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Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars to Satisfy Cravings

Delicious Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars offer a guilt-free indulgence, perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 48 squares
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bars
  • 1 cup Margarine May substitute with butter for a creamier taste.
  • 1 cup SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend Use half the amount compared to regular sugar.
  • 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Almond Extract Adds a nutty flavor.
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Forms the base of bars.
  • 1 cup Cornstarch Lightens texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips Provides rich chocolate flavor.
  • 1 cup Chopped Maraschino Cherries Drain juices to prevent excess liquid.

Equipment

  • Electric Mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • spatula
  • 9x13 casserole dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9x13 casserole dish by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream margarine and SPLENDA® Naturals on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
  3. Mix in pure vanilla and almond extract, beating for another 30 seconds until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt, then slowly add to creamed mixture until just combined.
  5. Fold in chocolate chips and maraschino cherries gently to maintain the integrity of the cherries.
  6. Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top.
  7. Bake for about 30 minutes until edges turn golden brown; the center may be soft but will set as it cools.
  8. Let the bars cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for about an hour.
  9. Once chilled, cut into 48 squares and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 80mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 3gIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow bars to reach room temperature before enjoying for best flavor. Drain maraschino cherries well to prevent excess moisture.

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