Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cherry Mash Bars are a nostalgic, sweet treat featuring a luscious cherry-flavored center topped with a rich, chocolate-peanut coating. These no-bake bars are easy to prepare and perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a delicious, old-fashioned candy bar flavor. Their vibrant pink color and satisfying crunch make them a standout dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Granulated sugar
- Evaporated milk
- Butter
- Marshmallows
- Cherry-flavored gelatin
- Powdered sugar
- Chopped peanuts
- Chocolate chips
- Peanut butter
Directions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove from heat and add the marshmallows and cherry-flavored gelatin. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until well combined.
- Pour the cherry mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Allow it to cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the cooled cherry layer and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for added crunch.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Once firm, cut into squares and serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 bars
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the peanuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
- Extra Crunchy: Add crispy rice cereal to the chocolate layer for additional texture.
- Dark Chocolate Twist: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.
- Cherry-Almond Bars: Substitute chopped almonds for peanuts and add a few drops of almond extract to the cherry layer.
Storage/Reheating
Store the Cherry Mash Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. No reheating is required.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry gelatin?
No, cherry-flavored gelatin provides both the color and flavor needed for this recipe.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?
Allow the bars to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing with a sharp knife.
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter can be used for a different flavor profile.
Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
Yes, refrigeration helps the bars set properly and maintains their texture.
Can I make these bars dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter, milk, and chocolate alternatives to make the recipe dairy-free.
What type of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal, but milk or dark chocolate can also be used.
How long do these bars last?
They can last up to a week in the refrigerator and up to 2 months in the freezer.
Can I add coconut to the recipe?
Yes, shredded coconut can be added to the cherry layer for extra flavor and texture.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, if all ingredients are verified gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just use a larger baking dish or prepare in two separate pans.
Conclusion
Cherry Mash Bars are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that brings together the sweet, fruity flavor of cherries with rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts. Perfect for any occasion, these vibrant bars are sure to become a favorite with family and friends. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe whenever you’re in the mood for a nostalgic, homemade dessert.
PrintCherry Mash Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Mash Bars are a sweet, nostalgic treat inspired by the classic Cherry Mash candy. These layered bars feature a creamy, cherry-flavored filling made with marshmallows and maraschino cherries, topped with a rich, crunchy chocolate-peanut layer. They’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you crave a fun, fruity dessert!
Ingredients
For the Cherry Layer:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (reserve 2 tablespoons juice)
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow creme (or 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
For the Chocolate-Peanut Topping:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups salted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Make the Cherry Layer:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, milk, and butter.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved (about 3–4 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped maraschino cherries, reserved cherry juice, marshmallow creme (or mini marshmallows), and almond extract if using.
- Mix until smooth, then gradually stir in the powdered sugar until fully combined and thick.
- Spread the cherry mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Let it cool slightly while preparing the topping.
- Prepare the Chocolate-Peanut Topping:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and melted.
- Stir in the chopped peanuts.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Pour the chocolate-peanut mixture over the cherry layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill and Set:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once set, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper.
- Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a smooth chocolate topping.
- Extra Cherry Flavor: Add an extra tablespoon of cherry juice to the filling for a bolder cherry taste.
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