Cherry Mash Bars
Cherry Mash Bars are a delicious homemade version of the classic candy, combining a sweet cherry filling with a crunchy chocolate and peanut topping. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are a nostalgic treat that’s easy to make!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 16–20 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the cherry layer:
- 2 cups (200 g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 jar (10 oz / 285 g) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
For the chocolate-peanut topping:
- 2 cups (350 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup (250 g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (120 g) chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the cherry layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the chopped maraschino cherries, cherry juice, and almond extract. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.
- Spread the cherry mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Place in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the chocolate-peanut topping:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until smooth and melted.
- Stir in the chopped peanuts.
- Assemble the bars:
- Remove the cherry layer from the freezer. Pour the chocolate-peanut mixture over the cherry layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill and set:
- Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Cut and serve:
- Once firm, cut into squares or bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a firmer cherry layer, reduce the amount of cherry juice to 2 tablespoons.
- Add a drizzle of white chocolate on top for extra decoration.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/cherry-mash-bars/