Name: Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar (light); 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup fresh cherries (pitted and chopped)

Print Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate, cherries, and buttery goodness that transforms a simple dessert into a euphoric experience. Imagine biting into a warm Chocolate Chip Cherry Bar, where sweet chocolate chips mingle with tart cherries, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds and wraps you in a cozy embrace. The aroma wafting from the oven is enough to make anyone weak in the knees, promising that first bite will be pure bliss.

I remember the first time I made these bars for a family gathering. My cousin Jenna took one bite and proclaimed it “life-changing,” which sparked a debate about whether we should start a fan club dedicated to these delicious treats. Whether you’re hosting a bake sale or just need a pick-me-up after binge-watching your favorite show, these Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are perfect for any occasion. indulgent chocolate coffee cake Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that will leave you craving more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy bakers
The rich flavor profile balances sweet chocolate with tart cherries beautifully
Visually, they come out looking like golden treasures studded with dark chocolate gems
Enjoy them as an afternoon snack or dessert at parties; they’re versatile enough for any situation

A few years ago, I brought these bars to my friend’s birthday party and watched as they disappeared faster than cake at a kid’s birthday bash. decadent chocolate birthday cake. For more inspiration, check out this Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cake recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Use standard all-purpose flour for the best texture; it gives structure without being too heavy.
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar sweetens the bars perfectly; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor; I usually go for that hint of caramel.
Baking Powder: This helps the bars rise nicely; make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter gives richness and helps achieve that chewy texture we crave.
Eggs: Large eggs bind everything together beautifully; room temperature works best.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds warmth and aroma; skip imitation—trust me!
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide that essential sweetness and gooeyness; use your favorite brand.
Fresh Cherries: Pitted cherries add bursts of tartness; opt for ripe ones for maximum flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. The mixture should smell invitingly sweet.

Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy—around 3-4 minutes should do it! You’ll know it’s ready when it’s pale and airy. fluffy banana Nutella muffins.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The batter should look velvety smooth by now!

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix! Gently fold in chocolate chips and chopped cherries for that delightful burst of flavor.

Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread evenly using a spatula. It’s okay if there are some lumps from the cherries; they just add character!

Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until edges are golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean but may have some melted chocolate on it—that’s good!

Let them cool before slicing so you don’t burn your mouth—not that I would know from personal experience or anything!

Now you have warm, gooey Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars ready to impress family and friends or simply indulge yourself! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about how you’ve just created something truly special in your kitchen! homemade buttercream frosting.

You Must Know

These chocolate chip cherry bars are a delightful fusion of sweet and tart
The chewy texture and rich flavors create a perfect treat for any occasion
Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an exquisite dessert experience that will please everyone!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the dry ingredients while melting butter to ensure even blending. This method guarantees your chocolate chip cherry bars bake evenly and come out perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this Homemade Crunch Bars recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cherries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. You can also add nuts or spices such as cinnamon for an extra flavor kick to make these bars uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store the chocolate chip cherry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked warmth again.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your butter is melted but not too hot; this prevents the chocolate from seizing
Using fresh cherries elevates flavor and juiciness, so don’t skimp on quality
Lastly, let them cool completely before cutting for clean edges and perfect squares

While baking these bars for my friend’s birthday, I watched everyone’s eyes light up with joy as they took their first bites. That moment reminded me how food brings people together in celebration.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cherries for chocolate chip cherry bars?

Yes, frozen cherries work well but ensure they are thawed and drained properly.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted will come out clean.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with almond or oat flour for a gluten-free version.

Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars