Description
These Cherry Mash Bars are a homemade twist on the classic Cherry Mash candy. They feature a sweet cherry layer topped with a crunchy chocolate and peanut coating, making them an irresistible treat for cherry and chocolate lovers alike.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Cherry Layer
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups shredded coconut (optional)
Chocolate Peanut Topping
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Make the cherry layer: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, butter, chopped cherries, condensed milk, vanilla, and almond extract until well combined. Stir in shredded coconut if using. Spread evenly in the prepared pan and refrigerate for 1 hour until firm.
- Prepare the topping: Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in chopped peanuts.
- Assemble: Pour the chocolate mixture over the chilled cherry layer, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for another 1-2 hours until firm.
- Cut & serve: Once set, cut into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- For a firmer texture, freeze for 30 minutes before cutting.
- Substitute peanuts with almonds or cashews for a different flavor.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg