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–+ servings
Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Delicious Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars offer a delightful blend of buttery goodness and sweet-tart cherries, making them a perfect guilt-free dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 48 squares
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 cup Margarine Can substitute with butter for traditional flavor.
  • 1 cup SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend Can substitute with 3/4 cup regular granulated sugar.
  • 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1 teaspoon Almond Extract
For the Dry Mix
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup Cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
For the Mix-Ins
  • 1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips
  • 1 cup Chopped Maraschino Cherries Drain the juices for best results.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Electric Mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • spatula
  • knife

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the margarine and sweetener using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until fluffy.
  3. Beat in pure vanilla extract and almond extract until well combined.
  4. 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.
  5. Fold in the dark chocolate chips and drained chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed.
  6. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring a smooth layer.
  7. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly soft.
  8. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for one hour.
  9. Slice into 48 squares after chilling and allow to reach room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 50mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 5gCalcium: 1mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure you cream the margarine and SPLENDA® well for a light texture. Chill before slicing for easier cutting. Don't overbake to maintain a soft center. Drain maraschino cherries well to avoid excess moisture. Let bars reach room temperature before serving for best flavor.

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