Name: Chocolate Cherry Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 package Devil's Food Cake Mix (18.25 oz); 1 can Cherry Pie Filling (21 oz); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract; 3 eggs Eggs (beaten); 1 cup Sugar; 1/3 cup Milk; 5 tablespoons Butter; 1 cup Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips; 1/4 teaspoon Almond Extract

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Every time I think about making Chocolate Cherry Bars, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the air was filled with the sweet scent of chocolate and cherries. These bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a piece of nostalgia, reminiscent of family gatherings and celebrations. My mom often whipped them up as a special treat, and I remember eagerly waiting for them to cool so I could sneak a bite. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries is truly magical, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Whether it’s a festive occasion or a random Tuesday, these bars never fail to bring joy to my family and friends. I’ve made countless variations over the years, but the classic recipe always holds a special place in my heart. If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or simply satisfy a sweet craving, I can’t recommend these bars enough.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Blender, Baking Sheet, Food Processor, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Large Pot

Why This Chocolate Cherry Bars Works

They’re Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the best things about Chocolate Cherry Bars is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. No complicated techniques or fancy equipment needed—just mix, pour, and bake!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These bars shine at parties, potlucks, or even as an afternoon pick-me-up. Their vibrant color and rich flavor will catch anyone’s eye, making them a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re easy to cut into squares, making them ideal for serving.

Versatile Flavor Profile

The combination of chocolate and cherries is timeless. The sweetness of the chocolate perfectly balances the tartness of the cherries, creating a harmonious blend that works well for any palate. You can even customize them by adding nuts or swapping the type of chocolate used for a different taste experience.

Great for Sharing

There’s something special about sharing homemade treats. These Chocolate Cherry Bars are perfect for sharing with neighbors, friends, or colleagues. They’re great for building connections and spreading happiness, one square at a time.

Kid-Friendly Fun

If you have little ones, involve them in the baking process! They’ll love mixing the ingredients and, of course, sneaking bites of the batter. It’s a great way to create memories together in the kitchen.

Customize to Your Taste

Feeling adventurous? You can play around with the recipe. Add a dash of your favorite spices or even incorporate a different fruit. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes these bars so exciting!

What Goes Into Chocolate Cherry Bars

When it comes to baking, the ingredients you choose play a crucial role in the final outcome. For Chocolate Cherry Bars, we combine the richness of chocolate with the delightful burst of cherries to create a bar that’s both moist and flavorful. Each ingredient serves a purpose, working harmoniously to ensure the perfect texture and taste.

Devil’s Food Cake Mix: The base of these bars, bringing chocolate flavor and moisture. It saves time while ensuring a rich taste.
Cherry Pie Filling: Adds both sweetness and a tart burst of flavor. It’s the star ingredient that makes these bars stand out.
Almond Extract: A hint of almond enhances the overall flavor, giving a delightful depth to the chocolate.
Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding moisture.
Sugar: Provides sweetness and contributes to the bar’s overall texture.
Milk: Adds moisture and richness, balancing the dry ingredients.
Butter: Ensures the bars stay moist and tender, preventing them from becoming too dense.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: A delicious addition that melts beautifully, creating pockets of gooey chocolate.
Almond Extract (additional): Further enhances the flavor, making every bite more delicious.

Making Chocolate Cherry Bars

Making Chocolate Cherry Bars is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dessert. Don’t forget to gather all your ingredients beforehand so you can enjoy the process without interruptions.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly. While the oven is heating, grease and flour either a 15x10x1-inch baking pan or a 13×9-inch baking dish, depending on your preference for thicker or thinner bars. The greasing step is crucial to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Devil’s Food Cake Mix, cherry pie filling, almond extract, and eggs. Using a stand mixer or mixing by hand, stir until well blended. If you choose to use a stand mixer, it will help break up the cherries more, resulting in a more uniform batter. This mixture should be thick and slightly lumpy from the cherries.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure to get into the corners so every piece bakes evenly. The batter will look rich and chocolaty—just wait until it bakes!
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake. If you’re using the 15x10x1-inch pan, bake for 20 to 30 minutes. For a thicker batch in a 13×9-inch pan, aim for 25 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the bars are baking, prepare the topping. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, milk, and butter. Bring this concoction to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir constantly for about 1 minute—this will create a smooth and creamy topping.
Once your mixture has boiled, remove it from the heat. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and almond extract until everything is well combined and melted. The mixture should be glossy and smooth.
When the bars are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately pour the chocolate topping over the warm bars. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This topping will melt slightly into the bars, creating a decadent layer.
Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 2 hours, or until completely cooled. If you’re impatient like me, you can speed this up by placing them in the fridge. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares.
Now enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Bars! They’re perfect for parties or just a sweet treat for yourself.

Things Worth Knowing

Check for Doneness: Make sure to test with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bars are ready!
Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This ensures they hold their shape and won’t crumble.
Serving Size: These bars can be cut into small squares, making them easy for sharing. Consider serving them with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!
Storage Tips: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days or in the refrigerator for a week.
Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor. Don’t skimp on the good stuff!

Recipe Variations about Chocolate Cherry Bars

Experimenting with your Chocolate Cherry Bars can add a fun twist to this classic recipe. Here are some variations to consider:

Nutty Delight: Add a cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added crunch.
Fruit Fusion: Swap out cherry pie filling for other fruit fillings like blueberry or raspberry for a different flavor.
Chocolate Overload: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.
Frosted Bars: After cooling, top the bars with a layer of cream cheese frosting for a creamy contrast.
Mini Bars: Use a mini muffin tin to make bite-sized versions that are perfect for parties.
Gluten-Free Option: Look for gluten-free cake mix options to make these bars suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Storage: To keep these bars fresh, consider wrapping individual squares in plastic wrap.
Freezing: You can freeze these bars in an airtight container for up to three months. Just thaw before serving.
Pairing: Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

What Goes Well With This Chocolate Cherry Bars

Serving Chocolate Cherry Bars can be just as enjoyable as making them! Here are some ideas for side dishes and occasions that pair beautifully with these bars:

Coffee or Tea: Pair these bars with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side complements the chocolate perfectly.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can balance the richness of the bars, adding a refreshing contrast.
Picnics: These bars are perfect for outdoor gatherings. They’re easy to pack and serve.
Birthday Parties: Delight guests at a birthday with these colorful dessert bars as a sweet treat.
Potluck Dinners: Share these bars at your next potluck, and watch them disappear quickly.
Seasonal Celebrations: They’re great for holidays, family reunions, or any festive occasion throughout the year.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.
Thawing Frozen Bars: If you freeze them, thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

FAQ

Absolutely! While cherry pie filling is the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings like blueberry, raspberry, or even peach. Each fruit will lend its unique flavor to the bars, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking. Just ensure that the fruit filling is similar in consistency to the cherry filling for best results.

To store your Chocolate Cherry Bars, place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to four days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for a week. If you decide to freeze them, wrap each square in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving!

These Chocolate Cherry Bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some whipped cream on top for an extra treat. They also make an excellent dessert for parties or picnics when served alongside fresh fruit salad or coffee. Don’t hesitate to present them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a lovely presentation!

Yes, you can! To make Chocolate Cherry Bars gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Many brands offer gluten-free options that taste just as delicious as the regular ones. Just make sure to check the ingredient list for any additional allergens if you’re accommodating specific dietary needs.

Conclusion

The beauty of Chocolate Cherry Bars lies in their delectable combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries, creating a dessert that is both nostalgic and delightful. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a wonderful way to bring joy to your table and create lasting memories with loved ones. Whether for a family gathering or a quiet night in, these bars are sure to impress!