If you’re craving a rich, fruity treat that feels fancy but is simple to make, this chocolate covered cherries recipe is just what you need. Whether you’re preparing a special Valentine’s Day dessert, assembling holiday candy treats, or simply want a sweet bite after dinner, these indulgent little gems never disappoint. With just a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy juicy cherries wrapped in a silky dark chocolate coating that melts in your mouth. This is more than just candy—it’s a bite of nostalgia and love. Learn how to create the perfect homemade chocolate candy that brings together the best of cherry and chocolate pairing.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Covered Cherries
These cherries are a mix of juicy fruit and smooth chocolate. The mix of cherry and chocolate pairing creates a taste that is both rich and refreshing. The best part? You don’t need to be a chef to make them. Even if it’s your first time in the kitchen, you can make this treat easily.
Many people love them during the holidays. They make the perfect DIY holiday gifts or homemade candy for gifting. Plus, this Valentine’s Day dessert looks fancy but is very simple to make. The joy of biting into a cherry with sweet cherry filling wrapped in dark chocolate coating is something unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this easy homemade chocolate covered cherries recipe, you only need a few ingredients. You can pick either maraschino cherries or fresh cherries. Each gives a slightly different taste. For the chocolate, you can go with milk, white, or dark chocolate coating, depending on what you like.
If you want to make a special version, you can even add a bit of alcohol for a cherry cordial recipe twist. This kind of chocolate dessert idea can be personalized easily. Want a healthier option? Go for dark chocolate and skip the cordial filling.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
| Fresh/Maraschino Cherries | Sweet and juicy cherry center |
| Chocolate (dark/milk) | Rich coating |
| Optional liquor/extract | Flavor boost |
| Powdered sugar | For cherry cordials |
| Butter/cream | Smooth texture in fillings |
Tools and Equipment
Making homemade chocolate candy is easier with the right tools. A cherry pitter tool saves a lot of time and keeps the cherries whole. If you don’t have one, learn what to use instead of cherry pitter like a straw or chopstick.
For melting chocolate, tools for melting chocolate like a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler are useful. Candy dipping forks and candy molds can also help shape your cherry bonbons into a perfect form. Having a baking sheet and parchment paper is also helpful.
How to Pit and Prepare the Cherries
If you’re using fresh cherries, knowing how to pit cherries easily is key. A cherry pitter tool is the fastest way. But a straw or chopstick works if you’re careful. Just push gently from the bottom until the pit pops out.
Once pitted, make sure the cherries are dry. Wet cherries can make the chocolate slip off. Pat them with paper towels and let them air dry. This helps the sweet cherry filling hold together and lets the chocolate stick better.
How to Melt Chocolate Perfectly
Melting chocolate can be tricky. If it gets too hot, it might burn. That’s why knowing how to melt chocolate without burning it is important. You can use the microwave in short bursts or a double boiler for more control.
Some helpful chocolate melting tips include chopping the chocolate evenly and stirring often. Add a tiny bit of butter or shortening for smoother results. This makes your chocolate dipped cherries glossy and delicious.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherries – Step by Step
This is a step-by-step cherry dessert recipe anyone can follow. First, make sure your cherries are ready and dry. Then melt the chocolate. Dip each cherry into the chocolate using a fork or skewer. Let the extra chocolate drip off.
Place them on parchment paper and let them set in the fridge. For a fun twist, you can use candy molds to shape them like store-bought cherry bonbons. Either way, they come out looking fancy and tasting even better.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
There are many ways to change this cherry dessert recipe. You can use white chocolate, or mix dark and milk chocolate for a swirl effect. Want something fun? Add sprinkles, nuts, or even coconut for texture.
If you want something super easy, try the easy three ingredient candy recipe version. Use maraschino cherries, chocolate chips, and a small amount of cream or butter. It’s fast, simple, and great for kids to help with.
Storage and Shelf Life
Wondering how to store chocolate covered treats? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps them fresh and stops the chocolate from melting. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
So, how long do chocolate covered cherries last? They usually last up to two weeks in the fridge. But if you’re using fresh cherries, try to eat them within 5 to 7 days for the best flavor and texture.
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Gifting Ideas and Presentation Tips
These cherries make perfect gifting homemade treats for friends and family. Wrap them in foil candy wrappers or place them in little boxes with paper cups. It shows care and looks beautiful.
If you’re preparing for holidays, birthdays, or romantic surprises, wrapping homemade candy for holidays adds a thoughtful touch. Tie a ribbon around the box and include a handwritten note. It’s better than any store-bought gift.
FAQs
Q: What is the best chocolate to use for chocolate covered cherries?
The best chocolate is high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate that melts smoothly and complements the cherries’ sweetness.
Q: What is the clear liquid in chocolate covered cherries?
It’s usually a sugar-based syrup formed by enzymes that liquefy the cherry fondant over time.
Q: Are cherry cordials the same as chocolate covered cherries?
Not exactly—cherry cordials have a liquid center, while regular chocolate covered cherries are often just dipped without filling.
Q: How long will chocolate covered cherries last?
They can last up to 2 weeks refrigerated, but those with liquid centers improve in flavor after a few days.
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