Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

These Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. With a rich blondie base, these bars are not only easy to make but also come together quickly. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet at home, these cherry bars will impress with their delightful flavors and chewy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can whip these up in no time, with just 10 minutes of prep.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet chocolate chips perfectly complement the tart cherries.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, picnics, or simply as an everyday treat.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: Enjoy that classic blondie chewiness that everyone loves.
• Easily Customizable: Swap out cherries for your favorite fruits or nuts.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delectable Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-by-8-inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking spray
• Medium microwave-safe bowl
• Spatula or offset knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 8-by-8-inch baking pan: This size ensures even cooking and helps achieve those perfect edges.
• Aluminum foil: Lining your pan makes for easy cleanup and helps to prevent sticking.
• Cooking spray: It adds an extra layer of protection against sticking, ensuring your bars come out effortlessly.
• Spatula or offset knife: Ideal for smoothing out the batter and serving the bars after they cool.

Ingredients

These cherry bars use my favorite blondie base and turn out perfectly every single time!

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted (1 stick))
– 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
– 3/4 to 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup cherries (fresh or frozen)

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your 8-by-8-inch pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray; set aside.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter for about 60 seconds.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

Add the packed brown sugar to the melted butter and stir until well combined.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in one large egg along with two teaspoons of vanilla extract. Stir until everything is mixed nicely.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, add one cup of all-purpose flour and optional salt. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix or you risk tough blondies.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Fold in your semi-sweet chocolate chips and one cup of cherries. I prefer not to halve the cherries; I like them chunky and big!

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it lightly with a spatula if needed. Bake for 27 to 32 minutes, or until the edges start pulling away from the sides of the pan and the center is set.

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Allow your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars to cool for at least one hour before slicing into squares. These blondies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week, or frozen for up to three months.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Serving Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars can elevate your dessert experience. These bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Add a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream on top for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A warm drizzle of chocolate sauce enhances the rich taste of the bars, making them even more indulgent.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• A light dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the sweet and tart flavors of the cherries.

Top with Fresh Cherries

• Garnish your bars with fresh cherries for an eye-catching presentation and added freshness.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing these bars with a hot cup of coffee or tea creates a comforting afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

To ensure your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Start with ingredients like eggs and butter at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t over mix: Stir just until combined to keep the bars soft and chewy rather than tough.

• Check your oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

• Cool before slicing: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan; this will help them set properly and makes slicing easier.

• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts or switching up the type of chocolate chips for variety in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are delicious on their own, but pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
2. Cheese Platter: Pairing with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers a savory balance that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and berries create a light yet satisfying accompaniment.
4. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola adds texture alongside these soft bars.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel on your plate elevates presentation and flavor, adding richness.
6. Chocolate Milkshake: For an indulgent treat, serve alongside a chocolate milkshake for a classic dessert duo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Overmixing the Batter: Stirring too much can make your bars tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use standard measuring cups and spoons for consistent results.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into warm bars can lead to a mess. Let them cool completely for clean slices.
• Using Old Ingredients: Fresh ingredients yield better flavor. Check the freshness of your baking supplies before starting.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy and avoid undercooking or burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep bars separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap bars in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars so special?

Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars combine the sweetness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries, creating a delightful balance of flavors that everyone loves.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter.

How do I customize my Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?

Feel free to add nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or swap in different types of chocolate chips for unique flavor profiles.

How should I store leftover Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double all ingredients and use a larger baking pan for thicker bars.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a dessert that’s sure to impress!