why make this recipe
Cherry ripe bars are a delightful treat that combine the natural sweetness of cherries with the rich, creamy texture of chocolate and coconut. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still keeping things a bit healthier. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a chewy texture and delicious flavor that can brighten any day. Plus, they are vegan and can be stored for later, making them a fantastic snack option!
how to make Cherry ripe bars
Ingredients:
- 500 g / 17.5 oz ripe cherries, pitted
- 10 ml / 2 tsp vanilla extract, optional
- 100 g / ½ cup sugar*
- 250 g / 8.8 oz (approx. 3 cups) desiccated* coconut
- 37 g / 3 tbsp coconut oil or vegan butter, divided
- Pinch of fine salt
- 200 g / 7 oz vegan dark chocolate*
Directions:
- Place pitted cherries, sugar, and vanilla (if using) in a medium size pot.
- Set the pot on low heat and stir frequently until the cherries release their juices to prevent scorching.
- Allow the cherries to simmer gently until the fruit softens and the liquid thickens into a syrup. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on how juicy your cherries are. Stir occasionally and let cool.
- Once cooled, transfer the cherries and their juices to a food processor. Add desiccated coconut, 2 tablespoons (25 g) of coconut oil, and salt. Pulse a few times until you have a homogenous and sticky mixture.
- Line a tray or two (you can use two 20 cm / 8" x 10 cm / 4" banana bread tins) with baking paper.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of your tin(s), making them as thin or thick as you like. Typically, a height of about 1.25 cm / 0.5" works well.
- Freeze the mixture for 2-3 hours to make it easier to slice into bars.
- Gently melt the broken chocolate and remaining 1 tablespoon (12 g) of coconut oil in a bowl over a water bath.
- Once melted, take the cherry slab out of the freezer and cut it into bars of your desired size. A size of 10 cm / 4" long and 4 cm / 1.5" wide is a good option.
- Dip each bar in the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off and placing them aside. Once the chocolate is no longer wet, return the bars to the freezer. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
how to serve Cherry ripe bars
Cherry ripe bars can be enjoyed straight from the freezer. You can slice them into smaller pieces for a quick bite or serve them as a dessert after dinner. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon treat.
how to store Cherry ripe bars
To keep your Cherry ripe bars fresh, store them in the freezer. Make sure they are in an airtight container or wrapped well to prevent freezer burn. They can last for up to a month in the freezer, so you can always have a delicious treat on hand!
tips to make Cherry ripe bars
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sugar amount based on your taste preferences and the sweetness of the cherries.
- If you prefer a stronger coconut flavor, you can add more desiccated coconut.
- Make sure to melt the chocolate slowly to avoid burning it.
variation
You can add nuts or dried fruits to the mixture for extra texture and flavor. Almonds or hazelnuts would pair well with the chocolate and cherries. You can also use other types of fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a different twist on this recipe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before cooking.
Is there a non-vegan version of this recipe?
Yes, you can use regular butter and milk chocolate instead of vegan options if you’re not following a vegan diet.
How long do these bars last outside the freezer?
They can be kept at room temperature for a couple of hours but are best kept in the freezer to maintain their texture and freshness.
