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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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