Cherry Fudge Bars
Indulge in the rich and chewy Cherry Fudge Bars, a delightful treat that perfectly blends the sweetness of cherry pie filling with the decadence of fudge cake. Ideal for gatherings or as a sweet snack, these bars are sure to please both chocolate and cherry lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° and grease a 12 x 10 x 1-inch cookie sheet.
- In a large bowl, mix the fudge cake mix, cherry pie filling, almond extract, and beaten eggs with a spoon.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared pan and bake for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Use the clean toothpick test to check for doneness.
- Frost the cake with chocolate fudge frosting when cooled.
- Cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding mini chocolate chips to the batter. If you want to substitute the cherry pie filling, you can use other fruit fillings like blueberry or raspberry for a different twist. Ensure that the almond extract is well incorporated for a balanced taste. If you're in a hurry, you can skip the frosting and serve the bars plain or dusted with powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Fudge Bars are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. They also make a great treat for gatherings or potlucks. Consider serving them alongside coffee or tea, or even with a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, try serving with a slice of Grandma'S Cherry Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cherry Fudge Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Fudge Bars contains roughly 178 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 10g 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 cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute the fudge cake mix with other flavors, such as chocolate or vanilla. Just remember that the flavor profile will change, so choose a mix that complements the cherry pie filling. Vanilla cake mix can create a lighter taste, while chocolate will enhance the fudginess.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bars are ready. Keep in mind that they will continue to set as they cool, so it's better to slightly underbake than overbake them.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They also freeze well, so you can prepare them weeks ahead and thaw them when needed for a special occasion or a sweet treat.
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).