Description
Delicious Homemade Cherry Mash Bars combine a rich, creamy cherry-flavored center with a smooth peanut butter and chocolate topping. These bars are a nostalgic treat featuring melted marshmallows, cherry chips, and a crunchy peanut crust, perfect for dessert or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cherry Mash Base
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- â…” cup evaporated milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 12 large marshmallows
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 6 ounces cherry chips (or substitute with 6 ounces white almond bark, 1 teaspoon cherry extract, and red food coloring)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (omit if using cherry extract)
For the Topping
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup salted peanuts, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Mash Base: In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, salt, marshmallows, unsalted butter, and cherry chips (or the white almond bark with cherry extract and red food coloring). Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to ensure the sugar dissolves and the ingredients melt smoothly together.
- Cook until Smooth and Thickened: Continue stirring the mixture until it becomes smooth and thickened, resembling a creamy, cherry-flavored candy base. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
- Add Flavoring: Stir in the vanilla extract if you are using cherry chips; if you substituted with cherry extract, skip this step. Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors evenly.
- Transfer to Pan and Cool: Pour the cherry mash mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature until it sets enough to hold its shape, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare and Add the Topping: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Pour this chocolate peanut butter mixture evenly over the set cherry mash base. Sprinkle the crushed salted peanuts evenly on top, pressing lightly to adhere. Let the bars cool completely, then cut into approximately 24 squares before serving.
Notes
- For the cherry chips substitute, add red food coloring gradually until you reach the desired cherry color.
- Using salted peanuts adds a nice contrast to the sweetness; you can adjust saltiness by using unsalted peanuts and seasoning to taste.
- Make sure to stir constantly when cooking the cherry mash base to avoid burning the sugar and ensure smooth texture.
- If you prefer a firmer bar, chill the pan in the refrigerator after assembling before cutting.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
