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Fudgy Black Forest Bars

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Fudgy Black Forest Bars combine rich chocolate flavor with the tartness of cherries for a decadent dessert. With a fudgy brownie-like texture and bursts of cherry filling, these easy-to-make bars are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • For the Batter:

    • 1 cup salted butter, softened
    • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 4 large eggs
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably dark or triple chocolate)
    • 1 large dark chocolate bar, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • For the Topping:

    • 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
    • 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

Prepare the Batter:

  1. Preheat Oven – Set to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. Cream Butter & Sugar – In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until creamy.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients – Mix in vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

  1. Whisk Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder.
  2. Incorporate into Batter – Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  3. Add Chocolate Chunks – Gently fold in chopped dark chocolate.

Assemble & Bake:

  1. Spread Batter – Evenly spread the batter into the prepared pan.
  2. Add Cherry Filling – Spoon cherry pie filling over the batter and gently spread it out.
  3. Bake – Bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Cool & Serve – Let bars cool completely in the pan. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired, slice, and serve.

Notes

  • Variations: Add nuts, substitute blueberry or raspberry filling, or enhance flavor with a tablespoon of cherry liqueur.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap cooled bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a gooey texture