Cherry Chew Bars are the perfect mix of chewy, buttery, and fruity goodness. With a golden cookie-like crust and a sweet cherry filling, these bars strike the right balance between rich and refreshing. They’re great for potlucks, holidays, or when you just want an easy dessert that looks and tastes impressive. Each bite has that comforting homemade flavor that reminds you of old-fashioned cherry pie—only easier to make.
Servings: 16 bars
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
2. Ingredients
For the Base:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup brown sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling:
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2 large eggs
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1 cup brown sugar
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
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1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
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1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
3. Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Base
In a bowl, mix the flour and brown sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and vanilla. Stir until smooth. Fold in nuts, coconut, and cherries until evenly mixed.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the warm crust. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cool, cut into squares or bars.
4. Nutrition (Per Bar)
Calories: 190
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 20g
Fiber: 1g
5. Tips
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Drain the cherries well to avoid extra moisture in the filling.
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For extra flavor, use a mix of maraschino and dried cherries.
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Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top for a bakery-style touch.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week.
