Chocolate Covered Cherries

Homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. These sweet and chocolatey bites are perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or simply as a delightful dessert. With their rich chocolate coating and luscious cherry filling, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout choice for any celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Making chocolate covered cherries is a simple process that takes about 60 minutes of prep time.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet cherries paired with rich chocolate create an irresistible flavor combination that everyone loves.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or as gifts; these candies fit any sweet occasion.
• Fun to Make: Involve family members in the creation process for a fun bonding experience in the kitchen.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or add flavors to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making chocolate covered cherries, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Double boiler
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Double boiler: This tool is crucial for melting chocolate evenly without scorching it, ensuring a smooth coating for your cherries.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool the cherries after dipping them in chocolate, preventing sticking.

Ingredients

For the Cherries

• 40-60 maraschino cherries

For the Filling

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons corn syrup

For the Chocolate Coating

• 1 pound dipping chocolate
• 1 pound semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon shortening (or coconut oil)

How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherries

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, butter, and corn syrup.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Take one maraschino cherry at a time and coat it with the filling mixture.
4. Place each filled cherry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Chill the Cherries

1. Once all cherries are filled, place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to help firm up the filling.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

1. Set up your double boiler by bringing water to a simmer in the lower pot.
2. Add dipping chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and shortening in the upper pot.
3. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Dip Each Cherry

1. Remove filled cherries from the fridge.
2. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each cherry into the melted chocolate mixture until fully coated.
3. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Set and Enjoy

1. Let dipped cherries sit at room temperature until set or refrigerate for quicker results.
2. Serve them fresh or package them beautifully for gifting!

Enjoy your homemade chocolate covered cherries, an indulgent treat that’s perfect for sharing!

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherries

Chocolate covered cherries are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cherry cordials are perfect for any occasion.

As a Dessert Platter

• Create a beautiful dessert platter by arranging chocolate covered cherries alongside other sweets like cookies and brownies. This adds variety and makes for an eye-catching display.

In Gift Baskets

• Package chocolate covered cherries in decorative boxes or baskets. They make a thoughtful gift for friends and family, especially during the holidays.

With Ice Cream

• Serve chocolate covered cherries over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This combination creates a delicious contrast between the cold ice cream and the rich chocolate.

For Special Occasions

• Use chocolate covered cherries as a festive addition to party tables at events like birthdays or anniversaries. Their vibrant color and taste will impress guests.

Paired with Wine

• Enjoy chocolate covered cherries alongside a glass of red wine. The flavors complement each other beautifully, making for an elegant pairing.

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How to Perfect Chocolate Covered Cherries

Making perfect chocolate covered cherries requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your candy-making skills.

• Use quality ingredients: Choose high-quality chocolate and fresh cherries for the best flavor.
• Chill the cherries: Refrigerate maraschino cherries before dipping them in chocolate. This helps the coating firm up better.
• Melt chocolate properly: Use a double boiler or microwave to melt your chocolate gently, preventing it from burning.
• Work quickly: Dip each cherry swiftly into the melted chocolate before it cools down, ensuring an even coating.
• Allow adequate drying time: Let chocolate covered cherries sit until fully set on parchment paper, so they don’t stick.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Covered Cherries

When serving chocolate covered cherries, pairing them with complementary side dishes enhances the overall experience. Here are some great side dishes to consider:

1. Cheese Platter: A mix of soft and hard cheeses balances sweetness with savory flavors.
2. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits like strawberries and kiwi add freshness that pairs well with sweet chocolate.
3. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix provides texture and contrasts beautifully with the soft cherries.
4. Mini Cheesecakes: These rich desserts harmonize well with the fruity flavors of the cherries.
5. Panna Cotta: The creamy texture of panna cotta complements the richness of chocolate covered cherries.
6. Coffee or Espresso: A hot beverage enhances the overall indulgence while balancing sweetness with bitterness.
7. Chocolate Fondue: For more fun, serve alongside warm melted chocolate for dipping additional fruits or marshmallows.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chocolate Covered Cherries can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using wet cherries: Ensure your maraschino cherries are thoroughly dried before dipping. Excess moisture can prevent the chocolate from adhering properly.
• Skipping the chilling step: Don’t forget to chill the cherries after coating them in fondant. This helps the chocolate set better and keeps your treats firm.
• Not tempering chocolate: If you’re using real chocolate, temper it first. This ensures a glossy finish and a satisfying snap when bitten into.
• Overheating chocolate: Heat your chocolate gently. Overheating can cause it to seize and become unusable. Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts.
• Ignoring storage tips: Store your finished cherries in an airtight container at room temperature. Storing them in the refrigerator can cause the chocolate to sweat.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week.

Freezing Chocolate Covered Cherries

• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Reheating Chocolate Covered Cherries

• Oven: Preheat to 200°F (93°C). Place cherries on a baking sheet for 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a low power setting and heat in 10-second intervals until just warm.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler with water simmering gently, and warm cherries briefly while stirring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Covered Cherries.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

You can use fresh cherries, but they need to be pitted and dried well for best results.

How do I make my own chocolate coating?

Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips with shortening over low heat until smooth for a quick homemade coating.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding almond extract or vanilla extract into the fondant mixture for added depth of flavor.

How should I serve Chocolate Covered Cherries?

These treats are perfect for gifting during holidays or as delightful additions to dessert platters at parties.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries are not only delicious, but also versatile for various occasions. You can customize them with different flavors or coatings, making them perfect for gifts or personal indulgence. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!