No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars Recipe
If you’re looking for an irresistibly easy dessert that combines the classic pairing of chocolate and cherries, No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars are truly a dream come true. Every bite brings a luscious mix of creamy chocolate, sweet cherry-studded coconut, and a buttery, crunchy cookie base. The magic? You don’t even need to turn on your oven. Perfect for holidays or any gathering, these bars make dessert effortless but never boring. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just diving into homemade treats, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand whenever that chocolate cherry craving hits.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars transform into such a showstopper. Each element plays a key role in building those delectable layers and giving the bars their signature flavor and texture.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form the rich, chocolatey foundation for your bars; choose either chocolate graham crackers or Oreos (minus the filling) for best results.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Acts as the glue for your crust, lending a buttery depth and helping the crumbs set perfectly in the pan.
- Sweetened condensed milk: The magic ingredient for holding the coconut and cherries together while adding creamy sweetness.
- Shredded sweetened coconut: Adds a chewy texture and a pop of tropical flavor, balancing the richness beautifully.
- Chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry): These jewel-like bursts of cherry flavor add pops of color and sweetness—just make sure to dry them thoroughly.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted for that glossy, decadent top layer; their slight bitterness keeps things from getting too sweet.
- Coconut oil: Ensures the chocolate topping melts smoothly and sets with a gorgeous shine.
How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This little trick not only prevents sticking but also makes it a breeze to lift out your bars once they’re set and ready to be sliced.
Step 2: Make and Press the Crust
In a medium bowl, blend the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter together until every crumb is moist and evenly coated. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan, making sure to create an even, well-packed crust that will hold together during slicing.
Step 3: Mix the Cherry Coconut Filling
In another bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and those beautiful, chopped maraschino cherries (be sure they’re well dried to avoid soggy bars!). Stir everything until it’s evenly combined and fully coated in that luscious condensed milk.
Step 4: Spread the Filling
Spoon the cherry coconut mixture over your crust, using a spatula to gently smooth it into an even layer. Take your time here—the more even you get it, the more gorgeous your finished No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars will look!
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the semi-sweet chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely smooth and shiny. Don’t rush this step—steady stirring gives you that dreamy, pourable chocolate layer.
Step 6: Finish and Chill
Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the cherry filling, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop the pan into your refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until everything is fully set and ready to slice. The chilling not only firms up the bars, it also gives the flavors time to meld into chocolate-cherry bliss.
How to Serve No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars
Garnishes
If you want to elevate your No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars, try sprinkling a few extra chopped cherries or toasted coconut right before serving. Even a little drizzle of melted white chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a bakery-worthy touch.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly decadent treat. A fresh fruit salad or some tart raspberries on the side provide a beautiful balance to the sweet, rich bars.
Creative Ways to Present
Show off your No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars at parties by slicing them into neat squares and arranging them on a pretty platter, or package them individually in festive paper cups for easy grab-and-go treats at picnics or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, making them a convenient treat to have on hand for surprise guests or afternoon cravings.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully! Place cut bars in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat, but if you like your No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars a little softer, leave them out at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. This brings out the chocolate’s creaminess and makes them even more irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used if you pit and chop them finely, but be sure to blot them dry thoroughly. Maraschino cherries, however, offer classic color and sweetness that really shine in this recipe.
Are there gluten-free options for the crust?
Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free chocolate cookies or graham crackers, and you’ll have gluten-free No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars everyone can enjoy.
Do I need to use coconut oil in the chocolate topping?
Coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it a glossy finish, but you can substitute with butter or even a neutral-flavored oil in a pinch.
Can I make No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for making ahead! Prepare and chill them the night before, or even freeze them well in advance for stress-free party planning.
Why do my bars sometimes turn out soggy?
The most common culprit is extra moisture from the cherries. Be sure to drain and pat them very dry before mixing them in, and don’t skip this step for perfect bars every time.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend these No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars enough. Their layers of chocolate, cherry, and coconut are guaranteed to delight anyone who tries them. If you’re craving something sweet, simple, and stunning, give these bars a spot in your dessert rotation—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
Print
No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of chocolate, cherries, and coconut with these easy-to-make No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Bars. Perfect for a sweet treat or a special occasion, these bars are sure to impress!
Ingredients
Chocolate Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as chocolate graham crackers or Oreos without filling)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cherry Layer:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
Chocolate Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Crust: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of the pan.
- Make the Cherry Layer: Combine sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and chopped cherries. Spread over the crust.
- Create the Chocolate Topping: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil, then pour over the cherry layer.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until set. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Pat cherries dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
- Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
