These delicious bars are based on a candy found mainly in the Midwest. Also known as Twin Bings or Cherry Mash, these unexpected flavors combine for a sweet treat
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients until well incorporated
Using the back of a measuring cup, press firmly into a 13X9” baking dish
Bake for 15 minutes and let cool while you make the filling
For the Filling:
In a large microwave safe bowl, melt together chocolate and peanut butter for about 90 seconds, stirring well at 30 second intervals
Stir in chopped peanuts and spread half of the mixture into the 9x13 inch pan, reserving the rest for later
In a very heavy saucepan over medium-high heat combine condensed milk, marshmallows and butter. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly (it will scorch very quickly), and boil for 5 minutes
Add cherry chips and stir until completely melted
Stir in cherries and emulsion
Pour over the chocolate in the pan and spread evenly
Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes
Reheat the remaining chocolate for about 30 seconds, and stir well
Spread the remaining chocolate over the cherry mixture and chill until firm (several hours or over night)
Remove from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving and cut with a hot knife.
Notes
Do not substitute marshmallow creme for the marshmallows. The added egg whites and lack of cornstarch will give the bars a different texture.
I prefer using emulsion in this recipe rather than extract because it holds up to the high heat better. But you can use the same amount of cherry extract as you would the emulsion if that’s all you have.