There’s nothing quite like the sweet surprise of a Maraschino Cherry Bar to turn an ordinary afternoon into something special. The moment you cut into these delightful squares, the vibrant bursts of cherries and the comforting embrace of soft coconut make your heart swoon. On a recent quest to reinvent my baking repertoire, I stumbled upon this nostalgic treat that combines childhood memories with an adult’s craving for homemade goodness.
As I mixed the ingredients, the delicious aroma of cherries and buttery batter filled my kitchen, transporting me back to family gatherings where these bars were always a favorite. They’re not just easy to make—taking under an hour from start to finish—but they also bring people together, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
Whether you’re craving a sweet snack after a long day or looking for a standout dessert to impress guests, these Maraschino Cherry Bars are the answer. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a slice of joy into your home!
Why You'll Love This Maraschino Cherry Bars
- These Maraschino Cherry Bars are incredibly easy to make, with a total time of just under an hour, making them perfect for busy bakers.
- The delightful combination of cherries, coconut, and walnuts creates an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Their vibrant appearance makes them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table, sure to impress your guests at gatherings.
- Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack or a sweet treat for parties, they are guaranteed to please a crowd and become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Maraschino Cherry Bars Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to make these delightful treats!
For the Crust
- All-purpose flour – Gives the bars structure; feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Brown sugar – Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness that complements the cherries perfectly.
- Butter or margarine – Softened for easier mixing, this ingredient makes the crust tender.
For the Filling
- Large eggs – Provide moisture and bind the ingredients together.
- Baking powder – Helps the bars rise slightly, creating a tender texture.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness.
- Flaked coconut – Adds a chewy texture and tropical taste; shred your own for a fresher flavor!
- Chopped walnuts – Introduce a crunchy element; you can swap these for pecans if you prefer.
- Maraschino cherries – The star of the show, giving these bars their signature flavor; drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
For the Icing
- Confectioners’ sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet topping that beautifully contrasts with the bars.
- Butter – Softened to help achieve a creamy consistency in the icing.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor throughout the icing.
- Water – Used to reach the desired icing consistency; adjust based on preference.
How to Make Maraschino Cherry Bars
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Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to bake your bars to perfection.
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Mix Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup brown sugar, and ½ cup softened butter or margarine. Stir until you achieve a crumbly texture.
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Press Crust: Gently press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan, ensuring an even layer across the base.
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Whisk Filling: In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 ¼ cups brown sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, baking powder, salt, flaked coconut, chopped walnuts, and chopped maraschino cherries until well combined.
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Spread Filling: Pour the cherry mixture over the crust in the pan, smoothing it out to create a beautiful, colorful layer.
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Bake: Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the bars are set and lightly browned on top.
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Cool: Allow the baked bars to cool completely in the pan before preparing the icing, letting the flavors settle beautifully.
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Make Icing: In a bowl, mix together 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons softened butter, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon water until smooth and creamy. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
Optional: Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Maraschino Cherry Bars
Room Temperature: Store leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to preserve their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy those delicious Maraschino Cherry Bars with a scoop of ice cream!
What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Bars?
Imagine the smiles and nostalgia these delightful treats can bring when paired with a few complementary favorites!
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Velvety Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and rich flavor contrast beautifully with the chewy bars, creating a heavenly combo. Serve a scoop alongside for that ultimate dessert experience.
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Cold Glass of Milk: Nothing beats the classic pairing of a sweet treat with cold milk; it highlights the bar’s sweetness while balancing the flavors.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cherry bars, enhancing their vibrant taste while adding a refreshing element to your dessert platter.
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Coconut Cream Pie: For a tropical twist, the rich and smooth coconut pie pairs seamlessly, echoing the coconut notes in the cherry bars while adding a luscious texture.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing sip of lemonade or iced tea cuts through the sweetness, providing a zesty balancing act, perfect for warm afternoons.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add richness to your bars with a simple chocolate drizzle. The deep chocolate contrasts with the sweet cherries, elevating the dessert experience.
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Toasted Almonds: The crunch and nutty flavor of toasted almonds enhance the walnut notes in the bars and add an extra layer of texture, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the bars adds an indulgent touch, amplifying their sweetness and creating a luscious experience.
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Coffee: A strong brew balances out the rich sweetness, creating a perfect afternoon treat that invites you to relax and savor each bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Maraschino Cherry Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet treats with minimal last-minute effort. You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the flour, brown sugar, and butter, then pressing it into your pan; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. The filling can also be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just be sure to whisk it well before spreading. When it’s time to bake, all you need to do is pour the chilled mixture over the prepared crust and pop it in the oven for that homemade goodness. Trust me, with these make-ahead tips, you’ll find that your Maraschino Cherry Bars are just as delicious and delightful as always!
Maraschino Cherry Bars Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists that will make your Maraschino Cherry Bars even more delightful!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
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Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and replace them with an equal amount of additional flaked coconut for a softer texture.
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Cherry Swap: Try using diced fresh cherries or frozen cherries instead of maraschino for a more vibrant and tart flavor. The added freshness will uplift the whole dessert!
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Coconut Alternative: Replace flaked coconut with chopped pecans to create a different nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
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Fruity Twist: Add in a cup of diced pineapple or another stone fruit to the filling for a tropical variation that dances on your taste buds.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After icing, drizzle melted chocolate over the bars for added decadence. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cherries.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising heat that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the icing for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens each bite! This variation will awaken your senses.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the perfect Maraschino Cherry Bars, make sure your butter is at room temperature to ensure a smooth, crumbly crust.
- When mixing the filling, whisk the eggs thoroughly to incorporate air for a lighter texture.
- Don’t skip draining the maraschino cherries well or you may end up with a soggy filling, which can ruin the overall texture of the bars.
- Remember to bake at 350°F for the recommended 40 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and set in the center for best results.
Maraschino Cherry Bars Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select maraschino cherries for the bars?
Absolutely! When choosing maraschino cherries, look for ones that are bright in color and have a firm texture. Avoid any that appear mushy or overly jarred with syrup, as they can contribute excess moisture to your bars. Ideally, you’ll want a brand that uses minimal artificial ingredients for the best flavor in your Maraschino Cherry Bars.
How should I store leftover Maraschino Cherry Bars?
For sure! Store your leftover Maraschino Cherry Bars at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, transfer them to the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for a whole week. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving; it enhances their flavor and texture!
Can I freeze Maraschino Cherry Bars? What’s the best method?
Absolutely, freezing is a great option! To freeze your Maraschino Cherry Bars, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, individually wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag. This method helps avoid freezer burn. They should keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
What if my Maraschino Cherry Bars turn out too sticky?
Very important! If your bars are too sticky, it could be due to the moisture content in the cherries. Make sure to drain them thoroughly before adding. As an alternative, you can also add an extra tablespoon of all-purpose flour to the filling mixture to absorb some of that moisture. If they are still sticky after baking, dust them lightly with confectioners’ sugar before serving to create a nice touch and mask the stickiness.
Are there any dietary considerations for making Maraschino Cherry Bars?
Certainly! If you’re concerned about allergies, keep in mind that these bars contain nuts (walnuts), gluten (from the flour), and dairy (from butter). For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds. To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Enjoy these treats worry-free!
Maraschino Cherry Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and softened butter until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, baking powder, salt, coconut, walnuts, and cherries until well combined.
- Pour the cherry mixture over the crust, smoothing it out.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until set and lightly browned.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Mix confectioners' sugar, butter, vanilla, and water into a smooth icing, then drizzle over the cooled bars.
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