Name: Irresistible Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (Use the scoop and level method for accurate measurement.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Feel free to reduce by 1/4 cup if you prefer a less sweet treat.); 1/4 teaspoon salt (Enhances flavor.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1/2 cup cocoa powder (Delivers rich chocolate flavor.); 1/2 cup butter (Can be substituted with margarine or a non-dairy option.); 1/4 cup chocolate chips (Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate.); 1 cup chocolate chips (Provides flavor and extra texture.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Always opt for pure vanilla.); 2 large eggs (Should be at room temperature.); 1 cup maraschino cherries (Drain and pat dry, could substitute with dried cherries.); 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (Adds binding and sweetness.)

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At a recent family gathering, I overheard a delightful debate about the best dessert to accompany our coffee. There were cries for cheesecake, and raves for fruit tarts, but my heart raced when I thought about my secret weapon: Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars. These simple yet impressive bars take mere minutes to prepare and serve as a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. With their fudgy chocolate base layered with tangy maraschino cherries and a luscious chocolate topping, they’re not only a treat for the taste buds but can also be made ahead of time for busy schedules. If you’re ready to elevate your dessert game and bring joy to your kitchen, keep scrolling for the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why are Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars a must-try?

Irresistible flavors: The rich chocolate mingles wonderfully with the tangy cherries, creating a mouthwatering combination you won’t forget.

Easy to prepare: Just mix, layer, and bake! This hassle-free recipe is perfect even for novice bakers.

Crowd-pleaser: Serve these bars at your next gathering, and watch them disappear as guests rave about their deliciousness.

Make-ahead convenience: Bake them in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while saving you time on the big day!

Versatile options: Want a twist? Substitute the maraschino cherries or try a gluten-free flour blend for a personalized touch.

You can truly make these bars your own, ensuring they cater to everyone’s taste buds. Enjoy making these Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars today!

Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars Ingredients

For the Chocolate Base

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; use the scoop and level method for accurate measurement.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to reduce by 1/4 cup if you prefer a less sweet treat.
Salt – Enhances flavor; it’s crucial for balancing the overall sweetness.
Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure a light texture.
Cocoa powder – Delivers rich chocolate flavor; it gives depth and a luscious richness to the base.
Butter – Adds moisture and richness; can be substituted with margarine or a non-dairy option if needed.

For the Topping

Chocolate chips (1/4 cup + 1 cup) – Provides flavor and extra texture; use semi-sweet or dark chocolate for different flavor profiles.
Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; always opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
Eggs – Act as a binding agent; ensuring they’re at room temperature helps with easy incorporation.
Maraschino cherries – Bring juicy tanginess; consider subbing with dried cherries soaked in warm water for a delightful variation.
Sweetened condensed milk – Adds binding and sweetness; do not replace with evaporated milk for the best results.

These Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars are not just delicious; they’re an exciting, adaptable dessert waiting for you to make them your own!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars

Step 1: Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with a bit of butter or cooking spray. This step ensures your Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars come out easily and maintain their delicious shape.

Step 2: Make Chocolate Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 cup of cocoa powder. In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter with 1/4 cup of chocolate chips over low heat until smooth. Remove from heat, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and add 2 large room temperature eggs. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until well combined.

Step 3: Spread Base
Once your batter is mixed, pour it into the prepared pan. Using a spatula, press the chocolate mixture evenly across the bottom of the pan. Take your time to ensure it’s level, which will help your Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars bake evenly. Bake this chocolate base in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until it’s set but still slightly soft in the center.

Step 4: Add Cherry Layer
While the chocolate base bakes, drain and pat dry 1 cup of maraschino cherries. Cut each cherry in half and set them aside. Once the base is ready, remove it from the oven and scatter the halved cherries evenly over the hot chocolate layer. The cherries will infuse a sweet tanginess that complements the rich chocolate wonderfully.

Step 5: Create Topping
Sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips over the cherries before drizzling a full can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk evenly across the entire surface. The chocolate chips will melt and blend with the cherries, creating a luscious layer atop your Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars. Make sure every cherry is covered so that every bite is filled with flavor.

Step 6: Bake
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges, which should puff up slightly and start to pull away from the sides of the pan, while the center will remain a bit jiggly. This is the perfect time to take out your bars, as they will continue firming up as they cool.

