Cherry ripe slice

Cherry Ripe Slice

This Cherry Ripe Slice combines a chocolate coconut crust, sweet cherry coconut filling, and a rich chocolate topping. Inspired by the flavors of a Cherry Ripe candy bar, this easy no-fuss dessert is perfect for parties, bake sales, holiday trays, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Chocolate Coconut Base

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
• 250 grams (1 cup) butter
• 3/4 cup sugar

Cherry Filling

• 200 grams shredded coconut
• 1 (14-ounce/400 gram) can sweetened condensed milk
• 200 grams glace cherries, chopped
• 3 to 4 drops red food coloring (optional)

Chocolate Topping

• 200 grams dark chocolate
• 25 grams copha or 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and shredded coconut.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter and sugar together over low heat until combined.
5. Pour the butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until evenly mixed.
6. Press firmly into the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 15 minutes.
8. Remove from oven and cool completely.
9. To make the filling, combine coconut, condensed milk, chopped cherries, and food coloring if using.
10. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
11. Melt the dark chocolate and copha together in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.
12. Stir until smooth.
13. Pour over the cherry filling and spread evenly.
14. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until firm.
15. Cut into squares and serve.

Yield: 20 to 24 squares