Sweet & Nostalgic Cherry Mash Bars Recipe for Dessert Lovers

Sweet memories of childhood nostalgia dance through this incredible cherry mash bars creation that connects classic candy flavors with homemade magic.

Grandma’s secret recipes always spark excitement in my kitchen.

Unexpected combinations can turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Chocolate and cherry lovers unite around this delightful treat that brings pure joy to every bite.

Bold cherry flavors mingle perfectly with rich chocolate undertones.

Each bar promises a delicious journey through texture and taste.

Whip up these irresistible bars and watch smiles bloom across eager faces.

Why Cherry Mash Bars Taste So Good

• Burst with Cherry Sweetness: Experience a delightful explosion of maraschino cherry flavor that dances on your taste buds with every bite.
• No-Bake Dessert Miracle: Create a stunning treat without ever turning on the oven, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal effort.
• Texture Paradise: Enjoy the incredible contrast between the smooth, creamy cherry layer and the crunchy chocolate-peanut topping that provides an exciting mouthfeel.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Whip up these bars in under an hour of active preparation time, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings, potlucks, or spontaneous dessert cravings.

Cherry Mash Bars Ingredients Breakdown

• 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 soft consistency.
• Maraschino Cherries: Brings vibrant cherry flavor and bright red color to the bars.
• Cherry Juice: Enhances the cherry flavor and helps moisten the mixture.
• Almond Extract: Adds a subtle, nutty background flavor that complements the cherry.

• Chocolate Chips: Creates a rich, smooth chocolate layer for the bars.
• Peanut Butter: Adds creamy texture and nutty flavor to the chocolate topping.
• Chopped Peanuts: Provides crunch and additional nutty flavor to the bars.

• Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray: Helps prevent sticking and makes removing the bars easier.

Cherry Mash Bars Cooking Directions

Step 1: Create Dreamy Cherry Base

• Chopped maraschino cherries
• Cherry juice
• Almond extract

Blend until perfectly combined. The mixture should feel thick yet spreadable. Carefully spread this luscious cherry mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. Pop the dish into the freezer for about 30 minutes to set firmly.

Step 2: Craft Chocolate-Peanut Topping

• Chocolate chips
• Peanut butter

Zap in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval, until the mixture becomes wonderfully smooth and glossy. Fold in chopped peanuts for an extra crunch.

Step 3: Layer and Assemble

Retrieve the chilled cherry base from the freezer. Gently pour the molten chocolate-peanut mixture over the cherry layer. Use a spatula to spread evenly, creating a perfect blanket of chocolatey goodness.

Step 4: Chill and Solidify

Slide the assembled bars into the refrigerator. Let them rest and set for a minimum of 2 hours, allowing the layers to become perfectly united.

Step 5: Slice and Enjoy

Once the bars are completely firm, slice into delectable squares or bars. Serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing treat, or let them sit at room temperature for a softer texture.

Pro Tip: These bars are perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or when you need a quick sweet indulgence!

Helpful Tricks For Cherry Mash Bars

• Freeze for Firmness: Chill the cherry layer in the freezer for 30 minutes to create a solid base that prevents layers from mixing and ensures clean, crisp cutting.
• Microwave Melting Mastery: Use short 30-second intervals when melting chocolate and peanut butter to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, glossy texture.
• Customize Cherry Intensity: Adjust the amount of maraschino cherry juice to control the flavor strength and consistency of the cherry layer.
• Nut-Free Option: Swap chopped peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit entirely for those with nut allergies while maintaining the recipe's delicious crunch.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare these bars up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a convenient, make-ahead dessert.

Keep Cherry Mash Bars Fresh And Warm

• Refrigerate: Store the Cherry Mash Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their shape.
• Freeze: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. These delightful treats can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delicious flavor.
• Thaw: Remove frozen bars from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying. This gentle thawing preserves their creamy texture and rich taste.
• Reheat: While best served chilled, you can briefly microwave a bar for 5-10 seconds if you prefer a slightly softer chocolate topping. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chocolate to become grainy.

