Cherry Mash Bars Recipe

 Cherry Mash Bars Recipe

These Cherry Mash Bars are a deliciously indulgent dessert, combining the sweetness of maraschino cherries with a rich chocolate base and a creamy, peanut butter filling. The result is a chewy, fudgy bar that’s a perfect treat for any occasion. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:

For the Cherry Layer:

• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry juice (from the jar)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Layer:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9x9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the Cherry Layer:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped maraschino cherries, cherry juice, granulated sugar, melted butter, and beaten egg. Stir to combine.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
• Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the peanut butter layer.

3. Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer:

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
• Use a hand mixer or a spoon to blend everything together until smooth and creamy.
• Once the cherry layer has cooled slightly, spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the top, pressing it gently to ensure it sticks.

4. Make the Chocolate Layer:

• In a small saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth and fully combined.
• Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream until the mixture is glossy and smooth.
• Pour the chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.

5. Chill and Set:

• Place the bars in the refrigerator to set for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate layer is firm and the bars are fully set.

6. Cut & Serve:

• Once the bars are chilled and set, remove them from the fridge and cut them into squares.
• Serve and enjoy these rich, chewy, and decadent Cherry Mash Bars!

Tips:

• You can use fresh cherries or frozen cherries if maraschino cherries are not available, though maraschino cherries give that classic flavor.
• For a fun twist, sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top of the peanut butter layer before adding the chocolate layer.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

These Cherry Mash Bars are a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and rich flavors, sure to impress at any gathering or satisfy your sweet tooth!