If there’s one treat I can never pass up, it’s Chocolate Covered Cherries. These irresistible little bites marry vibrant red maraschino cherries with a buttery fondant and a crisp shell of rich chocolate. Whether you’re after a special holiday gift, a Valentine’s treat, or simply a decadent snack for yourself, these confections check every box. Not only are they stunning to behold, but each bite is also a festival of texture and flavor — from the juicy pop of the cherry and velvety fondant to the satisfying snap of chocolate. You truly don’t need a candy thermometer or special equipment; just a few pantry staples and a little patience pay off big with this classic chocolate lover’s delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Chocolate Covered Cherries couldn’t be more straightforward, and each item plays a crucial role. These simple components work together beautifully, giving you pops of color from cherries, creamy richness from butter, and that luscious melt-in-your-mouth chocolate finish.
- Maraschino cherries with stems: Look for whole, plump cherries with intact stems; they add drama and make dipping so much easier.
- Powdered sugar (sifted): Sifting keeps your fondant smooth and lump-free for the silkiest possible texture.
- Salted butter (softened): Salted butter brings out flavor and gives just the right creaminess to your dough.
- Light corn syrup: This key ingredient transforms the dry mixture into a pliable, moldable fondant.
- Pure vanilla extract: A little vanilla lifts the fondant and complements the cherry’s sweetness without overpowering it.
- Almond extract: A splash mingles with the cherries and chocolate for an unmistakable candy-shop aroma.
- Chocolate almond bark: Melts smoothly and sets with a glossy finish, locking in all that deliciousness.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherries
Step 1: Make the Fondant
Begin by combining your sifted powdered sugar, softened salted butter, light corn syrup, pure vanilla extract, and almond extract in a mixing bowl. At first, everything may seem dry and crumbly, but trust the process. Stir together, then use your hands to knead until it’s fully combined and pliable — you’re aiming for a dough that feels just like play dough. This delectable fondant will soon coat the cherries, acting as a sweet, creamy buffer between fruit and chocolate.
Step 2: Prep and Wrap the Cherries
Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Use a cookie scoop (about 2 teaspoons) to portion out the fondant. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a circle with your hands. One by one, gently wrap the fondant around each maraschino cherry, smoothing the sides so there are no cracks. The fondant should fully encase the cherry, leaving just the stem sticking out. Set each one carefully on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Chill to Set
Once all your cherries are wrapped in fondant, give them 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator. Chilling firms up the fondant, making them easier to dip in chocolate and ensuring they keep their perfect round shape.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Almond Bark
Add your chocolate almond bark to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for a minute, then stir. Heat further in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy. If you prefer, you can melt chocolate over a double boiler — just be sure it’s silky and lump-free before moving on.
Step 5: Dip the Fondant-Cherries in Chocolate
This is the fun part! Grab each fondant-wrapped cherry by the stem and dunk it fully into the melted chocolate, swirling gently to coat. Let the excess drip off, then place each Chocolate Covered Cherry back on the parchment. Work quickly, and if your chocolate begins to set, just pop it back in the microwave briefly. When finished, drizzle any remaining chocolate over the tops for a professional touch.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherries
Garnishes
These luscious treats don’t need much adornment, but a dusting of edible gold glitter, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a few toasted almond slivers on top can make them look positively regal. If you’re feeling playful, try tiny heart-shaped sprinkles for a romantic touch or a light dusting of powdered sugar for a wintry effect.
Side Dishes
Chocolate Covered Cherries are a statement piece on their own, but they pair beautifully with a glass of bubbly Prosecco, a rich cup of espresso, or a creamy vanilla ice cream. If you’re serving a dessert platter, arrange them with chocolate truffles, chocolate-dipped strawberries, or buttery shortbread cookies for a stunning medley of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation truly elevates the experience. For gifting, layer Chocolate Covered Cherries in a pretty box with tissue paper or nestle them in mini cupcake liners. For parties, stack them on a tiered cake stand or serve each one in a vintage cordial glass. You can even use them as edible “garnish” for cakes or bring out a bowlful alongside your favorite after-dinner drinks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, keep your Chocolate Covered Cherries in an airtight container. At cool room temperature, they’re good for up to five days. If your kitchen is warmer, transfer them to the fridge to prevent the chocolate shell from getting too soft or sticky.
Freezing
Chocolate Covered Cherries do freeze well, making them perfect for prepping ahead. Arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
While you won’t need to reheat Chocolate Covered Cherries, if you find the chocolate has become a bit too cold from the fridge or freezer, set the container at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This way, the centers return to that luscious, soft-chewy state everyone loves.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used, but maraschino cherries offer the classic flavor and keep their juiciness better inside the fondant. If you do try fresh cherries, make sure they’re pitted and dry, and keep in mind the shelf life will be shorter.
What’s the best chocolate for dipping?
Chocolate almond bark is recommended for its meltability and shiny finish, but high-quality dark or milk chocolate will work well, too. Just avoid chocolate chips, which sometimes lead to a dull finish or simply don’t set as firmly.
How do I get the fondant to wrap around the cherries evenly?
Make sure your fondant is soft and pliable, almost like play dough. Work with small pieces at a time, flattening them before gently wrapping each cherry. If the fondant gets too sticky, chill your hands or dust your palms lightly with powdered sugar.
Can Chocolate Covered Cherries be made without corn syrup?
Corn syrup keeps the fondant smooth and helps prevent crystallization, but you can sub in glucose syrup if needed. Honey or maple syrup might alter the flavor and texture, so they aren’t recommended as direct swaps here.
How far in advance can I make these for gifting?
If stored at room temperature in an airtight container, Chocolate Covered Cherries keep for about five days. If you’re gifting, make them a day or two before for peak freshness, or freeze and thaw as needed for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about sharing a homemade box of Chocolate Covered Cherries with friends or family — or, let’s be real, hoarding a stash for yourself! Give this timeless recipe a try and watch these charming little candies disappear faster than you can make them. Whether for celebrations or self-care, they never disappoint!
Print
Chocolate Covered Cherries Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 34 cherries
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these Chocolate Covered Cherries, where sweet, juicy cherries are enveloped in rich, velvety chocolate for the perfect blend of flavors. Ideal for gifting, special occasions, or as a decadent snack.
Ingredients
For the powdered sugar mixture:
- 2¼ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
Additional Ingredients:
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries with stems, drained and patted dry
- 12 ounces chocolate almond bark, broken into chunks
Instructions
- Making the powdered sugar mixture: Combine powdered sugar, softened butter, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a bowl. Mix until it forms a pliable dough.
- Preparing the cherries: Wrap the powdered sugar dough around each cherry, forming a smooth ball. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Coating the cherries: Melt the chocolate almond bark and dip each cherry into the chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on the baking sheet to set.
- Optional: Drizzle any leftover chocolate over the cherries. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Notes
- If the chocolate hardens while dipping, reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Ensure the cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the powdered sugar mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cherry
- Calories: 111 kcal
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 27mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 4mg