Snack Ideas With Cherry Mash Bars

• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Complement the rich cherry and chocolate flavors with a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, enhancing the dessert's sweet and nutty profile.
• Match with Creamy Coffee Drink: Serve alongside a smooth latte or cappuccino, whose warm, velvety texture balances the cool, sweet cherry chocolate bars perfectly.
• Enhance with Vanilla Bourbon Cocktail: Create a decadent experience by pairing the bars with a classic bourbon cocktail, amplifying the dessert's depth and complexity.
• Refresh with Sparkling Cherry Mocktail: Prepare a light, fizzy cherry mocktail with fresh cherry juice and soda water to cleanse the palate between bites of these indulgent bars.

Ways To Change Up Cherry Mash Bars

• Tropical Cherry Dream: Swap maraschino cherries with fresh mango chunks and add coconut flakes to the cherry layer for a tropical-inspired version with vibrant, exotic flavors.
• Nutty Chocolate Cherry Crunch: Replace peanuts with toasted almonds or pecans in the chocolate topping, creating a more complex nutty texture and deeper roasted undertones.
• Berry Blast Bars: Use mixed berry preserves instead of maraschino cherries, incorporating raspberries and strawberries for a tangy, colorful alternative that bursts with fruity richness.
• Dark Chocolate Decadence: Substitute milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate and add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an intense, sophisticated flavor profile that balances sweetness and depth.

Answers About Cherry Mash Bars

• What gives these Cherry Mash Bars their unique flavor?

The combination of maraschino cherries, almond extract, chocolate, and peanuts creates a delightful sweet-and-salty flavor profile that makes these bars incredibly addictive.

• Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These Cherry Mash Bars are perfect for making in advance. You can prepare them up to 3-4 days before serving and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy.

• Are these bars similar to a classic candy bar?

Yes! These bars are reminiscent of a homemade version of a classic cherry-chocolate candy, with a nostalgic flavor that combines the sweetness of cherries with rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts.

• Do I need any special equipment to make these bars?

Not at all! You’ll just need a mixing bowl, a 9×13-inch baking dish, a microwave-safe bowl, and basic kitchen tools like a spatula and measuring cups.

Cherry Mash Bars Recipe

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4.9 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: 16 1x

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Description

Chocolate-loving dessert enthusiasts will adore these cherry mash bars, a nostalgic treat blending sweet cherries and creamy chocolate. Homemade magic delivers a delightful confection perfect for satisfying midnight cravings when traditional desserts just won’t do.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 jar (10 oz / 285 g) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
• 2 cups (350 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup (250 g) creamy peanut butter

Cherry Layer Ingredients:

• 2 cups (200 g) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup (60 ml) maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

Topping Ingredients:

• 1 cup (120 g) chopped peanuts

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Instructions

1. Craft the luscious cherry foundation by whipping softened butter with powdered sugar until silky. Fold in finely chopped maraschino cherries, vibrant cherry juice, and a whisper of almond extract, creating a decadent, spreadable mixture.
2. Evenly distribute the cherry blend into a prepared baking dish, ensuring a smooth surface. Chill in the freezer for approximately half an hour, allowing the layer to solidify and develop a firm consistency.
3. Create the luxurious chocolate-peanut topping by gently melting chocolate chips and peanut butter in short microwave intervals, stirring between each to achieve a glossy, uniform texture. Incorporate roughly chopped peanuts for an added crunch.
4. Extract the chilled cherry layer from the freezer and generously cascade the molten chocolate-peanut mixture across the surface, using a spatula to distribute evenly and eliminate any potential air pockets.
5. Transfer the assembled dessert to the refrigerator, allowing it to set completely for a minimum of two hours. The cooling process will transform the bars into a delectable, firm treat.
6. Once fully set, slice into elegant squares or rectangular bars. Serve directly from the refrigerator or permit a brief rest at room temperature for optimal enjoyment.

Notes

• Swap maraschino cherries with fresh cherries for a more natural, less processed flavor profile.
• Use gluten-free powdered sugar to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Experiment with different nut butter options like almond or cashew butter for unique flavor variations.
• Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain optimal texture and freshness.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 23 g
• Sodium: 110 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg