Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars
Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are a delightful dessert combining rich chocolate, tart cherries, and crunchy nuts, perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and sugars until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla; mix well.
- Incorporate baking powder and flour alternately with milk, mixing after each addition.
- Stir in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and quartered cherries with a spoon.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly, then drizzle top with powdered sugar frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can cut back on the white sugar and increase the brown sugar for more moisture. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness of the chocolate chips. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts altogether. These bars can also be made vegan by using flax eggs.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Lemon Cloud Pie for a delightful dessert spread. Consider serving with fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence. They also make a great lunchbox treat for kids and adults alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, pop a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold. For a special treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars contains roughly 619 calories, with 8g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to reduce excess moisture. This will help prevent the bars from becoming too soggy. Fresh cherries can also be a great alternative if in season.
What can I use instead of flour for a gluten-free version?
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the texture. This will allow you to enjoy the bars without gluten while maintaining a similar taste and consistency.
How can I make these bars more chocolaty?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding an extra 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. You could also mix in some cocoa powder to the batter, replacing a small amount of flour. For an indulgent twist, try drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving.
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).