Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes
Indulge in the rich flavors of Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars are a heavenly combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries. These bars are perfect for dessert lovers and can be enjoyed at any gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadent chocolate flavor paired with sweet cherries
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing
- A delightful treat for chocolate lovers
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars marry the rich taste of chocolate with the sweet tartness of cherries, creating an irresistible dessert that satisfies all cravings. The deep cocoa flavor forms a luscious base that complements the juicy cherries perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience. This unique combination not only pleases the palate but also adds a burst of color, making these bars visually appealing and perfect for any gathering.
These bars are not just delicious; they also evoke feelings of nostalgia for many. The pairing of chocolate and cherries is reminiscent of classic desserts and childhood treats, bringing back fond memories while satisfying your sweet tooth. Each bite is a celebration of flavor that can transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and laughter.
Easy to Make and Share
One of the best aspects of Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars is how simple they are to make. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. This recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro. The ease of preparation means you can quickly satisfy your sweet cravings or impress guests at a party without spending hours in the kitchen.
Moreover, these bars are ideal for sharing. They cut neatly into squares, making them perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or simply as a sweet treat for friends and family. The rich flavors and appealing presentation ensure that everyone will be reaching for seconds, making them a hit at any gathering.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once you've baked your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars, you'll want to store them properly to maintain their freshness. After they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to four days or in the refrigerator for a week. For longer-lasting treats, consider freezing them. Simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy a bar, thaw it at room temperature for a delicious, fudgy treat.
For serving, consider pairing your bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy textures complement the rich chocolate and sweet cherries beautifully, elevating your dessert experience. You can also serve them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of fresh cherries on top for added flair. These simple additions can transform your bars into a gourmet dessert that will impress anyone who tastes them.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped cherries.
Bake
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Top with Chocolate
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips on top. Let them melt for a few minutes, then spread evenly. If desired, sprinkle with walnuts.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars as a delightful dessert or treat!
Tips for Perfect Bars
To ensure your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars turn out perfectly every time, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small variations can affect the final product. Use a kitchen scale for the best results, especially for ingredients like flour and cocoa powder.
Another tip is to allow your melted butter to cool slightly before mixing it with the eggs. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and helps achieve a smoother batter. Additionally, be careful not to overmix when combining the wet and dry ingredients; mixing until just combined will give you the fudgy texture that makes these bars so delicious.
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to personalize your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars by experimenting with different types of chocolate. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, try using milk chocolate chips. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking to enhance the chocolate flavor and create a delightful contrast.
If cherries aren’t your favorite, consider substituting them with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist. Dried fruits, such as cranberries, can also work well in these bars, adding a chewy texture and unique flavor profile. Get creative and make this recipe your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cherries work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.
→ How should I store the bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative?
Absolutely! You can use coconut oil or any dairy-free butter substitute.
→ What can I use instead of walnuts?
You can omit them entirely or substitute with pecans or almonds for a different flavor.
Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars
Indulge in the rich flavors of Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 bars
What You'll Need
For the Bars
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped cherries.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips on top. Let them melt for a few minutes, then spread evenly. If desired, sprinkle with walnuts.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g