7 Layer Chocolate Cherry Bars
These rich 7 Layer Chocolate Cherry Bars combine chocolate, nuts, coconut, and cherry pie filling for a decadent treat perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a 9 x 13-inch pan on stovetop.
- Remove from heat once melted.
- Use a blender to turn graham crackers into crumbs and spread evenly over the melted margarine in the pan.
- Spread semi-sweet chocolate chips over the graham cracker crumbs.
- Spread chopped nuts and coconut over the chocolate chips.
- Pour half of the condensed sweetened milk over the mixture.
- Spread the can of cherry pie filling over all the layers.
- Drizzle the remaining condensed milk over the cherry pie filling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Let cool, then cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking to reduce sweetness, you can cut back on the condensed milk or substitute with a sugar-free version. To add a bit of crunch, try mixing in some crushed pretzels or using a combination of nuts. If you want a different fruit flavor, experiment with blueberry or strawberry pie filling.
Serving Suggestions
These delicious bars are perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat after dinner. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them during holidays or gatherings, alongside dishes like Gig'S Fruit Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm. They can also be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 7 Layer Chocolate Cherry Bars contains roughly 1438 calories, with 14g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 960mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts or pecans for the chopped nuts. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply leave them out or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added texture.
Is it necessary to bake the bars?
Baking helps to set the layers and meld the flavors together. However, if you prefer a no-bake version, you can chill the layers in the refrigerator until firm and then cut them into bars. Just ensure the ingredients are well-combined.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these bars a day in advance. They actually taste better after resting, as the flavors have time to blend. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).