Description
Homemade Cherry Mash Bars combine a rich, gooey cherry-flavored base with a decadent chocolate and peanut topping. This nostalgic treat features layers of melted cherry chips and marshmallows topped with a smooth peanut butter-chocolate mixture studded with crunchy salted peanuts, all set in a 9×13-inch pan and chilled to perfection.
Ingredients
Cherry Layer
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ⅔ 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)
Chocolate-Peanut Layer
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup salted peanuts, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the bars release easily once set.
- Make the Cherry Layer: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, salt, marshmallows, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes to achieve the right consistency without burning.
- Add Cherry Flavor: Remove the pan from heat and add the cherry chips (or the almond bark substitute with cherry extract and red food coloring). Stir thoroughly until fully melted and smooth. Add vanilla extract if not using cherry extract, mixing well.
- Set the Cherry Layer: Pour the warm cherry mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature to set firmly.
- Prepare the Chocolate-Peanut Layer: Using a double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring occasionally until smooth. Stir in the creamy peanut butter until fully blended.
- Add Peanuts: Fold in the crushed salted peanuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the chocolate-peanut mixture.
- Assemble the Bars: Once the cherry layer has completely set, pour the chocolate-peanut mixture over it and spread evenly to cover the entire surface of the pan.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2 hours or until the top layer is firm and well set.
- Serve: After chilling, cut the bars into squares and serve chilled. Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator.
Notes
- The cherry chips can be replaced with a white almond bark and cherry extract combination for similar flavor and color.
- Be careful not to burn the sugar mixture; stir constantly while boiling.
- Use salted peanuts for added flavor contrast; unsalted can be substituted if preferred.
- Bars are best stored refrigerated and consumed within 5 days.
- For easier cleanup, line the baking pan with parchment paper or foil before greasing.
