Cherry Mash Bars are a delightful blend of sweet cherry filling and rich chocolate, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This homemade version of the nostalgic candy bar brings a little bit of joy to every bite, whether youโre serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as a treat for yourself.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Nostalgic Flavor:ย These bars capture the classic cherry and chocolate combination that has delighted generations.
- Easy to Make:ย With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of any skill level.
- Perfect for Any Occasion:ย Whether itโs a potluck, holiday gathering, or just an indulgent weekend treat, these bars fit right in.
- Customizable:ย You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cherry-flavored candy or marshmallow creme
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Powdered sugar
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
- Chocolate chips
- Peanut butter
- Chopped peanuts
Directions
- Prepare the Cherry Layer:
- Combine cherry-flavored candy, condensed milk, and butter in a saucepan. Melt over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in powdered sugar and vanilla. Pour into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish.
- Make the Chocolate Layer:
- Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the cherry layer, spreading evenly. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for added crunch.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the bars until set, about 2 hours. Slice into squares and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings:ย Makes approximately 16 bars (depending on slice size).
- Prep Time:ย 15 minutes
- Cook Time:ย 5 minutes
- Chill Time:ย 2 hours
Variations
- Nut-Free Version:ย Skip the chopped peanuts or replace them with a nut-free crunchy topping like crushed pretzels.
- Dark Chocolate Twist:ย Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.
- Cherry Chunk Delight:ย Fold chopped maraschino cherries into the cherry layer for added texture.
- Gluten-Free:ย Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, especially the chocolate chips and peanut butter.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage:ย Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Freezing:ย Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheating:ย These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isnโt necessary.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry-flavored candy?
Fresh cherries would change the texture and flavor significantly. This recipe is designed for the classic candy flavor.
2. What can I substitute for peanut butter?
You can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or leave it out for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate chips, plant-based butter, and condensed coconut milk.
4. How long do these bars take to set?
The bars need at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to set properly.
5. Can I use white chocolate instead of regular chocolate?
Absolutely! White chocolate can give these bars a creamy, sweeter twist.
6. Are these bars gluten-free?
They can be if you use gluten-free chocolate chips and verify other ingredients.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased quantity.
8. Can I omit the peanuts?
Yes, the bars will still be delicious without them, or you can substitute another topping.
9. How should I cut the bars neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for smooth edges.
10. Can I add other flavors to the cherry layer?
You can experiment with almond or orange extract for a unique flavor twist.
Conclusion
Cherry Mash Bars are a crowd-pleasing treat thatโs easy to make and packed with nostalgic charm. With their perfect combination of sweet cherries and rich chocolate, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Give this recipe a try and bring a little sweetness to your next gathering!
Print
Cherry Mash Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Mash Bars are a delightful homemade treat inspired by the classic Cherry Mash candy. They feature a sweet cherry-flavored layer topped with a rich chocolate-peanut butter mixture, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Cherry Layer:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 12 large marshmallows
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 6 ounces cherry chips (or substitute with 6 ounces white almond bark, 1 teaspoon cherry extract, and red food coloring to achieve desired color)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (omit if using cherry extract)
Chocolate-Peanut Layer:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup salted peanuts, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:ย Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the foil with cooking spray.
- Make the Cherry Layer:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, salt, marshmallows, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Once boiling, continue to cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cherry chips (or prepared substitute) and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until smooth.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool and set completely.
- Prepare the Chocolate-Peanut Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave on high for 45 seconds, then stir until the mixture is smooth. If necessary, microwave in additional 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and combined.
- Fold in the chopped salted peanuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Once the cherry layer has set, pour the chocolate-peanut mixture over it, spreading evenly to cover the cherry layer completely.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are fully set.
- Serve:
- Using the foil overhang, lift the set bars from the pan and place them on a cutting board.
- Cut into squares or rectangles of desired size using a sharp knife.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- If cherry chips are unavailable, you can substitute with 6 ounces of white almond bark, 1 teaspoon of cherry extract, and red food coloring to achieve the desired color.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a bottom chocolate layer. To do this, divide the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and chopped peanuts in half. Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips with 1/3 cup of peanut butter, stir in half of the chopped peanuts, and spread this mixture in the prepared pan before adding the cherry layer. Then, proceed with the remaining steps as above.
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