September 27, 2024
Review RecipeChocolate Covered Cherries
This no-fail recipe for chocolate covered cherries makes a ton of sweet treats that are easy to make. Made with maraschino cherries, a powdered sugar dough, and rich chocolate coating.
Jump to Recipe
Table of Contents
- Chocolate Covered Cherries Recipe Ingredients
- Substitutions and Additions for Cherries Dipped in Chocolate
- How To Make This Chocolate Covered Cherries Recipe
- Troubleshooting
- How To Serve Homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries
- How To Store Chocolate-Covered Cherries
- Why These Chocolate Covered Cherries Are The Best
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Cherry Recipes You’ll Love
- JUMP TO RECIPE
These chocolate covered cherries are anything but ordinary! The secret is in the homemade fondant-like dough that wraps each cherry, providing a perfectly sweet contrast to the rich chocolate almond bark coating. The use of maraschino cherries adds a juicy burst of flavor, making this recipe a step above the store-bought version and a fun, easy homemade treat for the holidays or special occasions.
Why This Recipe
MAIN INGREDIENTS: maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, salted butter, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, almond extract, chocolate almond bark
QUICK STEPS: make powdered sugar dough, wrap cherries in dough, dip cherries in melted chocolate, chill and drizzle with extra chocolate if desired
TOTAL TIME AND YIELD: 40 minutes, makes 32-36 chocolate covered cherries
PRO TIP: If your powdered sugar dough gets too dry or starts to crumble, you can try kneading it back together. If necessary, add a few drops more corn syrup to the dough as you knead it.
WHY THIS RECIPE: This recipe’s standout feature is its powdered sugar dough. Unlike recipes that call for complicated fondants, this dough comes together quickly with just a few basic ingredients, and its smooth, pliable texture makes wrapping the cherries effortless.
The dough holds up beautifully to the chocolate coating, adding an extra layer of sweetness that enhances the overall flavor without being overly sugary.
Chocolate Covered Cherries Recipe Ingredients
Get ready to make the best recipe for luscious chocolate covered cherries! They’re the perfect chocolate treat for a party, a romantic night in, or to give as a gift for a friend. With a quick prep time and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time.
You’ll Need:
- 1 (10 ounce) container maraschino cherries with stems, cherry juice drained, and patted dry
- 2 ¼ cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 12 ounces chocolate almond bark, broken into smaller chunks
Substitutions and Additions for Cherries Dipped in Chocolate
Maraschino Cherries: If you prefer a less sweet option, you can use fresh cherries. These will give a different texture and a more natural cherry flavor but may not provide the same decadent juiciness of maraschino cherries.
Powdered Sugar: If you’re out of confectioners’ sugar, try making your own. Blend granulated sugar in a high-powdered blender until it becomes a fine powder.
Light Corn Syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute for light corn syrup. These alternatives will keep the dough soft but may add a different taste.
Almond Extract: If you’re not a fan of almond flavor, you can skip it or replace it with an additional ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Chocolate Almond Bark: You can use white chocolate, dark chocolate chips, or even milk chocolate instead of chocolate almond bark. Candy melt wafers in any color can also be used to add a fun and festive touch to your cherries.
How To Make This Chocolate Covered Cherries Recipe
Making chocolate covered cherries at home is a fun process, especially when you have an easy recipe to follow. Our step-by-step guide will help you create these delightful treats with ease.
STEP ONE: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Drain and pat dry the drained cherries with paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
This is crucial to ensure that the powdered sugar dough adheres properly to the cherries.
STEP TWO: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the sifted powdered sugar, softened butter, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract. You can start mixing with a large spoon, but using your hands will make the process easier as the mixture comes together.
STEP THREE: Knead until the dough forms a smooth and pliable, play dough-like texture.
STEP FOUR: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to set the finished cherries on to harden. This will prevent the coated cherries from sticking and make clean-up easier.
STEP FIVE: Use a two teaspoon cookie scoop to portion out the powdered sugar dough. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a circle with your hands.
