Cherry Scotchies
Cherry Scotchies are sweet, chewy bars with the tartness of maraschino cherries and the rich flavor of butterscotch chips, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixer bowl, combine 2 cups flour, brown sugar, coconut, butter, egg, baking powder, salt, and vanilla.
- Beat at low speed until well mixed.
- In a small bowl, toss drained cherries with 2 tablespoons flour.
- Stir in butterscotch chips.
- Spread the mixture in a greased and floured pan.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Cool completely.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar and cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using light brown sugar instead of dark. You can substitute walnuts for the butterscotch chips if you prefer a nuttier flavor. If you don't have maraschino cherries, fresh or frozen cherries can work well too, just make sure to pit them. Mixing in some coconut can also add a delightful texture. Ensure you mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the bars tender.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Scotchies are perfect as a sweet snack or dessert. Serve them with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat, or pair them with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. They also make a great addition to holiday gatherings or potlucks. For a different flavor experience, try serving them alongside a scoop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cherry Scotchies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bars for up to three months. To reheat, place them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold. They can also be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Scotchies contains roughly 326 calories, with 3g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 860mg per serving (37% 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 fruit in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute fresh blueberries, diced peaches, or even cranberries for the maraschino cherries. Just ensure that the fruit is well-drained if using canned or frozen to avoid excess moisture. Each fruit will add its own unique flavor and texture to the bars.
What can I do if my batter is too dry?
If the batter feels too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to moisten it up. Additionally, ensure that the butter is softened properly and not too hard, which can affect the consistency. Mixing just until combined and not overworking the batter will also help maintain the right texture.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The Cherry Scotchies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven.
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).