If you are looking for a dessert that is both decadent and surprisingly easy to prepare, these Chocolate Covered Cherry Bars are a must-try.
The rich cocoa crust, sweet maraschino cherries, creamy frosting, and glossy chocolate glaze come together to create a layered treat that feels indulgent without being fussy.
They are perfect for holiday trays, potlucks, or simply when a chocolate craving strikes.
Why you’ll love this recipe
Chocolate Covered Cherry Bars are one of those desserts that strike the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
You get the fudgy bite from the cocoa crust, the sweet pop of cherries in every square, and a creamy frosting layer topped with silky melted chocolate.
They look like something straight from a bakery display but are surprisingly simple to make in your own kitchen.
With a straightforward prep and short bake time, they are ideal for beginner bakers and anyone who loves a show-stopping treat that does not take all day.
Before you get started
For the smoothest process, it helps to have all your ingredients measured out before you begin.
Make sure your butter is softened for the crust so it blends easily with the sugar. Drain the cherries thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent extra liquid from seeping into the bars.
Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal, and preheat the oven so it is ready when you are.
With these simple steps, you will be set up for success before the mixing even begins.
How to make Chocolate Covered Cherry Bars
Making these Chocolate Covered Cherry Bars is a layered process, but each step is simple and rewarding.
You will start by preparing a buttery cocoa crust that bakes into a sturdy base. While it cools slightly, you will mix up a quick vanilla frosting and arrange the cherries across the crust.
Once the frosting is spread and cherries are nestled in place, you will finish with a glossy chocolate glaze that ties everything together.
After some chilling time in the fridge, the bars slice beautifully into neat squares, each one filled with a burst of cherry sweetness under a rich chocolate topping.
Ingredients
Base
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Cherries
- 36 maraschino cherries (approx.) 10 oz jar, drained
Frosting
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Glaze
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp butter
Step-by-step instructions to make Chocolate Covered Cherry Bars
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
Step 2
Mix the butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and flour until combined. Press into the pan and bake for 15 minutes.
Step 3
In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 4
Drain the cherries well and pat dry. Cut in half if desired.
Step 5
Spread the cherries evenly over the baked crust.
Step 6
Pour the frosting over the cherries and spread evenly.
Step 7
Melt the chocolate chips with butter until smooth, then drizzle or spread over the top.
Step 8
Refrigerate until set. Cut into squares and serve.
Variations
Almond twist: Add a splash of almond extract to the frosting for a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
White chocolate glaze: Swap the semi-sweet chips with white chocolate for a sweeter and creamier topping.
Festive version: Use red and green cherries during the holidays to make these bars extra cheerful.
How to store
At room temperature
Keep the bars at room temperature for up to one day if serving soon. Cover loosely to protect from drying out.
In the refrigerator
Refrigerate the bars in an airtight container and enjoy within one week. Layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent them from sticking together.
In the freezer
Freeze for up to three months. Wrap tightly in plastic and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare these bars a day or two ahead of time without any issues. Just store them in the refrigerator until ready to cut and serve.
Do I have to cut the cherries in half?
No, you can leave them whole if you prefer a bigger bite of cherry in each bar.
Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Cherry Bars?
Absolutely. They freeze well as long as they are wrapped securely. Let them thaw before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Cherry Bars are rich, colorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare.
They make a wonderful addition to dessert trays for parties, holidays, or just a sweet family treat at home.
With their fudgy crust, creamy filling, juicy cherries, and smooth chocolate topping, these bars are sure to impress.
Give them a try and let me know how they turned out for you, I love hearing from readers who bake along.
Also try these recipes!
- Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
- Strawberry Cream Cheese Crepes Filling Recipe
- Shamrock Pretzel Pops Recipe
Chocolate Covered Cherry Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Base
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Cherries
- 36 maraschino cherries (approx.) 10 oz jar, drained
Frosting
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Glaze
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- Mix the butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and flour until combined. Press into the pan and bake for 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drain the cherries well and pat dry. Cut in half if desired.
- Spread the cherries evenly over the baked crust.
- Pour the frosting over the cherries and spread evenly.
- Melt the chocolate chips with butter until smooth, then drizzle or spread over the top.
- Refrigerate until set. Cut into squares and serve.
