Cherry Bounty Bars Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth that craves a perfect balance of fruity brightness, tropical coconut goodness, and luscious chocolate, then you’re going to fall head over heels for these Cherry Bounty Bars. They are a no-bake marvel that brings together the tartness of cherry purée with the chewy texture of desiccated coconut, all enveloped in a shiny coat of dark chocolate. Whether you want a guilt-free snack or an impressive treat to share, these bars are bursting with flavor and so simple to make that they quickly become a favorite indulgence. Get ready to dive into the delicious world of Cherry Bounty Bars!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, creating that iconic chewy, fruity, and chocolatey combination. They’re straightforward pantry staples, yet together they form an irresistible medley of flavor and texture that’s anything but ordinary.

• 1 cup desiccated coconut: Provides that chewy, tropical base with a lovely texture that holds everything together.
• ½ cup cherry purée: Uses fresh or frozen cherries blended to bring a vibrant fruity tang and natural sweetness.
• 2 tbsp maple syrup: Adds a deep, mellow sweetness while keeping the bars naturally sweetened.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm, aromatic note that complements both cherry and coconut.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the other flavors beautifully.
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips: For coating—rich, slightly bitter chocolate that contrasts perfectly with the chewy interior.
• 1 tbsp coconut oil: Helps melt the chocolate smoothly and gives the coating a glossy, professional finish.

How to Make Cherry Bounty Bars

Step 1: Mix the Coconut and Cherry Purée

Start by combining the desiccated coconut, cherry purée, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir everything until the mixture becomes sticky and well combined. The cherry purée brings a lovely red tint and juicy zing, while the coconut gives you that signature chew; together they form the heart of your Cherry Bounty Bars.

Step 2: Shape the Bars

Once the mixture is sticky enough, shape it into rectangular bars or bite-sized pieces—whatever you prefer! Place them evenly on a tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This hands-on step is fun and lets you get creative with the size and shape of your bars.

Step 3: Freeze Until Firm

Pop your shaped bars into the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step is key because it helps the bars firm up enough to handle the chocolate coating without falling apart. Patience here pays off with a perfect texture later.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate and Coconut Oil

While the bars are chilling, gently melt the dark chocolate chips with the coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently. The coconut oil not only smooths the chocolate but also gives the final bars a professional sheen that looks as good as they taste.

Step 5: Dip and Coat the Bars

Remove the bars from the freezer and carefully dip each one into the melted chocolate, ensuring they’re fully coated. Use a fork or skewer to lift them out, allowing excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. This step is where your Cherry Bounty Bars really start to shine—each bite is a perfect harmony of chewy fruitiness and silky chocolate.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Place the chocolate-coated bars back on the parchment-lined tray and return them to the fridge or freezer to set. In about 15-20 minutes, the chocolate will harden, sealing in all the delicious flavors and textures that make Cherry Bounty Bars so addictive.

How to Serve Cherry Bounty Bars

Garnishes

To elevate your Cherry Bounty Bars, dust them lightly with a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a few finely chopped dried cherries. These simple garnishes add an extra pop of color and texture that makes your bars look like they came straight from a boutique patisserie.

Side Dishes

Serve these bars alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option that balances fruity freshness with rich creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, arrange your Cherry Bounty Bars on a decorative platter with fresh cherries and coconut flakes scattered around. Wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift. Serving them this way turns a simple snack into an unforgettable experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Cherry Bounty Bars (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep their freshness and texture for up to one week. The cool fridge helps maintain the chocolate coating’s integrity while keeping the chewy center just right.

Freezing

These bars freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They stay delicious for up to three months and are great for easy snacking on busy days.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen bar, simply let it thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Avoid heating in the microwave as it can melt the chocolate unevenly. Thawing naturally keeps the bars intact and ready to delight your taste buds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for the cherry purée?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully for the purée. Simply thaw them slightly before blending to ensure a smooth, vibrant base for your bars.

Is it possible to substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use honey, agave nectar, or even a mild coconut nectar if preferred. Just remember that the flavor may shift slightly, so choose alternatives that you enjoy.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Definitely. Milk chocolate will make the bars sweeter and creamier, which some may prefer. Just choose a good quality chocolate for the best results.

How long do Cherry Bounty Bars stay fresh at room temperature?

Because of their coconut content and chocolate coating, it’s best to keep them refrigerated or frozen. At room temperature, they may soften too much after a few hours and lose their shape.

Are these bars suitable for vegans?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan, especially if you use maple syrup and check that your chocolate chips contain no dairy. They’re a wonderful plant-based treat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fresh and fun way to enjoy a no-bake treat that bursts with flavor and texture, you simply must try these Cherry Bounty Bars. They are incredibly easy to whip up, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion where a little sweetness is welcome. Once you taste the lovely cherry note combined with chewy coconut and smooth dark chocolate, these bars will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection—enjoy every bite!