Cherry Chocolate Bars
Cherry Chocolate Bars combine rich chocolate cake flavor with sweet cherry filling, topped with semi-sweet chocolate morsels. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease and flour a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- In a large bowl, add cake mix, cherry pie filling, almond extract, and beaten eggs; stir until well mixed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until done.
- Allow to cool before serving.
- Optional: Melt semi-sweet chocolate morsels and drizzle over cooled bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some chopped nuts or using a different extract like vanilla instead of almond. You can also substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry or peach for a different twist. Ensure the cake mix is fully incorporated without overmixing to keep the bars tender. If you like a sweeter treat, add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Chocolate Bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with coffee or a glass of milk. Consider serving them at gatherings or as a sweet treat after a meal, just like with Quick And Good Cobbler for a comforting dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. For best results, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm, which enhances the chocolate flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Chocolate Bars contains roughly 306 calories, with 3g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 18g fat.
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 cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix, such as vanilla or devil's food, to create different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind that the cherry pie filling will still provide some sweetness, so adjust sugar levels if needed.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix instead of regular cake mix, ensuring that all other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious treats.
How can I make these bars more festive for a special occasion?
To make these bars more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top after drizzling with melted chocolate. You could also serve them on a decorative platter with fresh cherries or mint leaves for a pop of color.
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).