Classic American Cherry Chip Bars (Print)

Buttery chocolate chip bars with tart cherries. Soft, chewy texture and irresistible flavor in every bite.

# Components:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
03 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Wet Ingredients

04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
06 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
08 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

→ Add-ins

09 - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
10 - 3/4 cup dried tart cherries, chopped
11 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and sea salt until thoroughly blended.
03 - In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
04 - Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
05 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a spatula or mixer on low speed until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
06 - Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped dried tart cherries, and nuts if using. Ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
07 - Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
08 - Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just set.
09 - Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift out, then cut into 16 bars.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Makes 16 generous portions perfect for sharing
  • Easier than scooping individual cookies
  • Uses pantry staples you likely already have
  • Freezes beautifully for future cravings
02 -
  • These bars will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days in an airtight container
  • The flavor actually improves after the first day as ingredients meld together
  • Can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months wrapped well
  • The perfect balance of chocolate and cherry creates an addictive flavor combination
  • The dried cherries add a sophisticated twist to traditional cookie bars
03 -
  • The quality of your vanilla makes a noticeable difference in these bars—splurge on pure vanilla extract rather than artificial flavoring.
  • When incorporating the dried cherries, chop them if they're particularly large to ensure even distribution throughout the bars.
  • For a more complex flavor profile, try browning the butter before using it in the recipe—just be sure to cool it to room temperature before creaming with the sugars.
  • And finally, line your pan with parchment paper extending over the sides; this creates handles that make removing the bars effortless for perfect cutting.

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