Chocolate Covered Cherries

These delightful Chocolate Covered Cherries are a perfect treat for any celebration or holiday. They combine the sweetness of maraschino cherries with a rich chocolate coating, making them an irresistible dessert. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these homemade candies are sure to impress. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them not only delicious but also visually appealing, adding elegance to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for beginners or anyone short on time.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrap these chocolate-covered delights in a decorative box, and you have a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or toppings for a personalized twist!
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or just because, these treats are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy chocolate finish and bright red cherries make this dessert look as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spilling.
• Hand mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth texture in the fondant mixture quickly.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper ensures that your chocolate-covered cherries don’t stick when cooling.

Ingredients

These homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries feature maraschino cherries wrapped in sweet fondant and dipped in rich chocolate for a classic treat.

Ingredients:
– 1 jar maraschino cherries with stems (16 ounces or about 25 cherries, with the juice reserved)
– 4 cups powdered sugar (390-520 grams, divided)
– 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
– 16 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (or a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate)
– Red candy melting wafers for drizzling

How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherries

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Drain the maraschino cherries while reserving at least 1/4 cup of the juice. Place the cherries on paper towels to absorb excess juice. Gently dab them dry; this step is crucial for ensuring they hold together well during dipping.

Step 2: Make the Fondant Mixture

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to combine 3 cups of powdered sugar, softened butter, and 1/4 cup reserved cherry juice. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated. Gradually add the remaining cup of powdered sugar, about 1/4 cup at a time, until you form a soft dough. Refrigerate this mixture for 20 minutes to firm it up.

Step 3: Shape the Cherries

Dust your hands with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Pinch off enough fondant to form a 1 1/2-inch ball. Flatten it between your palms and place one dried cherry in the center. Carefully fold the fondant around it until completely enclosed. Roll between your palms to create a smooth ball.

Step 4: Chill Before Dipping

Place the fondant-covered cherries on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for another 20 minutes to firm up before dipping them into chocolate.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

While the cherries chill, melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second increments. Stir well between each interval until smooth. Be cautious not to burn or seize the chocolate during melting.

Step 6: Dip the Cherries

Hold each cherry by its stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, ensuring complete coverage. Allow excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl before placing dipped cherries on a baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment paper.

Step 7: Add Decorative Drizzle (Optional)

If desired, melt red candy wafers according to package instructions and drizzle over your chocolate-covered cherries for added decoration.

Step 8: Let Them Set

Allow the chocolate-coated cherries to set completely at room temperature. Once set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.

Enjoy indulging in these delightful Chocolate Covered Cherries!

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherries

Chocolate Covered Cherries make for a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging yourself, these cherries can be served in numerous appealing styles.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange chocolate covered cherries on a beautiful platter alongside other desserts. This creates an inviting display perfect for gatherings.

With Ice Cream

• Serve chocolate covered cherries on top of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The combination of flavors and textures will elevate any dessert experience.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual chocolate covered cherries in decorative bags tied with ribbons. These make charming and delicious gifts for guests at special events.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair your chocolate covered cherries with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast. The fruity flavors complement each other nicely.

In a Cocktail

• Use chocolate covered cherries as a garnish for cocktails like indulgent martinis or bourbon drinks. They add a sweet touch that enhances your drink’s appeal.

As Toppings for Cakes

• Chop up chocolate covered cherries and sprinkle them over cakes or cupcakes. This adds both flavor and an attractive finish to your baked goods.

How to Perfect Chocolate Covered Cherries

To ensure your Chocolate Covered Cherries turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips.

• Choose Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for the best flavor and smoothness in dipping.
• Dry Cherries Thoroughly: Make sure the maraschino cherries are completely dry before wrapping them in fondant to prevent slipping during dipping.
• Control Chocolate Temperature: Melt the chocolate slowly to avoid burning. Maintaining a lower temperature helps achieve a glossy finish.
• Refrigerate Before Dipping: Chill the fondant-covered cherries before dipping to help them hold their shape better when coating with chocolate.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup after setting.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles after dipping to create unique variations of your chocolate covered cherries.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Covered Cherries

When serving Chocolate Covered Cherries, pairing them with the right side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses like brie, cheddar, and gouda pairs well, balancing the sweetness of the cherries.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with citrus fruits complements the richness of the chocolate.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Serve alongside light and airy chocolate mousse for an indulgent dessert duo that lovers of chocolate will enjoy.
4. Pound Cake: Slices of moist pound cake provide a great base to enjoy along with these cherry treats.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the flavors of both the drink and the chocolates.
6. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy vanilla yogurt offers a light option that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of chocolate covered cherries.
7. Nut Mix: A crunchy mix of nuts adds texture and balances out the soft, sweet nature of the cherries.
8. Whipped Cream: Simple whipped cream on the side allows guests to enjoy their cherry treat even more decadently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chocolate Covered Cherries can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using wet cherries: Wet maraschino cherries can cause the fondant to slide off. Make sure to thoroughly dry the cherries after draining them.
• Not chilling the fondant: Skipping the refrigeration step of the fondant mixture can result in a sticky dough that’s hard to shape. Always chill it for at least 20 minutes.
• Overheating chocolate: Melting chocolate too quickly can lead to burning or seizing. Use low power and short increments in the microwave for best results.
• Inconsistent dipping technique: Dipping cherries unevenly can lead to messy coatings. Ensure you dip them completely and let excess chocolate drip off before placing on paper.
• Skipping decoration: Leaving your chocolate covered cherries plain may make them look less appealing. Consider drizzling with colored candy melts for an attractive finish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your chocolate covered cherries in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Covered Cherries

• Place the cherries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Chocolate Covered Cherries

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place cherries on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes, just enough to soften slightly.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 5-10 seconds at a time. Be careful not to overheat, as this can ruin the chocolate coating.
• Stovetop: This method is not recommended since it can lead to uneven heating and potential melting of the chocolate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Chocolate Covered Cherries last?

Chocolate covered cherries typically last about one week when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Chocolate Covered Cherries?

Yes! You can add various toppings such as crushed nuts or sprinkles, or even use different types of chocolate like white or milk chocolate.

What type of chocolate is best for Chocolate Covered Cherries?

Semi-sweet chocolate works well, but you can also mix it with dark chocolate for a richer flavor or opt for milk chocolate if you prefer something sweeter.

Are Chocolate Covered Cherries gluten-free?

Yes, these candies are gluten-free as they primarily consist of maraschino cherries, fondant, and chocolate.

Final Thoughts

These homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries are not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different chocolates and toppings according to your taste. Whether you’re making them for a holiday treat or just because, they’re sure to impress! Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet combination of flavors and textures.