Step 7: Cool Completely
After baking, remove your pan from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool completely in the pan, which takes about 30 minutes. Once cool, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting. Chilling them will make it easier to slice cleanly and enhance the flavors of your Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars.

Storage Tips for Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars

Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This is great for quick snacking anytime!

Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Chilling enhances the flavors and keeps them fresh longer, ideal for those who enjoy them cold.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze your Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: Thaw frozen bars at room temperature before serving. This returns them to their gooey, delicious state, perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars Variations

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars with these delightful twists, making them your own!

Fresh Cherries: Use pitted fresh cherries tossed in sugar for a vibrant, seasonal burst of flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive guests.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the chocolate base for a crunchy, satisfying texture.
Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense chocolate experience.
Coconut Infusion: Stir in shredded coconut to the chocolate base, adding a tropical twist that pairs nicely with cherries.
Spiced Variation: Mix in a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the chocolate base for a cozy flavor profile, perfect for fall gatherings.
Adult Version: Soak your cherries in a splash of brandy or rum for an exciting adult version that offers a sophisticated touch.
White Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted white chocolate on top for a beautiful contrast and extra sweetness.

With these creative variations, your Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars will be a unique highlight at every gathering! Need more ideas on pairing desserts? Check out our section on what to serve with Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars for scrumptious inspiration.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can easily prepare the chocolate base and layer it with cherries up to 24 hours before baking; simply keep the prepared pan covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Alternatively, bake the bars in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature. Just remember to refrigerate for 2 hours after baking for easier slicing. When you’re ready to serve, you can warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes, ensuring a delightful, gooey experience that will impress everyone!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars

Drain Cherries Well: Ensure maraschino cherries are thoroughly drained to prevent sogginess, or your bars could turn out too wet.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Refrigerate if necessary for neat, clean cuts.
Proper Sweetened Condensed Milk: Only use sweetened condensed milk for the right texture; substitutions may not yield the desired creaminess in your bars.
Reduce Sugar Wisely: If aiming for less sweetness, reduce the sugar in the base, but balance it carefully to maintain texture in your Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars.
Experiment with Flavors: Consider playing with different chocolate varieties or soaking cherries in liquor for an adult twist that elevates the dessert experience.

What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars

These delightful bars are not just a dessert; they can create the perfect sweet experience when paired thoughtfully.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, sweet flavor of vanilla ice cream balances the rich and tangy notes of the bars, creating a luscious mouthful.
Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the dense texture of the magic bars while enhancing their sweetness.
Coffee or Espresso: The deep, robust flavors of coffee contrast beautifully with the sugary cherry-chocolate combo, making it an ideal pairing for a comforting afternoon break.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, an extra drizzle of warm chocolate sauce takes these bars over the top for a decadent indulgence.
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the richness of the bars.
Mint Tea: The cool, refreshing essence of mint tea offers a lovely herbal note that complements the flavors without overpowering them.
Nutty Biscotti: The crunchy texture of nutty biscotti adds a satisfying contrast, perfect for dunking alongside your cherry magic bars.
Sweet Moscato Wine: With its light effervescence and floral notes, Moscato pairs exquisitely with the sweet and tart elements of the bars.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Elevate your dessert table by serving chocolate-covered strawberries for a fun and festive touch alongside your Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars?
Absolutely! While maraschino cherries provide a sweet tanginess, you can also use pitted fresh cherries tossed in sugar for a delightful alternative. If fresh cherries aren’t available, dried cherries soaked in warm water for 10 minutes work wonderfully too!

How should I store my Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars?
For best results, store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate for up to 1 week! Chilling them enhances their flavors, making them even more enjoyable.

Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 3 months! Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the bars at room temperature until soft and gooey again!

What should I do if my bars are too soggy?
Soggy bars are often due to not properly draining the cherries. To avoid this issue, make sure to thoroughly drain and pat dry the maraschino cherries before adding them to your batter. If they’re already prepared and still soggy, refrigerate the bars for a couple of hours to help them set better.

Are Chocolate Covered Cherry Magic Bars suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! You can easily make these bars gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This will maintain the deliciousness while catering to dietary needs. The more, the merrier!

Can I modify the sweetness in the recipe?
Very! If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can reduce the granulated sugar in the chocolate base by up to 1/4 cup. Just be cautious not to alter the texture too much, and consider testing your batter as you go!