Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Name: Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars: Indulge in this Sweet Treat!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped

Posted on August 20, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I absolutely adore these Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars! They’re the perfect blend of rich chocolate and juicy cherries, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you need a quick dessert for a family gathering or a sweet pick-me-up after a long day, these bars are a fantastic solution. Plus, they’re so easy to make that even the most hectic days can’t stand in the way of this delicious indulgence!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

These Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars are a dream come true for busy lives! They come together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making them a quick and satisfying dessert. The combination of sweet cherries and rich chocolate creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing, so you can impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your bars, providing structure and a soft texture.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds richness and moisture. Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
Brown sugar: This brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cherries.

Granulated sugar: A touch of white sugar balances the flavors and helps with browning.
Large egg: Eggs bind the ingredients together and add moisture, making your bars tender.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making every bite more aromatic.

Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the bars rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Chocolate chips: The star of the show! You can use semi-sweet, dark, or even milk chocolate for a sweeter treat.

Pitted cherries: Fresh or frozen, these juicy gems add a burst of flavor and a lovely tartness.

For those looking to mix things up, consider using dark chocolate chips for a richer taste or adding nuts for a delightful crunch. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a sweet treat that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your bars bake evenly. While the oven warms up, grease your baking dish. I like to use a little butter or cooking spray to make sure the bars come out easily.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This process is key for achieving that light texture in your bars. The air you incorporate while creaming helps them rise beautifully!

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, add in the large egg and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined. The egg adds moisture, while the vanilla brings a warm, inviting aroma that makes your kitchen smell heavenly. Trust me, you’ll want to savor this moment!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is important because it ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour. It helps your bars rise and gives them that perfect texture.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that light and fluffy texture. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Here comes the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped cherries. Folding is a technique that helps keep the batter airy. You want to ensure the chocolate and cherries are evenly distributed without deflating your mixture.

Step 7: Spread and Bake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The aroma wafting through your home will be irresistible!

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a bit. This cooling time is essential; it allows the bars to set properly. After about 10-15 minutes, cut them into squares. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and watch them disappear!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming.
Use a rubber spatula to fold in the chocolate chips and cherries gently.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

Baking dish: A 9×9 inch square dish works perfectly, but any similar size will do.

Mixing bowls: Use one large bowl for wet ingredients and another for dry.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is great for folding, but a wooden spoon works too.
Whisk: Essential for mixing dry ingredients; a fork can be a handy substitute.

Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success!

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft bars.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

Fruit Fusion: Swap cherries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

For a festive presentation, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

FAQs about Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the texture of your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars.

How should I store the Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars?

Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are perfect for making ahead. You can bake them a day or two in advance. Just cool completely, store them properly, and they’ll be ready to enjoy whenever you need a sweet treat!

What can I substitute for the egg?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, a flax egg works wonderfully! Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will help bind your ingredients just like an egg would.

Can I add other mix-ins to the bars?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add nuts, coconut flakes, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a unique twist. Just remember to keep the total volume similar to maintain the right texture in your Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars.

Final Thoughts

Making these Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The joy of mixing ingredients, the delightful aroma wafting through your home, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces when they take that first bite are priceless. These bars are a simple yet satisfying treat that can brighten any day. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them solo with a cup of coffee, they remind us that life’s little pleasures are often the sweetest. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in this delightful experience!