STEP SIX: Take a cherry and place it in the center of the flattened dough circle. Carefully wrap the dough around the cherry, smoothing it out to cover the cherry completely.
Place each covered cherry on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat this process for all the cherries.
STEP SEVEN: Break the chocolate almond bark into smaller chunks and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on full power for one minute, then stir well.
Continue to heat in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
PRO TIP: Add a teaspoon or two of coconut oil to help the chocolate stay smooth and glossy.
STEP EIGHT: Holding each cherry by the stem, dip it into the melted chocolate, making sure it is fully coated. Allow the excess chocolate to drip off before placing the coated cherry back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and even coating.
PRO TIP: If the chocolate starts to harden while you’re working, simply reheat it in the microwave for 15-30 seconds, stirring well to regain a smooth consistency.
STEP TEN: If you have leftover melted chocolate, you can drizzle it over the coated cherries for an extra decorative touch. This step is optional but adds a nice finishing detail.
STEP ELEVEN: Once all the cherries are dipped and decorated, allow them to set completely.
PRO TIP: Set your tray of coated cherries in a cool place to help them harden up more quickly.
Troubleshooting
We’re confident that this recipe should work as directed. However, since every kitchen is a little bit different, it’s possible you might stumble upon an issue, so here’s the best advice from our team:
- If your kitchen is really warm, you might find your dough becomes too soft. If that happens, you can place your dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up a bit.
- Wrapping the dough around the cherries can take a little patience. The easiest way is to make sure the cherries are dry, and to be gentle with the dough.
- If your cherry stems break or are missing, you can use a fork to dip the cherries instead.
- Tap off any excess chocolate after dipping. This makes the chocolate coating smooth and gives it a more professional look.
- If the chocolate begins to harden before you’re done dipping your cherries, reheat the bowl in 15-30 second burst in the microwave.
How To Serve Homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries
Now that you’ve made this yummy cherry chocolate recipe, it’s time to serve them. They’re the perfect treat for Valentine’s Day, but this dessert can be enjoyed all year long.
Dessert Platter: Arrange the chocolate-covered cherries on a dessert platter with an assortment of other bite-sized treats like mini peanut butter cheesecakes, chocolate covered strawberry brownies, and chocolate cherry cookies.
Afternoon Snack: Serve the cherries alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for an elegant afternoon snack with friends. The sweetness of the cherries pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of coffee and the delicate notes of different teas.
Holiday Table: These cherries make a festive addition to your Christmas dessert table. Serve them in a decorative bowl or on a tiered stand with other holiday treats like gingerbread Kiss cookies and peppermint bark.
Gift Boxes: Place the cherries in small gift boxes or tins, lined with parchment paper. They make a great gift! They’re a thoughtful and delicious homemade treat for friends, family, or coworkers.
Incorporate into Other Desserts: Incorporate them into a black forest trifle or parfait. They add a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to these desserts.
MORE CHOCOLATE COVERED DESSERTS
How To Store Chocolate-Covered Cherries
Proper storage of your chocolate covered cherries will keep them fresh and delicious, whether you’re making them ahead of time or storing leftovers. Here’s how you can store them to maintain their best quality.
MAKE AHEAD: You can easily prepare these chocolate covered cherries ahead of time. Simply wrap the cherries in the powdered sugar dough the day before you plan to serve them. Store the wrapped cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
On the day of serving, dip them in melted chocolate and allow them to set before enjoying.
IN THE FRIDGE: Store your chocolate-covered cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to five days. If your kitchen is warm, we recommend storing them in the fridge instead so the chocolate doesn’t melt.
If you need to make more than one layer of cherries in your container, place a piece of wax paper between the layers.
IN THE FREEZER: For longer storage, you can freeze your cherries. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer the frozen cherries to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
To enjoy, thaw the cherries in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Why These Chocolate Covered Cherries Are The Best
Whether you’re making these chocolate and cherry treats for a special occasion or just because, there are plenty of reasons to love them:
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Quick Preparation: You only need 25 minutes to prep, making it a convenient option for busy days and around the holidays.
