Name: Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour: For structure. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor.; 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is key; consider using coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise.; 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.; 1 cup cherry cola: The star ingredient! Diet cola can be used for a lower-calorie version.; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: For moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.; 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients; flaxseed meal can be used for a vegan alternative.; 1 cup chopped cherries: Fresh or frozen, they add a burst of flavor.

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how a simple can of cola can transform a dessert into a delightful experience? The secret lies in the unique combination of flavors that create an irresistible treat. Today, we’re diving into the world of Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars, a dessert that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a fun twist to your baking repertoire. With rich chocolate, tart cherries, and the fizzy essence of cola, these bars are sure to impress at any gathering. Let’s explore how to make this delectable dessert that balances sweetness and a hint of nostalgia.

Ingredients List

Creating Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars requires just a handful of ingredients, each contributing to the overall flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour: For structure. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is key; consider using coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
1 cup cherry cola: The star ingredient! Diet cola can be used for a lower-calorie version.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: For moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

1 large egg: Binds the ingredients; flaxseed meal can be used for a vegan alternative.
1 cup chopped cherries: Fresh or frozen, they add a burst of flavor.

Timing

Preparing Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars is quick and easy! Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

This is approximately 20% less time than the average cake recipe, making it a perfect choice for last-minute gatherings or sweet cravings!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, fudgy texture without sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt. This combination creates the foundation for your cake bars.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the cherry cola, melted butter, and egg until well combined. The effervescence of the cola will help create a light texture in the finished bars.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense bars.

Step 6: Fold in the Cherries

Gently fold in the chopped cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Their tartness will balance the sweetness of the chocolate.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 12 servings):

Calories: 150
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g

This delicious dessert offers a balanced treat without overwhelming your diet.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars even healthier, consider these modifications:

Flour Substitute: Use almond flour or oat flour for gluten-free options.
Sugar Alternatives: Swap granulated sugar for maple syrup or honey to reduce refined sugars.
Butter Alternative: Use unsweetened applesauce instead of butter to cut down on fat while maintaining moisture.

Add-ins: Incorporate nuts or seeds for added texture and nutrition.

These adjustments will keep the flavor profile intact while making the dessert suitable for various dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars, consider these serving suggestions:

Ice Cream Pairing: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Drizzle: Top with a chocolate ganache or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and cherry cola.
Garnish: Add fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Presentation: Serve on a decorative platter with fresh cherries scattered around for a visually appealing display.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars, avoid these common pitfalls:

Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to tough bars; mix just until combined.

Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting into the bars too soon can result in a gooey mess.
Using Old Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for optimal rise.

By being mindful of these mistakes, you’ll achieve perfect bars every time!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars fresh, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Refrigeration: For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Conclusion

In summary, Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with the fizzy essence of cola and tart cherries. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress. We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Can I use diet cola in this recipe?

Yes, using diet cola can reduce the calorie count while still providing the fizzy flavor.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bars are ready.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added for extra texture and flavor.

How should I store leftover bars?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Chocolate Cherry Cola Cake Bars

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes