Dark Chocolate Cherry Oat Bars
These bars hit different than regular brownies. The tart cherries cut through rich dark chocolate while oats add this perfect chewy texture.
You’ll get fudgy squares that aren’t too sweet. They hold together beautifully for lunch boxes or afternoon snacks.
Why Dark Chocolate Percentage Matters
Use 70% dark chocolate for the best balance. Higher percentages turn bitter against the tart cherries. Lower percentages get lost in the mix. Chop your chocolate bar instead of using chips – the irregular pieces create better pockets of melted chocolate throughout each bar.
Shop Our Must-Haves
Press That Oat Layer Down
Really pack the bottom oat layer with your hands or a measuring cup. Loose oats create crumbly bars that fall apart when you cut them. The top layer gets pressed lightly – you want some texture contrast between the dense bottom and slightly crumbly chocolate top.
Cherry Moisture Creates Problems
Pat dried cherries with paper towels before mixing them in. Even "dried" cherries hold moisture that makes bars soggy. Toss the patted cherries in a tablespoon of flour to coat them. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Getting Clean Bar Cuts
- Chill bars for 30 minutes before cutting – cold chocolate cuts cleaner without dragging through the oat layers.
- Wipe your knife between cuts with a damp cloth to prevent chocolate buildup that creates ragged edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will fresh cranberries work instead of dried cherries?
Fresh cranberries release too much moisture and turn very tart when baked. Stick with dried cherries or try dried cranberries for similar results.
How long do these bars stay fresh?
Store covered at room temperature for up to 5 days. The oats actually improve in texture after the first day as they absorb moisture from the chocolate.
Should I use quick oats or old-fashioned?
Old-fashioned oats give better texture and don’t turn mushy. Quick oats break down too much during baking and create a dense, heavy bar.
Trending Now
Dark Chocolate Cherry Oat Bars
Ingredients
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
Instructions
- Prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare cherries: Pat dried cherries dry with paper towels, then toss with 1 tablespoon flour to coat. Set aside.
- Make oat mixture: Mix oats, 1 cup flour, brown sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Pour melted butter over mixture and stir until evenly combined.
- Form bottom layer: Press ⅔ of the oat mixture firmly into prepared pan using your hands or bottom of a measuring cup. Reserve remaining mixture.
- Make chocolate ganache: Heat cream and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Add chocolate layer: Stir floured cherries into chocolate mixture. Pour evenly over oat base and spread to edges.
- Top with oats: Sprinkle reserved oat mixture over chocolate layer, pressing lightly with your fingertips.
- Bake and cool: Bake 25-28 minutes until edges are golden brown and center is just set. Cool completely in pan before cutting into 16 squares.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1 bar)
