Crisp graham cracker crust gives way to a symphony of sweet and tart flavors in these Chocolate Cherry Magic Bars. Imagine the satisfying crunch of pecans mingling with chewy coconut, bursts of juicy cherry, and the comforting richness of chocolate, all held together by a layer of creamy, caramelized condensed milk. This delightful combination of textures and flavors makes for an unforgettable dessert experience.
This recipe works so well because of the layering technique. Each ingredient contributes its unique character, and the sweetened condensed milk acts as a binder, creating a cohesive and decadent treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply a sweet treat any day of the week, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why you’ll love this Chocolate Cherry Magic Bars
- These bars are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and effort.
- The combination of chocolate, cherry, coconut, and pecans creates a symphony of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
- They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations.
- With simple ingredients, these chocolate cherry magic bars are a budget-friendly dessert option.
- They are easily portable and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for potlucks and parties.
- Clean up is a breeze with the parchment paper lining the pan!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
- 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: A little goes a long way! If you’re not a fan of almond extract, vanilla extract can be substituted.
How to make Chocolate Cherry Magic Bars
Step 1: Prepare the oven and pan
Chocolate cherry magic bars makes every moment feel satisfying. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
Step 2: Make the crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a crust.
Step 3: Layer the ingredients
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust. Sprinkle the chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and halved maraschino cherries evenly over the sweetened condensed milk. Drizzle with almond extract.
Step 4: Bake the bars
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and the edges are set.
Step 5: Cool and cut
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
Chef’s Tip: For easier cutting, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Press the graham cracker crust firmly into the pan for a sturdy base.
- Spread the sweetened condensed milk evenly to ensure all the ingredients are properly bound together.
- Keep a close eye on the bars while baking to prevent over-browning.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting for clean and even slices.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate cherry magic bars are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair well with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee. If you’re looking for something different, check out these strawberry cheesecake tacos for another fruity dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Yes, feel free to experiment with milk chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, or even white chocolate chips to customize the flavor to your liking.
Can I add other ingredients to these bars?
Absolutely! You can add other nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch of flavor.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. For another great bar recipe, take a look at these key lime bars for a citrusy treat.
These chocolate cherry magic bars are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. The delightful combination of flavors and textures, coupled with their ease of preparation, makes them a guaranteed hit for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a little magic in your kitchen! Let us know in the comments what variations you tried!
Chocolate Cherry Magic Bars
These chocolate cherry magic bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert! Imagine layers of buttery graham cracker crust, sweet and tart cherries, rich chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and crunchy pecans all baked together into gooey, irresistible squares. The combination of textures and flavors is simply magical, making them the perfect treat for any occasion, especially the holidays. Prepare to be amazed by how easy and delicious these bars are – they’re sure to become a new family favorite! These bars are so easy to make, even the kids can help! (Minimum 150 characters).
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a crust.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and halved maraschino cherries evenly over the sweetened condensed milk. Drizzle with almond extract.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and the edges are set.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For easier cutting, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can substitute other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for the pecans. For a darker chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg