Chocolate Cherry Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Cherry Bars are the perfect fusion of fruity and chocolatey goodness. The sweetness of the cherries cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a balanced and satisfying dessert. They’re easy to prepare in one bowl, bake up quickly, and can be dressed up with a drizzle of ganache or served plain. Great for potlucks, lunchboxes, or just because.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Vanilla extract
• Fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, then mix in melted butter and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the cherries and chocolate chips, reserving a few for the top.
6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
7. Sprinkle reserved cherries and chocolate on top.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
9. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–16 bars. Prep time is 15 minutes, bake time is 30–35 minutes, and cooling time is about 30 minutes. Total time: approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Variations

• Cherry Almond Bars: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract and sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
• Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, and use plant-based butter and vegan chocolate.
• Frosted Version: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or cherry glaze once cooled.
• Black Forest Style: Add a swirl of cherry preserves on top before baking for a layered effect.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave individual bars for 15–20 seconds. These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned cherries?

Yes, but drain them well and pat dry before folding into the batter to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use cherry pie filling?

No, it’s too wet and sweet for this recipe. Use whole pitted cherries for best results.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they store well and can be made 1–2 days in advance.

Can I use dried cherries?

Yes, rehydrate them slightly in warm water or juice before using to soften them.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate pairs best with cherries, but milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter result.

Do these bars have a cakey or fudgy texture?

They are moist and fudgy, similar to brownies, especially when not overbaked.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time to about 40–45 minutes.

How do I get clean slices?

Let the bars cool completely, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Are these freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, walnuts or pecans add great crunch and pair well with the chocolate and cherry flavors.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Bars are a decadent, easy-to-make treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the bright flavor of cherries. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are guaranteed to impress. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, they’re bound to become a favorite in your dessert lineup.

Chocolate Cherry Bars

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Chocolate Cherry Bars are rich, fudgy bars packed with juicy cherries and chunks of chocolate. With a brownie-like texture and bold flavor, they’re perfect for chocolate lovers looking for an easy and indulgent dessert.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks (reserve a few for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8- or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, then mix in melted butter and vanilla extract.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cherries and chocolate chips, reserving a few for the top.
6. Spread batter evenly into prepared pan and top with reserved cherries and chocolate.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Notes

• Do not overbake to maintain fudgy texture.
• Toss cherries in flour before folding in to help distribute evenly.
• Let cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Try adding almond extract or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 17g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg