Name: Decadent Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups Margarine (Butter can be used as an alternative.); 0.5 cups SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend (Substitute with 3/4 cup traditional granulated sugar if preferred.); 1 tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract; 0.5 teaspoon Almond Extract; 3.25 cups All-Purpose Flour; 3 tablespoons Cornstarch; 0.125 teaspoon Salt; 11.5 ounces Dark Chocolate Chips; 0.75 cups Chopped Maraschino Cherries (Juices drained.)

As I sifted through the holiday recipes, I stumbled upon a delightful find: Low-Sugar Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars. The combination of rich chocolate chips and vibrant maraschino cherries creates an indulgent treat that’s a must for festive gatherings, all while keeping sugar to a minimum with SPLENDA® Naturals. Not only are these bars an easy bake for anyone pressed for time, but they also become a crowd-pleaser, balancing sweet and tart flavors in each bite. Whether you’re preparing for a family get-together or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these bars are sure to impress. Who else is excited to dive into this deliciously easy dessert?

Why are these bars a must-try?

Decadent flavors: These delectable Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars combine rich dark chocolate with sweet-tart cherries for a flavor explosion.

Low-sugar delight: Prepared with SPLENDA® Naturals, they are guilt-free, making them perfect for health-conscious friends and family.

Quick and easy: With simple steps, even novice bakers can whip these up in no time, making them the ideal treat for spontaneous gatherings.

Festive appeal: Their vibrant color and delightful taste make these bars the perfect addition to any holiday spread, sure to impress guests.

Versatility in serving: Pair these bars with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up, or enjoy them as a sweet gift. Looking for more easy-to-make treats? Check out Chocolate Chip Cookies or try the delicious Chocolate Eclair.

Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars Ingredients

For the Base
• Margarine – 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks); provides the fat necessary for a tender shortbread texture. Butter can be used as an alternative.
• SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend – 1/2 cup; acts as a sweetener to reduce added sugars without compromising flavor. Substitute with 3/4 cup traditional granulated sugar if preferred.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – 1 tablespoon; enhances the overall flavor profile of the bars.
• Almond Extract – 1/2 teaspoon; adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the cherries.
• All-Purpose Flour – 3 1/4 cups; provides structure to the bars.
• Cornstarch – 3 tablespoons; contributes to the soft texture of the shortbread.
• Salt – 1/8 teaspoon; balances the sweetness.

For the Filling
• Dark Chocolate Chips – 11.5 ounces; adds richness and a delicious chocolate flavor.
• Chopped Maraschino Cherries – 3/4 cup (juices drained); provides a sweet-tart flavor and adds moisture.

Enjoy the delightful process of creating these Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars, a tempting treat that’s perfect for every occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step ensures your bakings are evenly cooked to perfection. Meanwhile, prepare a 9×13 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper for easy release after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Margarine and Sweetener
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of margarine and ½ cup of SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This is crucial for incorporating air into the bars, which adds to their tenderness.

Step 3: Add the Extracts
Once the margarine and sweetener are properly creamed, add 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the bowl. Mix these ingredients in at low speed until they are just combined, creating a fragrant base for your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. This mixture forms the structural backbone of the bars. Whisking helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the salt, ensuring consistent flavor throughout.

Step 5: Blend Dry into Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Continue until everything is just combined, ensuring not to overmix, as this could lead to tough bars. A thick dough should start forming, ready to envelope the delightful chocolate and cherries.

Step 6: Fold in Dark Chocolate Chips
Now, it’s time to indulge! Gently fold in 11.5 ounces of dark chocolate chips with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Visualize a luscious mixture studded with rich chocolate bits that promise delectable bites in your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars.

Step 7: Add Maraschino Cherries
Chop ¾ cup of maraschino cherries and squeeze out any excess juice. Carefully fold the cherries into the dough using the spatula, making sure to maintain their shape as they add delightful bursts of flavor and moisture to the bars.

Step 8: Spread the Mixture
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with the spatula to reach the corners. Aim for an even thickness across the dish, which will help the bars bake uniformly and look inviting when finished.

Step 9: Bake the Bars
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges, which should turn a golden brown, indicating that your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are close to perfection.

Step 10: Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator for about an hour to set. This chilling step helps to firm up the bars, making them easier to cut into neat squares.

Step 11: Cut and Serve
After chilling, allow the bars to come to room temperature before cutting them into 48 squares. This step enhances the flavors and texture, providing the best experience when serving your beautiful Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars to your loved ones.

Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Cooling Time Matters: Allow the bars to cool completely before chilling; this ensures easier cutting and maintains their perfect texture.

Room Temperature is Key: Serving these bars at room temperature brings out their flavors beautifully, while serving them cold may dull the taste and texture.

Smooth Spreading: Use a spatula to evenly spread the mixture in the baking dish; this helps achieve consistent baking and a lovely appearance once cut.

Choose Your Chocolate Wisely: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips for the best flavor impact in your Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars.

Avoid Overmixing: When blending in the dry ingredients, mix gently to maintain a tender shortbread texture. Overmixing can lead to tougher bars.

What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

These deliciously rich, sweet-tart bars deserve a full spread to complement their decadent flavor profile.

Creamy Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream adds a luscious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the chewy bars.
Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of a rich espresso enhance the sweetness while providing an invigorating lift during dessert time.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits not only brings freshness but also balances the richness of the bars, creating a well-rounded meal.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet bites echo the chocolate theme while introducing a juicy element that pairs well with the shortbread bars’ texture.
Decadent Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a mug of hot chocolate for a comforting pairing that infuses warmth and a touch of indulgence.
Bubbly Sparkling Water: A refreshing, fizzy drink helps cleanse the palate and ensures you enjoy every bite of those chocolate chip maraschino cherry shortbread bars.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add a creamy yet tangy dimension to your dessert experience, ensuring every bite is balanced and delicious.
Minty Tea: A soothing peppermint tea brings a refreshing twist that enhances the overall flavor of your sweet spread without overpowering it.

Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful bars and make them your own!

Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a satisfying crunch. They’ll bring a lovely contrast to the rich chocolate and sweet cherries.
Citrus Zest: Swap out almond extract for citrus zest—like lemon or orange—for a refreshing zing that brightens the flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a friendly version that everyone can enjoy. These bars can still be a hit at gatherings!
Dark Chocolate Alternative: Try using milk chocolate chips instead, if you prefer a sweeter taste that might appeal to kids.
Extra Chocolate: For an indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking and cooling. It adds a decadent finish that’s sure to impress.
Cherry Variation: Use fresh cherries when in season! Just make sure to pit and chop them for a burst of freshness that’ll brighten any bite.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the batter to introduce a surprising warmth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Layered Dessert: Turn these bars into an impressive dessert by adding layers of whipped cream and fresh fruit for a delightful twist. They make a stunning presentation!

These variations allow for endless customization, making your baking adventures even more enjoyable. While you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our scrumptious Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl or the delightful Red White Bars for more treats that bring sweetness to any occasion!

Storage Tips for Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Fridge: Store your bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and delicious.

Freezer: Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; simply thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: For a warm treat, place bars in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to gently heat without losing their delightful texture.

Room Temperature: If serving soon, let the bars sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for optimal flavor and softness.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, the bars can be baked ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their rich texture and flavor, let them cool completely before storing. When you’re ready to serve, allow the bars to come to room temperature for optimal taste. This time-saving prep makes it easy to enjoy your favorite sweet treat without the last-minute hustle!

Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe maraschino cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing maraschino cherries, look for those that are bright in color with a glossy finish. Avoid any with dark spots or a dull appearance, as these can indicate a lack of freshness or flavor. Cherries should be firm to the touch, ensuring they’ll hold up well in your delicious Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars.

How should I store Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars for peak freshness?
Very! Store your shortbread bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for a slightly firmer texture. If you prefer longer storage, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months, and can be thawed in the fridge whenever you’re ready for a treat!

Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze the bars, first allow them to cool completely. Then, cut them into squares and wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped squares into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove them from the freezer and thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before savoring.

What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If you find your dough is crumbly and not holding together well, don’t fret! Gradually add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time into the mixture while mixing on low speed until it starts to come together. The moisture will help bind the ingredients better without compromising the shortbread texture. Remember to mix gently to maintain tenderness.

Are Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars suitable for individuals with nut allergies?
Yes! If you’re preparing these bars for someone who has nut allergies, simply omit the almond extract and use vanilla extract exclusively. The recipe still holds its delightful flavor without compromising taste, and everyone can enjoy the delicious Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars together!