Chocolate Cherry Bars

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and cherries that just sings in harmony, and today we’re diving into a delightful treat that perfectly encapsulates this duo. These Chocolate Cherry Bars are not only simple to whip up but also incredibly satisfying, making them a perfect dessert for gatherings, parties, or just to indulge yourself after a long day. With a few pantry staples and the rich flavor of chocolate mingling with sweet cherry pie filling, you’ll be in dessert heaven in no time!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What truly sets these Chocolate Cherry Bars apart is their incredible flavor profile and the ease of preparation. By utilizing a devil’s food cake mix as the base, we save time without sacrificing taste. The addition of cherry pie filling brings moisture and a burst of fruity flavor that complements the rich chocolate beautifully. Plus, the almond extract gives a subtle, nutty undertone that elevates the entire dessert. It’s like a cherry chocolate explosion in every bite!

What You’ll Need

To make these scrumptious Chocolate Cherry Bars, gather the following ingredients:

• 15.25 ounces devil’s food cake mix
• 21 ounces cherry pie filling
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 beaten eggs
• 2 cups sugar
• 8 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup milk
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you get started, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Whisk or electric mixer – to blend the batter smoothly.
• 9×13-inch baking pan – the perfect size for these bars.
• Spatula – for spreading the batter evenly.
• Oven mitts – safety first!

Make Chocolate Cherry Bars: A Simple Method

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Chocolate Cherry Bars:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the devil’s food cake mix and sugar. Whisk them together until they are well mixed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

To your dry mixture, add the melted butter, beaten eggs, milk, and almond extract. Mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 4: Fold in Cherry Pie Filling

Gently fold in the cherry pie filling. This adds moisture and sweetness, so take your time to incorporate it without breaking up the cherries too much.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. This cooling time helps them set properly.

How to Make It Lighter

If you’re looking to lighten up these Chocolate Cherry Bars, consider these options:

• Use a sugar substitute to reduce calories and sugar content.
• Replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
• Opt for low-fat or almond milk instead of whole milk.
• Use egg whites instead of whole eggs to cut down on cholesterol.

Notes on Ingredients

The ingredients for these Chocolate Cherry Bars can have a significant impact on the final product:

Using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips will enhance the chocolate flavor. If you prefer a darker chocolate, feel free to use bittersweet chocolate chips instead. The cherry pie filling should be a brand you trust for the best flavor; homemade filling can also be a delightful substitute if you have the time. Lastly, almond extract adds a unique flavor, but you can substitute it with vanilla extract if preferred.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your Chocolate Cherry Bars fresh:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply microwave a piece for about 10-15 seconds. These bars also freeze well; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Chocolate Cherry Bars Q&A

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, you can! If using fresh cherries, pit and chop them, then mix them with some sugar to create a sweet filling. Keep in mind that fresh cherries will not provide the same level of moisture as pie filling.

How can I make these bars more chocolatey?

For an extra chocolatey experience, add additional chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the devil’s food cake mix with a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Make sure to check all other ingredients for gluten content.

What should I serve with these bars?

These Chocolate Cherry Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast.

Desserts to Finish

If you’re in the mood for more delectable treats, try these:

• Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars
• Chocolate Fudge Cookie Sandwiches

Save & Share

If you love these Chocolate Cherry Bars, don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family! Whether you post it on social media or keep it secret for your own enjoyment, these bars are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can whip up these delicious treats anytime. Enjoy the decadent blend of chocolate and cherries, and watch them disappear in a flash!