Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) margarine, at room temperature 1/2 cup SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Sweetener Blend 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons cornstarch 1/8 teaspoon salt 11.5 ounces dark chocolate chips 3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries, juices drained Directions: Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with parchment paper or leave ungreased if not using paper. In a large bowl, cream together margarine and SPLENDA® Naturals for 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and almond extract, beating until well incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed and continue mixing until combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips. Drain and chop the maraschino cherries, gently squeezing out excess juice, then carefully fold them into the dough. Evenly spread the dough into the prepared baking dish using a spatula. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let the bars cool completely, then refrigerate for an hour to allow them to set. Once chilled, lift the parchment paper from the dish and cut the bars into 48 squares. Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including cooling time) Kcal: 120 kcal per bar Servings: 48 bars These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are the perfect blend of dark chocolate richness and bright, sweet maraschino cherries. The soft, buttery shortbread base melts in your mouth, while the chocolate chips add an extra layer of indulgence. With just the right balance of sweetness and texture, these bars are an irresistible treat for any occasion. Not only are they delicious, but these shortbread bars are made healthier with SPLENDA® Naturals, offering a reduced-calorie option without compromising on flavor. Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, family dinners, or enjoying with a cup of coffee, these bars are sure to impress!
