If you love a rich, buttery shortbread combined with the sweetness of cherries and the indulgence of dark chocolate, these Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are for you! These dessert bars are elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly light at just 120 calories per serving, thanks to SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or as a simple treat, they’re easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: Buttery shortbread with the sweetness of cherries and the boldness of dark chocolate.
- Healthier Option: Sweetened with SPLENDA®, making it a lighter alternative to traditional dessert bars.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored for days.
- Great for Sharing: Makes 48 servings, perfect for parties and gatherings.
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
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9 x 13-inch casserole dish
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with parchment paper for easy removal, or leave ungreased if not using parchment.
Step 2: Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature margarine and SPLENDA® Naturals for 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and almond extract, and beat until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed and continue mixing until the dough is fully combined.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Prepare the Cherries
Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. Squeeze out excess juice to prevent the dough from becoming too wet. Carefully fold the cherries into the dough.
Step 7: Spread and Bake
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish using a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Chill
Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, refrigerate for an hour to help them set.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Lift the parchment paper from the dish (if used) and place it on a cutting board. Cut the bars into 48 small squares. Serve and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: These bars are perfect as a sweet snack or dessert. Garnish with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: These bars freeze well! Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations
- White Chocolate Twist: Substitute dark chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped almonds or pecans for a nutty crunch.
- Tropical Flair: Swap maraschino cherries for dried pineapple or shredded coconut.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute to make these bars gluten-free.
Helpful Notes and Tips from Chefs
- Room Temperature Margarine: Ensure margarine is softened for easier creaming.
- Proper Cherry Prep: Thoroughly drain and pat cherries dry to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
- Cooling Time: Don’t skip the refrigeration step; it ensures clean cuts and helps the bars hold their shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, unsalted butter works well and adds a slightly richer flavor.
What can I substitute for SPLENDA® Naturals?
You can use regular sugar, but note that it will increase the calorie count.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free margarine and chocolate chips to make this recipe dairy-free.
Can I halve the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a smaller baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.
What’s the best way to cut the bars evenly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.
These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are a perfect combination of buttery shortbread, sweet cherries, and rich chocolate. Whether for holidays, special occasions, or just a cozy afternoon treat, these bars are guaranteed to impress!
