Chewy chocolate chip bars studded with sweet maraschino cherries—perfect for dessert or snacking anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Chewy and soft — the perfect chocolate chip bar texture.
• Cherry-chocolate combo — sweet maraschino cherries add a fun twist.
• Easy to make — simple ingredients and minimal steps.
• Great for sharing — perfect for parties, bake sales, or family treats.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Gently fold in chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Bake

Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Tips & Variations

• Pat cherries dry to prevent excess moisture from affecting the bars.
• Add chopped nuts for extra crunch.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake and cool the bars, then store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze them?
Yes, cut into bars and wrap individually. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use dried cherries instead?
Yes, substitute maraschino cherries with dried cherries for a less sweet option.

Final Thoughts

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are chewy, sweet, and perfectly balanced with chocolate and cherry flavors — a fun and festive twist on classic cookie bars!