Chocolate Cherry Bars Treat

These Chocolate Cherry Magic Bars bring together rich cocoa, sweet cherries, and a delightful crunch for a treat that's perfect for any occasion. Inspired by the nostalgic Cherry Blossom candy, this recipe turns beloved flavors into an irresistible homemade dessert. Cut into small squares and kept in the freezer, they transform into a cool, chewy snack that my family can't get enough of.

It was love at first bite for me when I made these during a holiday gathering. Now they are a must-have on our dessert table and a crowd favorite wherever I take them.

Ingredients

• One cup granulated sugar: adds sweetness and helps bind the crust providing structure
• One cup all-purpose flour: acts as the base of the bars for that classic chewy yet firm texture
• Half a cup unsweetened cocoa powder: brings rich chocolate flavor opt for Dutch process if you want a smoother taste
• A quarter teaspoon salt: balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors perfectly
• A quarter teaspoon baking powder: helps the bars rise slightly giving a softer bite
• One third cup shredded coconut: contributes a subtle tropical flavor and chewy texture choose unsweetened for best balance
• One third cup chopped peanuts: adds crunch and nutty depth fresh roasted peanuts work best
• Half a cup (one stick) butter, melted: provides richness and melds all ingredients together
• One and a quarter cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: divided for melting into the batter and topping for bursts of chocolate in every bite
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: enhances the flavor complexity use pure extract over imitation if possible
• Two eggs: bind the mixture lending moisture and richness
• One 10-ounce jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved: give that distinctive bright cherry sweetness reminiscent of the classic candy
• Three quarters cup sweetened condensed milk: creates a luscious, creamy topping that locks in all the ingredients as it bakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sift the Dry Mix:

Combine granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder in a bowl and whisk thoroughly. Adding the shredded coconut and chopped peanuts then stir together ensures even distribution of crunchy and chewy elements in the batter.

Melt and Mix the Butter and Chocolate:

In a separate bowl, add melted butter, a quarter cup of chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture continuously until the chocolate chips melt and blend smoothly, creating a silky base for the batter.

Add Eggs and Combine Ingredients:

Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture beating well after each addition for smooth incorporation. Blend in half the dry ingredient mix followed by the remaining half, stirring thoroughly until no flour pockets remain and the batter holds together.

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Butter a deep nine by nine inch baking pan then line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easier removal. Press the batter evenly into the pan creating a uniform layer.

Layer Cherries and Chocolate:

Evenly scatter halved maraschino cherries and the remaining chocolate chips over the pressed batter. This layering provides visually appealing chunks of cherry and pockets of melty chocolate.

Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk:

Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire surface to soak through creating the signature magic bar finish.

Bake Until Set:

Bake in a preheated 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges turn golden and the center is firm without any jiggle.

Cool and Slice:

Allow the bars to cool completely preferably overnight to let flavors meld and texture set firm. Cut into small squares and serve chilled or freeze for an icy variation.

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My favorite part of this recipe is the maraschino cherries which bring that nostalgic pop of flavor reminding me of holidays spent baking with my grandmother when the kitchen was filled with laughter and the smell of chocolate.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper and freeze; they thaw quickly or can be enjoyed frozen for a refreshing treat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer, substitute the peanuts with walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor. Unsweetened shredded coconut can be replaced by sweetened if you like a bit more sweetness. Using dark chocolate chips brings a slightly more intense cocoa taste if you want to cut sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert. They are also perfect alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea providing a satisfying balance between sweet and bitter. For a festive touch, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top just before serving.

Cultural Context

Magic bars originated as an easy-to-make dessert using simple pantry staples and layering rather than mixing all ingredients completely. They became popular in American kitchens because of their convenience and deliciousness. The addition of maraschino cherries is a nostalgic nod to the Cherry Blossom candy that many grew up enjoying.

Pro Tips

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Toast the chopped peanuts lightly before mixing to boost their flavor and add an extra crunch. Do not skip melting part of the chocolate chips into the butter. This creates a luxurious texture and rich base. Be sure the bars are completely cool before slicing to ensure clean edges and perfect squares.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the maraschino cherries?

Fresh or frozen tart cherries work well as alternatives, though maraschino cherries add a unique sweetness and color contrast.

→ What is the best way to store these bars?

Keep the bars refrigerated or frozen in an airtight container to preserve freshness and maintain the ideal chewy texture.

→ Can I use different nuts instead of peanuts?

Yes, chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans can be used for similar crunch and flavor variations.

→ How do the sweetened condensed milk toppings affect the final texture?

The condensed milk creates a rich, caramel-like layer that sets firmly upon cooling, adding moisture and depth to the bars.

→ Is it necessary to chill the bars overnight?

Chilling helps the bars firm up completely, making slicing easier and enhancing the melding of flavors, but a few hours can suffice if short on time.