Indulge in the delightful simplicity of Chocolate Covered Cherries, a treat that effortlessly combines sweetness and richness. This isn't just a recipe; it's a quick escape to pure bliss. Imagine biting into a juicy cherry, enveloped in decadent chocolate – a burst of flavor that surprises and satisfies. These are surprisingly healthy(ish!) and incredibly simple, perfect for when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Just like my grandma used to make!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Every year, during the holiday season, my aunt would bring a huge platter of Chocolate Covered Cherries. As kids, we would sneak them whenever we thought nobody was looking. The combination of the sweet cherry and the rich chocolate has always brought back such fond memories. Now, I make my own to share with my kids and keep the sweet tradition alive!
Ingredients
-
For the Cherry Mixture
- 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, with stems
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
-
For the Chocolate Coating
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (or your favorite chocolate)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or vegetable shortening, optional, for shine)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Prepare the Cherries: Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels; this is crucial for the chocolate to adhere properly.
- Make the Filling (Optional) : Place the patted dry cherries, powdered sugar, softened butter and almond extract in a food processor, then pulse until a thick consistent mixture is formed.
- Shape the cherries: Take the cherry mixtures into a spoon and mold it back to cherry shape. Arrange the cherries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill the Cherries: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm up the cherries. This will make them easier to dip.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) until smooth. Stir frequently to prevent burning. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Dip the Cherries: Hold a cherry by its stem and dip it into the melted chocolate. Ensure the entire cherry is coated. Remove and let any excess chocolate drip off.
- Set on Parchment: Place the dipped cherry back onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Harden the Chocolate: Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once the chocolate is firm, your homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries are ready to be served. Enjoy them straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat!
Chocolate Covered Cherries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Cherries: Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels; this is crucial for the chocolate to adhere properly.10 ounce maraschino cherries, with stems
- Make the Filling (Optional) : Place the patted dry cherries, powdered sugar, softened butter and almond extract in a food processor, then pulse until a thick consistent mixture is formed.10 ounce maraschino cherries, with stems, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons butter, 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- Shape the cherries: Take the cherry mixtures into a spoon and mold it back to cherry shape. Arrange the cherries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill the Cherries: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm up the cherries. This will make them easier to dip.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) until smooth. Stir frequently to prevent burning. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- Dip the Cherries: Hold a cherry by its stem and dip it into the melted chocolate. Ensure the entire cherry is coated. Remove and let any excess chocolate drip off.
- Set on Parchment: Place the dipped cherry back onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Harden the Chocolate: Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once the chocolate is firm, your homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries are ready to be served. Enjoy them straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat!