Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars
Highlighted under: Sweet Treats
Delight in the rich flavors of chocolate and cherry with these decadent Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars.
These Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Indulge in their creamy texture and enjoy their satisfying crunch with every bite!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- The irresistible combination of chocolate and cherry flavors
- A chewy texture that satisfies your sweet tooth
- Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a midday treat
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
Chocolate and cherry are a match made in dessert heaven. The rich, velvety taste of dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the tartness of cherries, creating a flavor profile that is both indulgent and refreshing. Each bite of these Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars brings a delightful contrast that awakens the taste buds, making them an unforgettable treat for chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike.
Using fresh or frozen cherries allows for versatility in this recipe. Fresh cherries provide a juicy burst of flavor, while frozen cherries offer convenience and can be used year-round. Whichever you choose, the result is a mouthwatering dessert that showcases the best of both ingredients.
The Ideal Treat for Any Occasion
These Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars are perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday celebration, or just a casual get-together with friends, they are sure to impress. Their beautiful marbled appearance, enhanced by the dark chocolate drizzle and cherry garnish, makes them a visually stunning dessert that is just as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Moreover, they are easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. This makes them an excellent choice for novice bakers or those pressed for time. Simply whip them up, let them cool, and you have a gourmet dessert ready to serve.
Customizing Your Bliss Bars
One of the best things about these bars is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, to suit your personal taste. You can also add nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for an extra crunch, or even a splash of almond extract for a hint of nuttiness.
If you prefer a more decadent treat, consider adding a layer of cream cheese frosting or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. These additions can elevate your dessert experience, making each serving even more indulgent.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped cherries (fresh or frozen)
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)
- Chopped cherries for garnish
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start for a smooth baking experience!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time and stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in Chocolate and Cherries
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped cherries.
Bake
Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool and Drizzle
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then drizzle with melted chocolate and garnish with additional cherries.
Slice and Serve
Cut into squares and enjoy your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars!
Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container for freshness!
Storage Tips
To keep your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you wish to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy their flavor and texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.
Nutritional Information
While these bars are a decadent treat, they also provide some nutritional benefits. Dark chocolate is known for its antioxidant properties and can contribute to heart health when consumed in moderation. Cherries are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a great addition to your dessert.
However, keep in mind that these bliss bars do contain sugar and butter that contribute to their richness. Enjoy them as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet, and don't hesitate to share them with friends and family for a guilt-free indulgence.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries work well! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the batter.
→ How should I store these bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I substitute the butter?
You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
→ What can I use instead of dark chocolate chips?
You can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a different flavor.
Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars
Delight in the rich flavors of chocolate and cherry with these decadent Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Sweet Treats
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 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped cherries (fresh or frozen)
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)
- Chopped cherries for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time and stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped cherries.
Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then drizzle with melted chocolate and garnish with additional cherries.
Cut into squares and enjoy your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g