Chocolate Cherry Bars

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Chocolate Cherry Bars.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing an 8-inch square baking pan to ensure easy removal later.

2. Step 2

   In a medium mixing bowl, blend together all-purpose flour, white sugar, and cocoa powder.

3. Step 3

   Incorporate the butter by cutting it in until the mixture takes on a crumbly texture reminiscent of coarse sand.

4. Step 4

   Firmly press this crumbly blend into the bottom of your prepared pan, then slide it into the oven to bake for 10 minutes, allowing it to set just right.

5. Step 5

   While the crust bakes, melt sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips together in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the chocolate is luxuriously smooth.

6. Step 6

   Once your crust is ready, pour this velvety chocolate mixture over it and return the pan to the oven for an additional 15 minutes.

7. Step 7

   After baking, let the pan cool on a wire rack, allowing the delicious aromas to fill your kitchen.

8. Step 8

   Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together confectioners' sugar, 3 tablespoons of butter, and maraschino cherry juice until you achieve a silky consistency.

9. Step 9

   Spread this delightful mixture over the cooled chocolate layer, adding a pop of flavor.

10. Step 10

    For the finishing touch, melt semisweet chocolate in a microwave-safe dish or over a double boiler, stirring until it’s perfectly smooth.

11. Step 11

    Transfer this melted chocolate into a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner snipped off, and create beautiful stripes over the bars with a gentle back-and-forth motion.

12. Step 12

    Finally, let the bars cool completely before slicing them into tempting squares, ready to be enjoyed.

13. Step 13

    Each bite is a delightful journey of flavors that will surely impress your friends and family.