Super Tasty Cherry Mash Bars Recipe Everyone Will Adore

Sweet temptations reach new heights with these cherry mash bars that blend nostalgic candy flavors into a decadent dessert.

Chocolate and cherry merge in a delightful dance of indulgence.

Creamy maraschino cherries create a vibrant layer of sweetness nestled between rich chocolate.

Each bite promises a symphony of classic candy nostalgia and homemade charm.

Layers of smooth chocolate and bright cherry filling make these bars an irresistible treat.

The recipe captures childhood memories in every delectable square.

Dive into this delicious creation and savor a moment of pure confectionery bliss.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Calories: 322 kcal

Servings: 15

Ingredients Used In Cherry Mash Bars

• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a smooth, creamy texture for the base layer.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the cherry mixture together, creating a luscious foundation.
• Maraschino Cherries: Brings vibrant color and intense cherry flavor to the bars.
• Cherry Juice: Enhances the cherry essence and helps achieve the right consistency.
• Almond Extract: Adds a subtle, nutty undertone that complements the cherry flavor beautifully.

• Chocolate Chips: Creates a rich, glossy chocolate layer that adds decadence to the bars.
• Peanut Butter: Provides a creamy texture and deep, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
• Chopped Peanuts: Introduces a delightful crunch and additional nutty dimension to the topping.

• Parchment Paper or Baking Spray: Ensures easy removal of the bars and prevents sticking.

Tools You’ll Need For Cherry Mash Bars

• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining cherry layer ingredients smoothly and easily.
• Spatula: Essential for spreading cherry mixture and chocolate-peanut topping evenly.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal size for creating uniform cherry mash bars.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Necessary for melting chocolate chips and peanut butter without burning.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Sharp knife: Helps cut chilled bars into neat squares.

How To Make Cherry Mash Bars

• Cherry Foundation

Create a luscious base by blending powdered sugar with butter until silky smooth. Fold in vibrant maraschino cherries, splash of their ruby juice, and a hint of almond magic. Spread this dreamy mixture into a prepared pan, transforming it into a cherry canvas. Send it to the freezer for a quick chill.

• Chocolate Cascade

Melt chocolate and peanut butter together into a glossy river. Sprinkle in crunchy peanut pieces for texture excitement. This golden-brown layer will crown your cherry masterpiece.

• Layered Delight

Retrieve the frosty cherry foundation. Pour the molten chocolate mixture over the top, creating a seamless blanket that hugs every cherry corner. Let the layers embrace each other.

• Patience and Transformation

Allow your creation to rest in the refrigerator, letting flavors mingle and texture settle. The bars will transform from simple ingredients into a decadent treat.

• Celebration Slice

When firm, slice into elegant squares. Each bite promises a symphony of cherry sweetness and nutty chocolate richness. Serve and watch smiles bloom.

Simple Tips For Cherry Mash Bars

• Perfect Texture Tricks: Freeze the cherry layer completely before adding the chocolate topping to prevent mixing and ensure distinct layers. This technique guarantees clean, professional-looking bars every time.
• No-Fail Moisture Balance: Use room temperature butter when mixing the cherry layer to achieve a smoother, more spreadable consistency without lumps or dry patches.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap regular powdered sugar for a certified gluten-free version and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified. This simple switch makes the bars safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Transformation: Replace butter with coconut oil, use dairy-free chocolate chips, and substitute peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter. Add a pinch of salt to maintain depth of flavor in the vegan version.
• Make-Ahead Magic: These bars can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Ways To Enjoy Cherry Mash Bars

• Festive Party Platter: Arrange these cherry mash bars on a decorative tray with fresh mint leaves and powdered sugar dusting for a stunning dessert presentation.
• Sweet Gifting Delight: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper with a cute ribbon, perfect for homemade holiday or birthday treats that wow friends and family.
• Dessert Pairing Magic: Serve alongside vanilla bean ice cream or pair with a rich espresso to complement the cherry and chocolate flavors, creating a decadent tasting experience.
• Chilled Dessert Hack: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a convenient make-ahead treat for unexpected guests or sudden sweet cravings.

How To Keep Cherry Mash Bars Tasting Great

• Fridge Friendly Storage: Keep bars in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 7 days. The cool environment maintains their texture and prevents melting.
• Weekend Batch Prep: Make a double batch and freeze up to 3 months. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then store in freezer-safe containers for quick dessert access.
• Temperature Tips: Always serve slightly chilled for best taste and texture. Let bars sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before enjoying to soften chocolate slightly.
• Smart Layering Strategy: When storing, place wax paper between bar layers to prevent sticking. Stack carefully to maintain the beautiful chocolate and cherry design created during preparation.

Decadent Cherry Mash Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: 15 1x

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Description

Homemade cherry mash bars combine nostalgic midwest candy with rich chocolate layers. Chocolate lovers can craft this delightful dessert featuring sweet cherry filling and smooth chocolate coating.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups (350 g / 12.35 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup (250 g / 8.82 oz) creamy peanut butter
• 1 jar (10 oz / 285 g) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
• 2 cups (200 g / 7.05 oz) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (115 g / 4.06 oz) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120 g / 4.23 oz) chopped peanuts
• ¼ cup (60 ml / 2 fl oz) maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
• 1 tsp almond extract

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Instructions

1. Cherry Base Preparation: Whip butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Incorporate maraschino cherries, cherry juice, and almond extract, blending into a smooth, vibrant mixture.
2. Chilling Foundation: Spread the cherry mixture evenly in a prepared baking dish. Freeze for 30 minutes until firm and compact.
3. Chocolate-Peanut Topping Creation: Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter in the microwave, stirring until glossy. Fold in chopped peanuts for textural complexity.
4. Layer Assembly: Remove cherry base from freezer and pour the warm chocolate-peanut mixture over the surface, using a spatula to ensure complete and seamless coverage.
5. Setting and Finishing: Refrigerate for a minimum of two hours until completely solidified. Once set, slice into precise squares or rectangular portions. Serve chilled or allow a brief moment at room temperature to soften slightly.

Notes

• Chill Precisely: Freeze the cherry layer exactly 30 minutes for the perfect consistency, preventing crumbling or soft texture.
• Melt Chocolate Carefully: Use short microwave bursts and stir frequently to avoid burning chocolate, ensuring smooth and glossy coating.
• Customize Cherry Intensity: Adjust maraschino cherry quantity for stronger or milder fruit flavor, matching personal preference.
• Room Temperature Serving: Let bars sit 2-3 minutes before serving to soften slightly, enhancing texture and flavor release.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 15
• Calories: 322
• Sugar: 24 g
• Sodium: 100 mg
• Fat: 19 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 12 mg