Cherry Mash Bars

Imagine biting into a Cherry Mash Bar, where the chewy sweetness of cherry chips meets the creamy delight of marshmallow creme, topped with a rich layer of chocolate and peanut butter.

It’s a symphony of flavors crafted with culinary finesse, each bite inviting you deeper into its indulgent charm.

But there’s more to this delectable creation that might surprise you, offering a twist you won’t want to miss.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 baking dish
• 1 saucepan
• 1 mixing bowl
• 1 spatula
• 1 knife
• 1 cutting board
• 1 microwave-safe bowl

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
• 1 package (10 oz) cherry chips
• 1 package (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups salted peanuts, chopped

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while making Cherry Mash Bars, here’s a suggested timeline:

1. Preparation and Reading (10 minutes total):
   • Read the Recipe: Spend about 5 minutes reading through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and gather all your ingredients and equipment.
   • Set Up: Use the remaining 5 minutes to set up your workspace, line the baking dish with parchment paper, and verify all ingredients are at room temperature.
2. Prep Time (20 minutes):
   • Mix Cherry Layer: Spend 10 minutes combining the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in the saucepan. Bring it to a boil while stirring constantly.
   • Combine Ingredients: Once boiled for 3 minutes, take about 5 minutes to stir in the marshmallow creme and cherry chips until well combined.
   • Spread Cherry Mixture: Use the last 5 minutes to pour and spread the cherry mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Cook Time (3 minutes):
   • Prepare Chocolate Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter in short intervals for a total of 3 minutes, stirring until smooth.
4. Assemble the Bars (5 minutes):
   • Spread Chocolate: Spend about 3 minutes pouring and spreading the chocolate mixture over the cherry layer.
   • Add Peanuts: Use the remaining 2 minutes to sprinkle the chopped peanuts evenly over the chocolate layer.
5. Cooling and Resting Time (1 hour 15 minutes):
   • Initial Cooling: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 15 minutes.
   • Refrigeration: Place the bars in the refrigerator for 1 hour to set completely.
6. Serving (5 minutes):
   • Cut and Serve: Once set, use about 5 minutes to cut the bars into pieces with a sharp knife and serve.

Recipe Instructions

Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

In a saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and butter; bring to a boil while stirring constantly.

Boil for 3 minutes and remove from heat.

Stir in marshmallow creme and cherry chips until well combined.

Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and peanut butter together in short intervals, stirring until smooth.

Pour the chocolate mixture over the cherry layer and spread evenly.

Sprinkle chopped peanuts evenly over the chocolate layer.

Let the bars cool at room temperature for 15 minutes before refrigerating for 1 hour.

Once set, cut into bars with a sharp knife and serve.

Serving Tips

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair each Cherry Mash Bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and creamy complement.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra layer of sweetness and a decorative touch.
• Fresh Cherries: Garnish with fresh cherries to enhance the cherry flavor and add a pop of color.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the bars for an elegant presentation and a richer taste.
• Coffee or Tea: Serve with a warm cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and provide a comforting beverage option.

Storage

To store Cherry Mash Bars, place them in an airtight container.

Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week.

For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped bars for up to three months.

Freezing

To freeze Cherry Mash Bars, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap.

Then, place them in an airtight container.

Store in the freezer for up to 3 months for ideal freshness.

Reheating

To reheat Cherry Mash Bars, gently warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Ensure even heating by covering with a microwave-safe lid. This will prevent the chocolate from melting excessively.

Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Cherry Mash Bars are a delightful and nostalgic treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, cherry, and peanut butter.

With a relatively simple preparation process, these bars are perfect for any dessert occasion.

Remember to allow the bars to cool properly to guarantee they set well before cutting.

For an added touch, you can personalize the topping with additional nuts or a drizzle of white chocolate.

Enjoy crafting these delicious bars and sharing them with friends and family!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Cherry Chips With Another Type of Chips?

Absolutely, you can substitute cherry chips with white chocolate or dark chocolate chips. They’ll add a different flavor profile, but still enhance the overall taste. Experiment with flavors like raspberry or orange for a unique twist.

Are There Any Nut-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?

You can easily swap out the salted peanuts for toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. Their delightful crunch and subtle flavor will replace the nuts perfectly, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delectable dessert without worry.

How Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?

To make these bars gluten-free, simply verify all your ingredients, like chocolate chips and marshmallow creme, are certified gluten-free. Replace any gluten-containing items with suitable alternatives, transforming this dessert into a delightful gluten-free treat!

What Are Some Variations for the Topping?

You can jazz up the topping by adding toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist or drizzling white chocolate for elegance. Swap peanuts for almonds or pecans if you crave a nutty crunch with a gourmet flair.

Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Cherry Chips?

You can substitute fresh cherries for cherry chips, but expect a different texture and flavor. Chop them finely, and consider adjusting sugar levels for sweetness consistency. Fresh cherries add a juicy twist, enhancing your dish’s vibrant taste.