If you’re in search of a dessert that’s beautifully decadent yet easy to whip up, then these Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are it! Each square bursts with the irresistible combination of rich dark chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries, all nestled in a buttery shortbread that simply melts in your mouth. You’ll want to keep this recipe close, not just for special occasions but for whenever you need a little sweet indulgence!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) margarine, at room temperature (see notes for substitutions)
- 1/2 cup SPLENDA Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 11.5 ounces dark chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries, juices drained
How to Make Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch casserole dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream the margarine and sweetener: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the margarine and SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend for about 2 minutes, until smooth.
- Add the extracts: Beat in the vanilla and almond extracts, giving the mixture a lovely aromatic base.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed margarine and sweetener, blending on low speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well-mixed.
- Mix in chocolate chips: Slowly fold in the dark chocolate chips to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.
- Prepare the cherries: Chop the maraschino cherries and gently press them to drain any excess juice, then carefully fold them into the batter.
- Spread the dough in the pan: Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top edges are a light golden brown.
- Cool and set: Let the dish cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for about an hour to allow the bars to set, making them easier to slice.
- Cut and serve: Remove from the pan and cut into 48 small squares. Let them come to room temperature before serving—this brings out their best flavor and texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature margarine: This helps to blend the ingredients smoothly for a cohesive, tender shortbread dough.
- Drain cherries well: Excess liquid from the cherries can cause the bars to be overly moist. Gently press the cherries after chopping to release any extra juice.
- Don’t skip chilling: Allowing the bars to chill in the fridge before cutting makes for cleaner cuts and more defined squares.
Substitutions and Variations
- Butter instead of margarine: You can substitute butter for margarine, but margarine lends a slightly crisper texture and lets the shortbread flavor shine.
- Swap sweeteners: If you prefer using regular granulated sugar, feel free to replace the SPLENDA® blend.
- Try different chocolate: Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips would be delicious here if you prefer a milder chocolate flavor.
- Add some nuts: Chopped almonds or walnuts add a lovely crunch and complement the almond extract.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that fresh cherries will release more liquid. If using fresh, consider chopping and patting them dry to reduce moisture.
Q: Why is it important to let these bars come to room temperature before eating?
A: When served cold, the texture and flavors of shortbread can taste muted. Letting them come to room temperature enhances their natural buttery flavor.
Q: Can I freeze these shortbread bars?
A: Absolutely! Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, separated by parchment paper. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw to room temperature before serving.
Storage Instructions
These shortbread bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze as mentioned above.
More Chocolate Recipes to Try
If you love the cherry and chocolate combination, check out these other recipes:
- Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls – Perfect for Any Sweet Tooth
Enjoy these delightful Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars anytime you’re in the mood for a sweet treat that’s anything but ordinary. They’re perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a simple indulgence at home. Enjoy!
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Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 48 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are buttery, soft, and filled with bursts of dark chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries. Perfect for holiday gatherings or an anytime treat, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) margarine, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 11.5 ounces dark chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries, juices drained
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch casserole dish with parchment paper if desired.
- In a large bowl, cream margarine and SPLENDA® blend for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Add vanilla and almond extracts and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, then gently fold in cherries.
- Spread dough evenly in the prepared dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Cool, then refrigerate for 1 hour to set before cutting into squares.
- Allow bars to come to room temperature before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute butter for margarine, but margarine brings out the shortbread’s distinct flavor and texture.
- For a cleaner cut, chill the bars before slicing.
- These bars taste best at room temperature, as chilling can slightly dull their flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: Approximately 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg