Cherry Choco Bars
Rich cherry and chocolate flavors combine in these moist bars, perfect for dessert or snack time, appealing to chocolate lovers and cherry enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs by hand in a mixing bowl.
- Add cake mix, cherry pie filling, and vanilla extract; stir until combined, do not beat.
- Spread the batter evenly in a greased and floured jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool before cutting into bars.
- Optional: Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled bars for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate. If you're short on eggs, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to grease your jelly roll pan well to prevent sticking. If you want a more intense cherry flavor, add a splash of cherry extract to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Choco Bars are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. They also go well with a cup of coffee or tea. For an elegant touch, serve alongside slices of Aunt Marsha's Chocolate Pie to please your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry Choco Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm. For a warm serving, drizzle with melted chocolate just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Choco Bars contains roughly 351 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you'll need to sweeten them with sugar and possibly add a thickener like cornstarch to mimic the consistency of pie filling. Aim for about 2 cups of pitted and chopped fresh cherries.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can substitute margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative works well in this recipe.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
To check if the bars are done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry them out.
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).