Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

These Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly combine the sweetness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries. With a soft, chewy blondie base, they make an excellent dessert for any occasion—be it a family gathering, casual get-together, or simply a cozy night in. Their versatility and rich flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Delicious Flavor Fusion: The combination of chocolate chips and cherries creates a mouth-watering taste that will impress your friends and family.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these bars warm or chilled; they are great on their own or served with a scoop of ice cream.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These bars can be made ahead and stored, making them an ideal sweet snack throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in mixing and pouring—it’s a fun way to bond over baking.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-by-8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Spatula or offset knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 8-by-8-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for creating thick, chewy bars that bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix ingredients easily without mess.
• Spatula or offset knife: Ideal for spreading batter evenly in the pan and slicing bars cleanly.

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. Line an 8-by-8-inch pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray; set aside.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter for about 60 seconds until fully liquefied.

Step 3: Mix in Sugar

To the melted butter, add the brown sugar. Stir well until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well blended.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, add flour and optional salt to the mixture. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix to keep your blondies tender.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Fold in chocolate chips along with your choice of cherries. If you prefer chunky bites, leave them whole instead of halving.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it lightly with a spatula if needed. Bake for about 27 to 32 minutes. Check when edges start pulling away from sides of the pan and center is set.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow the bars to cool for at least one hour before slicing into squares. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to one week—or freeze them for up to three months!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Serving Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars can be as simple or as fancy as you like. These delicious treats can be enjoyed on their own or paired with other flavors to enhance the experience.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the dense cherry bars perfectly.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also adds a beautiful presentation to the bars.

Topped with Fresh Cherries

• Garnishing each slice with fresh cherries elevates the look and freshness, making them even more inviting.

Alongside a Fruit Salad

• Pairing with a vibrant fruit salad brings a refreshing side that balances the sweetness of the bars.

How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

To achieve the ultimate Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, consider these helpful tips for a perfect bake every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your egg and butter are at room temperature helps them mix evenly into the batter.
• Do Not Overmix: Mixing just until combined prevents tough blondies; this keeps them soft and chewy.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if they’re done; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Letting them cool helps set the texture and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Yogurt – A creamy side that adds tanginess, perfect for balancing sweetness.
2. Mixed Berry Compote – This fruity sauce pairs beautifully and adds extra moisture and flavor.
3. Coffee – A warm cup of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the bars, making it an ideal pairing.
4. Tea – An herbal or chai tea can provide a comforting accompaniment, enhancing your dessert experience.
5. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can offer a savory counterpoint to the sweet bars.
6. Nut Mix – Offering some crunch, nuts add texture that contrasts well with the softness of the cherry bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars can be simple, but common mistakes can ruin your dessert. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always use room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and butter. Cold ingredients can affect the texture of your bars.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements. Incorrect amounts can alter the flavor and texture significantly.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Cutting them too soon can result in a mess rather than neat bars.
• Not Adjusting Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time as ovens vary. Check for doneness by looking for edges that pull away from the pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

• Freeze in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• Cut into individual portions before freezing for easier access later.

Reheating Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars that may help you in your baking journey.

Can I use frozen cherries in Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?

Yes! Frozen cherries work well; just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the batter.

What can I substitute for chocolate chips?

You can use white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips according to your preference. Chopped nuts also make a great addition!

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The edges should pull away slightly from the sides of the pan, and the center should be set but still soft.

Can I customize these Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other mix-ins like nuts or different fruits to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are a delightful treat that combines sweetness with a hint of tartness from cherries. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with various mix-ins or toppings. Give it a try and enjoy these delicious bars at any gathering or as a sweet snack!