being overbaked.

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing the bars to cool completely ensures clean cuts and helps maintain their structure when you slice them.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

When serving Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, consider pairing them with these delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert experience.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream complements the density of the bars beautifully.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delicious contrast in textures.
4. Nut Butter Dip: A side of almond or peanut butter provides a rich nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet bars.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an unexpected savory twist.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These add an elegant touch while echoing the chocolate theme of the bars.
7. Tea or Coffee: A warm beverage pairs well, enhancing both flavors and providing a comforting experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Stir until just combined for a soft texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure consistent results.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing the bars to cool helps them set properly. Cutting too soon can result in messy slices.
• Using old or stale ingredients – Fresh ingredients make a difference. Check your baking supplies regularly for freshness.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy – An inaccurate oven can affect baking times. Use an oven thermometer for precise results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep in a cool part of the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
• Microwave – Heat one bar at a time on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars that may help you.

How can I customize Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?

You can add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or even swap cherries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well in this recipe; just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

What if I don’t have semi-sweet chocolate chips?

You can substitute with dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Look for edges that slightly pull away from the pan and a firm center. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger pan (like a 9×13-inch) and adjust the baking time accordingly, checking frequently as it may take longer.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are not only delicious but also very versatile. You can easily customize them with different fruits or chocolates to suit your taste. They make for a delightful treat any time of day, so don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!