Beautiful Presentation: These cherries look impressive and add a fancy touch to any dessert table.
Kid-Friendly: This recipe is simple enough that kids can help with wrapping the cherries and dipping them in chocolate.
Great for Gifting: Packaged in a pretty box, these cherries make a thoughtful homemade gift.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a smooth chocolate coating on the cherries?
Make sure the chocolate is fully melted and smooth before dipping, and tap off any excess chocolate after dipping each cherry.
Can I use other types of syrup instead of light corn syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute, but they may slightly alter the taste and texture of the dough.
Do I need to refrigerate the cherries after dipping them in chocolate?
If your kitchen is warm, it’s best to refrigerate them to prevent the chocolate from melting.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands?
If your dough is a little sticky, lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar. This should prevent the dough from sticking to your hands while wrapping the cherries.
What can I use if I don’t have chocolate almond bark?
You can substitute with chocolate bars of any flavor. Try white chocolate, dark chocolate, or milk chocolate. Candy melt wafers are also a good alternative.
Chocolate covered cherries are a delightful treat with a gooey center and a sweet, double-layered coating. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
More Cherry Recipes You’ll Love
Chocolate Covered Cherries
This no-fail recipe for chocolate covered cherries makes a ton of sweet treats that are easy to make. Made with maraschino cherries, a powdered sugar dough, and rich chocolate coating.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 34 cherries
Ingredients
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries with stems, drained and patted dry
- 2 ¼ cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 12 ounces chocolate almond bark, broken into smaller chunks
Instructions
- Add the sifted powdered sugar, softened butter, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract to a medium-sized (2-3 quarts) mixing bowl. You can use a large spoon to stir the powdered sugar and butter mixture together. This will start off very dry, but will meld together. OR, you can use your clean dry hands to stir the ingredients together. (I used my hands, it was just a lot easier)
- Knead the powdered sugar mixture until it is pliable. (It should have the feel and pliability of play dough)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Use a 2 teaspoon cookie scoop to scoop out the powdered sugar dough. Roll the powdered sugar dough into a ball. Use your hand to flatten the ball into a circle. Pick up the circle and carefully wrap it around the cherry. You will need to smooth out the powdered sugar dough covered cherry until it is round. Place on the parchment paper lined baking sheet. Repeat for the remaining cherries.
- Add the chocolate almond bark to a medium size microwave safe bowl. Heat for 1 minute on full power. Stir very well and continue to heat in 30 second increments until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Holding the covered cherry by the stem, completely dunk the cherry in the melted chocolate. Be sure to allow the excess chocolate to drip off, before placing the chocolate coated cherry on the parchment paper lined baking sheet. Repeat for the remaining cherries. (You may need to reheat the chocolate in the microwave if the chocolate begins to harden)
- Once all of the cherries have been dipped in chocolate, you can optionally use the leftover chocolate to drizzle over the coated cherries.
Notes
The best way to prevent the dough from drying out is to work quickly. If your powdered sugar dough gets too dry or starts to crumble, you can try kneading it back together. If necessary, add a few drops more corn syrup to the dough as you knead it.
If your kitchen is really warm, you might find your dough becomes too soft. If that happens, you can place your dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up a bit.
Wrapping the dough around the cherries can take a little patience. The easiest way is to make sure the cherries are dry, and to be gentle with the dough.
If your cherry stems break or are missing, you can use a fork to dip the cherries instead.
Tap off any excess chocolate after dipping. This makes the chocolate coating smooth and gives it a more professional look.
If the chocolate begins to harden before you’re done dipping your cherries, reheat the bowl in 15-30 second burst in the microwave.
Nutrition
Calories: 109kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 14mg | Potassium: 19mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 46IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.03mg
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Comments
Meg says
I made these for my grandmother, they were always her favorite treat and she loved getting them homemade from me. I love how they turned out! I’ll definitely make them again.