As I rummaged through my pantry last weekend, I stumbled upon a jar of maraschino cherries and a bag of dark chocolate chips that whispered, “Bake us!” That’s how these Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars were born—a delightful fusion of buttery goodness and sweet-tart cherries, perfect for elevating any dessert table. Not only are these bars a crowd-pleaser packed with vibrant flavors, but they also boast less added sugar, making them a guilt-free indulgence for your holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With minimal prep time, you’ll have a treat that everyone will love without compromising on taste. Curious to learn how to whip up these mouthwatering bars? Keep scrolling for the easy recipe!
Why Are These Bars a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries creates a delightful explosion of taste in every bite.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Made with less added sugar, you can savor these delicious bars without the guilt, making them perfect for any occasion!
Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these bars ready in no time.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee or tea.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving family or guests, these bars are sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why not try pairing them with a slice of Cranberry Crumble Bars for an incredible dessert spread?
Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars Ingredients
For the Base
- Margarine – Provides moisture and richness, but feel free to use butter for a more traditional taste.
- SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend – Sweetens the bars while cutting down on added sugar. Substitute with 3/4 cup regular granulated sugar if preferred.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm depth of flavor that enhances the entire treat.
- Almond Extract – Contributes a subtle nutty note that beautifully complements the cherries.
For the Dry Mix
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the essential structure of the bars, ensuring they hold together.
- Cornstarch – Lightens the texture, contributing to a wonderfully tender crumb.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and amplifies the overall flavor profile.
For the Mix-Ins
- Dark Chocolate Chips – Infuses richness and indulgence, creating a decadent treat.
- Chopped Maraschino Cherries – Adds moist sweetness and vibrant color; remember to drain the juices for the best results!
These delectable Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are a treat you’ll want to make time and time again!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper. This will help ensure an easy release of the Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars once they are baked.
Step 2: Cream the Margarine and Sweetener
In a large mixing bowl, combine the margarine and SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend. Using an electric mixer, cream these together on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. This step is crucial for creating a tender shortbread texture.
Step 3: Add Extracts
Next, beat in the pure vanilla extract and almond extract into the creamed mixture. Continue mixing for another minute until everything is well incorporated. The vanilla and almond extracts will enhance the flavors in your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars, adding that delicious aromatic quality.
Step 4: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt until combined. This dry mixture is key for providing structure to your bars. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed, just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix.
Step 5: Fold in the Chips and Cherries
Using a spatula, gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and the drained, chopped maraschino cherries. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for uniform flavor in each bite. The chocolate and cherries will add richness and vibrant color to your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars.
Step 6: Spread the Mixture
Evenly spread the cookie mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to flatten the top. Make sure to push the mixture into the corners so that the bars bake evenly. You’ll want to achieve a smooth, even layer for the perfect texture once baked.
Step 7: Bake the Bars
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they are ready when the edges turn a lovely golden brown, while the center remains slightly soft. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 8: Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for one hour. Chilling will allow them to set firmly, making slicing them into squares much easier.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
After chilling, take the bars out of the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, cut them into 48 squares for perfect bite-sized treats. Allow them to reach room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are sure to be a hit!
What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars
These delightful dessert bars invite you to create a memorable meal experience, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
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Café-style Coffee: A rich, steaming cup of coffee enhances the dessert’s flavors and provides a perfect balance to the sweetness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the chewy texture of the bars, making each bite indulgent.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing burst of flavor and bright color, complementing the sweetness of the cherries.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A warm drizzle of melted chocolate over the bars elevates them to a lavish treat, perfect for chocolate lovers.
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Herbal Tea: Pair these sweet bars with a calming herbal tea for a cozy feel. The light flavors will harmonize beautifully with the cherry notes.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of salty-sweet caramel sauce introduces a savory twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dessert.
Dive into these warm bars with a delightful pairing that will leave your loved ones asking for more!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time when planning for gatherings! You can mix the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. If you prefer, bake the bars ahead of time and let them cool completely before chilling in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—this helps them set perfectly for easy slicing. When ready to serve, simply allow them to come to room temperature for the best flavor. These make-ahead tips will ensure your bars are just as delicious and crowd-pleasing, all while freeing you up for more precious moments with family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars
Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure they are well-sealed to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to one week in a covered container. This helps preserve their texture and flavor, keeping them delicious!
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw bars in the fridge overnight and allow them to reach room temperature before serving for the best taste experience.
Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing these delightful bars with your own unique twists and swaps!
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White Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate chips for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier version.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that enhances texture and flavor.
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Dried Cherries: Use dried cherries instead of maraschinos for a less sweet, yet equally fruity taste that packs a chewy punch.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities, while still achieving that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mix for a warm and cozy flavor, perfect for chilly days.
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Coconut Bliss: Introduce a sprinkle of shredded coconut into the mix for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate and cherries.
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Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty flair that pairs deliciously with chocolate.
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Spicy Heat: For adventurous palates, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring a surprising kick that beautifully contrasts with the sweet flavors.
And if you’re looking for more inspiration, consider serving these bars with a warm cup of Rich Coffee or alongside a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream for an indulgent dessert combo!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars
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Mixing Matters: Ensure you cream the margarine and SPLENDA® well to achieve a light texture; under-creaming can lead to dense bars.
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Chill for Precision: Chilling the bars before slicing not only improves texture but also makes cutting easier and prevents crumbling.
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Don’t Overbake: Watch closely while baking; overbaking will dry out your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars. Aim for golden edges with a soft center.
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Drain Juices: Be sure to drain your maraschino cherries well to prevent excess moisture, which could affect the bar’s consistency.
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Room Temperature Delight: Always let the bars come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture; cold bars lose their delicious sweetness.
Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of maraschino cherries should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using high-quality maraschino cherries. Look for those without artificial colors in the jar. Ensure they are well-drained before mixing into the batter, as excess moisture can affect the final texture of your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars.
How long can I store the bars, and what’s the best method?
These scrumptious bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For optimal freshness, make sure they’re sealed well. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them! They’ll last up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag to keep them from freezer burn.
Can I freeze these shortbread bars? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars, first, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars into a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date; they’ll be delicious for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
What should I do if my dough feels too crumbly?
If you notice that your dough is crumbly, it may need a bit more moisture. Try adding a teaspoon of milk or water gradually until the mixture holds together better. Mix carefully to avoid overworking the dough. This will ensure your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars have that perfect tender texture.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, indeed! The recipe contains margarine, which may include soy; if allergies are a concern, opt for soy-free margarine or use butter instead. Additionally, if you or your guests have nut allergies, be cautious with almond extract, or you can omit it entirely. Always double-check labels on all ingredients to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
Delicious Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the margarine and sweetener using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until fluffy.
- Beat in pure vanilla extract and almond extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips and drained chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring a smooth layer.
- Bake for approximately 30 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly soft.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for one hour.
- Slice into 48 squares after chilling and allow to reach room temperature before serving.
