Decadent Chocolate Cherry Bars: A Rich and Fruity Indulgence

Decadent Chocolate Cherry Bars: A Rich and Fruity Indulgence

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of cherries, these Decadent Chocolate Cherry Bars are the perfect treat. With layers of creamy filling, dense chocolate, and a hint of cherry flavor, these bars are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped cherries (fresh or dried)
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon cherry extract
1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted, for drizzling

Instructions:

Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing well. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped cherries.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and cherry extract, mixing until well combined. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled brownies.
Add the Chocolate Drizzle: Melt the dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to set.
Cut and Serve: Once set, cut the bars into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the rich, chocolaty flavor with a burst of cherry goodness in every bite.

Tips:

For an extra cherry flavor, add a layer of cherry preserves between the brownie and cream cheese layers.
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

These Decadent Chocolate Cherry Bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home. The combination of chocolate and cherries makes this dessert irresistible and unforgettable.