why make this recipe
This Cherry Mash Bars recipe is quick and simple. It needs few ingredients and no baking. You get sweet cherry candy bars with a soft center and a chocolate top. They make a nice treat for holidays, parties, or a quick dessert.
introduction
These bars mix cooked sugar and butter with powdered sugar, cherries, and nuts, then finish with melted chocolate. If you like bar desserts, you may also enjoy chocolate chip cheesecake bars as another easy option.
how to make Cherry Mash Bars
Follow these clear steps to make the bars.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 4 ounces milk chocolate, melted
Directions :
- In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, butter, and milk. Bring to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
- Stir in powdered sugar, cherries, vanilla, and nuts (if using) until well combined.
- Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour melted chocolate over the top and spread evenly.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
how to serve Cherry Mash Bars
Cut the cooled bars into squares. Serve at room temperature. They pair well with coffee or milk. For parties, place them on a platter with a doily or cupcake liners.
how to store Cherry Mash Bars
Store bars in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 1 week. Let chilled bars sit at room temperature a few minutes before serving.
tips to make Cherry Mash Bars
- Drain cherries well so the bars are not too wet.
- Stir constantly while boiling to prevent burning.
- Press the mixture evenly in the pan for clean squares.
- Let the chocolate set fully before cutting to keep neat edges.
variation (if any)
- Use dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate instead of milk chocolate.
- Replace maraschino cherries with dried cherries if you want less syrup.
- Skip the nuts for a nut-free version or swap in chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pan size?
A: You can use a smaller pan for thicker bars, but cook time or cooling time stays the same.
Q: Do I need to chill the bars?
A: No, room temperature is fine. Chilling helps the chocolate set faster.
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes. Make them a day ahead and store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to one week.
Q: Are these bars safe for kids?
A: Yes, the recipe is child-friendly. Watch any small children when using hot sugar or hot chocolate.
Cherry Mash Bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quick and simple sweet cherry candy bars with a soft center and chocolate top, perfect for holidays and parties.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 4 ounces milk chocolate, melted
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, butter, and milk. Bring to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
- Stir in powdered sugar, cherries, vanilla, and nuts (if using) until well combined.
- Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour melted chocolate over the top and spread evenly.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
Drain cherries well to avoid excess moisture. Stir constantly while boiling to prevent burning. Allow chocolate to set fully before cutting for neat edges.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
