Chocolate-Covered Cherries Recipe

If you’re looking for a nostalgic treat that feels both indulgent and delightfully sophisticated, this Chocolate-Covered Cherries Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture juicy maraschino cherries enveloped in a tender, buttery sugar dough, then lavishly coated in smooth, glossy chocolate almond bark. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet, fruity, and rich chocolate that melts in your mouth—a charming homemade candy that’s surprisingly simple to make but guaranteed to impress. Whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these chocolate-covered cherries bring a charming touch to any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, classic ingredients that come together beautifully to create that melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant flavor. Each element plays a part, from the creamy butter enhancing richness to the almond and vanilla extracts adding subtle layers of aroma and complexity.

• Maraschino cherries with stems (10 ounces): These juicy cherries bring that signature sweet and tangy burst enclosed in every chocolate-covered bite.
• Powdered sugar, sifted (2 1/4 cups): It sweetens and thickens the dough, ensuring a smooth, meltable consistency that molds easily.
• Unsalted butter, softened (4 tablespoons): Adds creaminess and moisture, helping the dough form a pliable base that tastes rich without overpowering.
• Light corn syrup (2 tablespoons): Keeps the dough pliable and adds a glossy finish to the coating.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a warm, comforting flavor that enhances the sweetness of the cherries and chocolate.
• Almond extract (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle nutty note that complements both the cherries and chocolate elegantly.
• Chocolate almond bark (12 ounces): This melts smoothly and hardens with a beautiful sheen, perfect for coating the cherries with a satisfying snap.

How to Make Chocolate-Covered Cherries Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Sweet Dough Base

Start by combining the sifted powdered sugar, softened butter, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a medium bowl. This mixture will come together in an unexpectedly delightful texture that’s slightly dry initially but transforms into a smooth, moldable dough with a little patience.

Step 2: Use Your Hands to Blend

Although you could use a spoon, using clean hands is far more effective and quicker. Knead and mix the ingredients together until the dough reaches a consistency similar to Playdoh. This tactile step helps you feel when the dough is just right—soft but not sticky.

Step 3: Prep the Workspace

Line a baking sheet generously with parchment paper. This will keep the cherries from sticking once you’ve shaped them, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 4: Shape the Dough Balls

Take about 2 teaspoons of the dough and roll it into a smooth ball. Place each ball on the lined baking sheet. Continue until all the dough is portioned, giving you a neat little army of sugary bases ready to embrace each cherry.

Step 5: Flatten Disks for Cherries

Gently press down each dough ball to flatten it into a disk roughly 2 inches wide. This provides the perfect surface area to envelop your cherries snugly.

Step 6: Encase Each Cherry

Grab one cherry by the stem and press it into a dough disk, then carefully mold the dough around it until the whole cherry is covered. Smooth out the dough and place the cherry back onto the parchment-lined sheet. Repeat with every cherry for even coverage.

Step 7: Melt the Chocolate Almond Bark

Place the almond bark in a microwave-safe dish and heat for one minute. Stir well, then heat for another 30 seconds. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted, glossy, and smooth, ready for dipping.

Step 8: Dip Each Cherry

Holding the cherry by its stem, dip it fully into the melted chocolate, ensuring a complete, even coating. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing the cherry back onto the baking sheet to set. This step creates that irresistible chocolate shell everyone loves.

Step 9: Finish and Decorate

Once every cherry is dipped and set, gently reheat remaining melted almond bark. Pour or spoon it into a small Ziplock bag, snip a tiny corner, and drizzle decorative chocolate lines over each cherry. Allow this to dry completely for an elegant finish.

How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Cherries Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of finely chopped toasted almonds or a light dust of cocoa powder over the chocolate before it sets if you want a textured contrast. For a festive touch, edible gold flakes or colorful sugar sprinkles can instantly elevate their presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair these luscious chocolate-covered cherries with a rich cup of coffee or a creamy glass of milk for a classic combination. They also complement a cheese plate beautifully, especially with mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone, creating a sweet and savory balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these beauties in mini cupcake liners placed on a decorative plate or a tiered dessert stand for eye-catching appeal. If gifting, pack them in a cellophane bag tied with a ribbon or a pretty box with tissue paper to make any celebration extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your chocolate-covered cherries can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, ideally in a cool, dry place. They stay fresh for up to a week, making them a perfect treat to enjoy over several days without losing their texture or flavor.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats around longer, freeze them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet first, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen chocolate-covered cherries can last up to a month and will thaw beautifully without compromising taste or texture.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these cherries since they are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a softer chocolate coating, let them sit out for a few minutes or gently warm them in your hands before savoring.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries are delicious but have more moisture, which can affect the dough and chocolate coating. Maraschino cherries are recommended because they are firmer, sweeter, and already preserved, making them perfect for this recipe.

What if I don’t have almond bark—can I use regular chocolate?

Yes! Regular chocolate chips or bars will work, but almond bark is easier to melt and hardens with a shinier finish. If you use regular chocolate, temper it carefully for the best results.

How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when biting into the cherries?

Make sure to dip the cherries evenly and avoid applying a thick coat that’s too hard. Also, tempering the chocolate properly helps it stay smooth and less brittle when cooled.

Can I make these without the almond extract?

Absolutely! Almond extract adds a lovely nutty note, but you can omit it or replace it with a little extra vanilla extract for a slightly different but equally tasty flavor.

How long does it take for the chocolate to set completely?

On a cool surface, the chocolate usually sets within 20 to 30 minutes. To speed things up, you can place the cherries in the refrigerator for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Chocolate-Covered Cherries Recipe enough—it’s a wonderfully fun project that transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible homemade candy. Whether you’re making these for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, the smile and delight they bring are worth every minute of effort. Give it a try and enjoy sharing this joyful indulgence with those you love.

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