Chocolate Cherry Fudge Bars
Decadent chocolate cherry fudge bars combine rich chocolate flavor with sweet cherry filling, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat at home.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Using solid shortening or margarine, grease and flour a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan or a 13x9-inch pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the fudge cake mix, almond extract, cherry pie filling, and beaten eggs.
- Stir by hand until well mixed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes if using a jelly roll pan or 25-30 minutes for a 13x9-inch pan, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute. Be sure to mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in denser bars. For extra decadence, drizzle melted Caramel Icing over the cooled bars before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Cherry Fudge Bars are delightful on their own, but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. They also pair beautifully with a drizzle of Creamy Garlic Salad Dressing for an unconventional twist. For a festive touch, serve them topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fudge bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring they don't become too hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Cherry Fudge Bars contains roughly 153 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 17g 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 fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you'll need to sweeten them as they won't have the syrupy sweetness of the pie filling. Consider adding some sugar or a bit of cherry juice to replicate the flavor and moisture the filling provides.
How do I know when the fudge bars are done baking?
The fudge bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them, especially towards the end of the baking time, to prevent overbaking, which can dry them out.
Can I freeze these fudge bars?
Yes, you can freeze Chocolate Cherry Fudge Bars! Once completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
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).