Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Introduction to Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

As a busy mom, I know the struggle of wanting to bake something sweet, yet not having hours to spend in the kitchen. That’s why I absolutely adore these Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars! They’re quick and easy to whip up, perfect for those moments when you want to impress your family or surprise friends with a delightful treat. The marriage of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a luscious flavor that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are not just a treat; they’re a blessing for busy lives!

They are incredibly easy to make, giving you precious time back without sacrificing flavor.

With a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, they hit all the right notes.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert for a family gathering or a late-night snack, these bars have you covered!

Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Gathering the ingredients for these Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars is a breeze, and you probably have most of them in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Margarine: At room temperature, it provides that rich, buttery flavor essential for shortbread.
• SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend: A great low-calorie alternative that keeps things sweet without the sugar rush.
• Pure vanilla extract: It adds a warm, inviting flavor that complements the chocolate and cherries beautifully.
• Almond extract: Just a hint brings out nuttiness in these bars, making each bite more sumptuous.
• All-purpose flour: This is the base of your bars, helping to create that delightful texture.
• Cornstarch: It lightens up the flour and makes the shortbread bars even softer.
• Salt: A pinch elevates the sweetness, balancing the flavors perfectly.
• Dark chocolate chips: These little morsels provide rich chocolatey goodness that pairs beautifully with cherries.
• Maraschino cherries: These juicy nuggets offer both a pop of color and a delightful tang, adding fun to each bar.

While I love using margarine for its flavor, feel free to swap it out for butter if that’s what you prefer. For exact measurements, you can find the details at the bottom of the article, where they are available for printing.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F. This crucial step ensures your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars bake evenly. An oven that isn’t hot enough can lead to undercooked centers, while one that’s too hot can overcook the edges. A little patience here goes a long way!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Line a 9 x 13 casserole dish with parchment paper for easy removal. If you decide to skip the parchment, greasing isn’t necessary, thanks to the margarine. Just ensure your dish is clean and dry, and you’re all set!

Step 3: Creaming the Margarine and Sweetener

In a large bowl, combine the margarine and SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend. Beat them together for about 2 minutes. You’re aiming for a light, fluffy texture that should almost double in size. Creaming is vital; it incorporates air into the mixture, making your bars soft and tender.

Step 4: Adding the Extracts

Next, stir in your pure vanilla and almond extracts. These extracts introduce a delightful flavor depth. The vanilla brings warmth, while the almond gives the bars a lovely nutty richness. Together, they create a symphony of flavors in each bite!

Step 5: Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. This step is essential as it ensures everything is evenly distributed. Whisking also helps to aerate the flour, which is key for achieving that perfect shortbread texture!

Step 6: Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients

With your mixer on low, gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. Use a spatula to scrape down the bowl’s sides as you mix. This helps prevent lumps, allowing for a beautifully smooth batter that bakes evenly. Don’t rush—take your time to blend well!

Step 7: Incorporating Chocolate Chips

Now, it’s time to fold in the dark chocolate chips. These bits of chocolate are the stars of your bars, adding rich flavor and a delightful chewy texture. Just be gentle while folding them in to keep the mixture light and airy.

Step 8: Adding Maraschino Cherries

Chop your drained maraschino cherries and gently squeeze out some juice. This helps reduce excess moisture, preventing your batter from becoming too wet. Now, carefully fold the cherries into the mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without breaking them down too much.

Step 9: Spread and Bake

Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly in your prepared dish. Make sure to smooth out any lumps for an even bake. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean from the center. This bit is crucial for the perfect texture!

Step 10: Cooling and Cutting

After baking, allow the bars to cool in the dish for a bit before moving them to the refrigerator. Chilling them for about an hour helps set the bars, making cutting cleaner and easier. Clean edges make all the difference in presentation!

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature margarine for better creaming and texture.
• Don’t rush the mixing process. Take your time to incorporate the dry and wet ingredients thoroughly.
• Make sure to drain your maraschino cherries well to avoid excess moisture.
• Cut the bars only after they’ve cooled and set in the refrigerator for cleaner edges.
• Enjoy these bars at room temperature for the best flavor experience!

Equipment Needed

• 9 x 13 casserole dish (a glass or metal pan works well)
• Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
• Electric mixer (a whisk can also be used for mixing manually)
• Spatula (for spreading the batter and scraping the bowl)
• Whisk (to combine dry ingredients smoothly)

Variations on Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

• Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Fruit Fusion: Swap out maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or chopped strawberries for a different twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
• Chocolate Swap: Replace dark chocolate chips with white chocolate or milk chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor profile.
• Minty Fresh: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla for a delightful minty version.

Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

• Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Serve alongside fresh berries for a colorful, refreshing touch.
• Complement with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish when serving at gatherings.

FAQs about Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Absolutely! While maraschino cherries provide a distinct sweet and tart flavor, fresh cherries can be a delicious alternative. Be sure to pit and chop them, and remember to reduce their moisture slightly. This helps maintain the ideal texture of your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars.

How should I store these bars?

After making your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze these shortbread bars?

You can certainly freeze your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature for a delicious treat anytime!

Why do you prefer margarine over butter in this recipe?

I find that margarine offers a more consistently soft texture in these Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars. It helps maintain that classic shortbread goodness without making the bars too dense. However, if you’re a butter lover, feel free to swap it out!

Can I add other mix-ins?

Of course! These bars are incredibly versatile. Besides chocolate chips and maraschino cherries, consider adding nuts, dried fruits, or even a swirl of caramel for extra excitement. Personalizing your recipe makes it all the more fun!

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about baking, especially when it comes to Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars. The sweetness of chocolate paired with the bright burst of cherries creates a delightful treat that evokes warm memories of family gatherings. Each bite offers a taste of joy, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones. I love how these bars make even the busiest days feel special. So whether you’re celebrating or just indulging, these sweet gems will surely bring smiles to your table. Go ahead, bake a batch, and experience the happiness they deliver!

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