Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars

Name: Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup tart cherries, pitted and chopped; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips, melted; Fresh cherries for garnish

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

Indulge in these rich and decadent Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars that bring together the perfect balance of chocolate and tart cherries.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:42:29.786Z

These Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the sweet and tart notes of cherries. Ideal for gatherings or a special dessert, they are sure to impress your guests.

        Why You Will Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Chewy texture with a hint of crunch
Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Chocolate and cherries are a classic pairing, and these Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars showcase that relationship beautifully. The rich, velvety chocolate flavor serves as a perfect backdrop for the tartness of the cherries, creating a harmonious taste that will tantalize your taste buds. Each bite offers a delightful contrast, making them irresistible for chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike.

The combination of sweet and tart not only elevates the flavors but also adds a refreshing element to the bars. The cherries provide a burst of juiciness that complements the dense chocolate base, resulting in a dessert that feels indulgent yet balanced. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon treat or a dessert after dinner, these bars are sure to impress.

Texture That Delights

One of the standout features of these Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars is their delightful texture. The bars are chewy, offering a satisfying bite that is both comforting and indulgent. The addition of dark chocolate chips not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also introduces a slight crunch that contrasts with the soft, chewy base.

The chopped tart cherries contribute to this unique texture, providing little bursts of fruitiness that keep each bite interesting. This combination of chewiness and subtle crunch makes the bars a textural delight, ensuring that each piece is enjoyable down to the last crumb.

A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion

These Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make for an impressive dessert at gatherings, parties, or holiday celebrations. Their easy-to-slice format means you can serve them in bite-sized pieces, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Moreover, they are just as enjoyable when savored alone with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to indulge in after a long day or something special to share at a potluck, these bars fit the bill beautifully. Their rich flavor and appealing appearance will surely make them a favorite among guests.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup tart cherries, pitted and chopped
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

For the Topping

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
Fresh cherries for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Top

Allow the bars to cool completely before drizzling with melted chocolate and garnishing with fresh cherries.

Once cooled, cut into bars and serve.

Storing Your Bliss Bars

To ensure your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars maintain their deliciousness, proper storage is crucial. Once they are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to five days, making them a great make-ahead dessert option.

If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing the bars. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature, and they will taste just as fresh as the day they were made.

Customizing Your Bars

While the classic combination of chocolate and tart cherries is hard to beat, feel free to experiment with other ingredients to customize your bliss bars. You can swap out the tart cherries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries, or even add nuts for an extra crunch.

For those who prefer a sweeter profile, you might consider using milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate. Adjusting the sweetness level can make the bars more appealing to a broader audience, especially children. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences while still delivering a delightful treat.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bars, presentation can elevate the overall experience. Consider serving them warm, drizzled with additional melted chocolate for a decadent touch. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also take this dessert to the next level, creating a perfect contrast of temperatures and textures.

For a festive touch, garnish the bars with fresh cherry halves or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar. These small details not only make the bars look more appealing but also enhance the overall flavor profile. Your guests are sure to be impressed by both the taste and presentation of this delightful treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries; just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the mixture.

→ How should I store the bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I substitute the butter?

Yes, you can use coconut oil or margarine as a substitute for butter.

→ Are these bars gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.