Easy Chocolate-Covered Cherries

Chocolate-covered cherries are a classic treat, perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply when you want a sweet indulgence. These bite-sized delights combine the rich, smooth taste of chocolate with the sweet, tart flavor of cherries, making them irresistible. Whether you’re making them for yourself or as a gift, these chocolate-covered cherries are sure to be a hit!

Chocolate-covered cherries are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with the juicy cherries coated in a thick, rich layer of smooth chocolate. The process of making these treats is surprisingly simple, yet the result looks and tastes like something special. While many versions of chocolate-covered cherries require a syrup center, this easy recipe uses maraschino cherries and simple chocolate coating, making it quick and effortless. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy homemade chocolate-covered cherries that rival any store-bought version. These treats are perfect for gift-giving, parties, or a sweet snack anytime you’re craving chocolate and fruit.

When you make these easy chocolate-covered cherries, you’ll get a delicious combination of sweet cherries, rich chocolate, and a slight crunch from the hardened chocolate exterior. The cherries stay juicy on the inside, providing a burst of flavor when you bite into them. These treats are great for holiday parties, as they’re simple to make, but look sophisticated and festive. You can even customize them by adding a sprinkle of sea salt or drizzling white chocolate over the top to create a unique flavor combination.

Tools to Use

To make these chocolate-covered cherries, you’ll need:

Maraschino cherries: The star of the recipe, choose cherries that are well-drained.
Chocolate: You can use either milk, dark, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
Baking sheet: To set the cherries as they cool.
Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
Double boiler or microwave: To melt the chocolate smoothly.
Toothpicks or skewers: To dip the cherries into the chocolate.

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Ingredients

12 maraschino cherries, well-drained and patted dry
1 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white chocolate)
1 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil (for smooth dipping)
Optional: sea salt or sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Begin by draining the maraschino cherries thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. This is important because any moisture will cause the chocolate to seize and not coat the cherries properly.
Place the cherries on a plate lined with parchment paper or wax paper.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate with the vegetable oil. If using the microwave, heat the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
If using a double boiler, fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the chocolate in the top pot and stir until completely melted.

Step 3: Coat the Cherries

Use toothpicks or skewers to dip each cherry into the melted chocolate. Gently swirl to ensure the cherry is fully coated.
Lift the cherry out of the chocolate and allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the cherry onto the prepared baking sheet.
Repeat this process for all cherries.

Step 4: Cool and Set

Once all cherries are coated in chocolate, place the baking sheet in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden completely.

Step 5: Serve or Store

Once the chocolate is set, remove the cherries from the fridge. If you like, you can sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top of each cherry for a sweet-and-salty flavor.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

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Easy Chocolate-Covered Cherries

Equipment

Maraschino cherries: The star of the recipe, choose cherries that are well-drained.
Chocolate: You can use either milk, dark, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
Baking sheet: To set the cherries as they cool.
Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
Double boiler or microwave: To melt the chocolate smoothly.
Toothpicks or skewers: To dip the cherries into the chocolate.

Ingredients

12 maraschino cherries well-drained and patted dry
1 cup chocolate chips milk, dark, or white chocolate
1 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil for smooth dipping
Optional: sea salt or sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Begin by draining the maraschino cherries thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. This is important because any moisture will cause the chocolate to seize and not coat the cherries properly.
Place the cherries on a plate lined with parchment paper or wax paper.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate with the vegetable oil. If using the microwave, heat the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
If using a double boiler, fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the chocolate in the top pot and stir until completely melted.
Step 3: Coat the Cherries
Use toothpicks or skewers to dip each cherry into the melted chocolate. Gently swirl to ensure the cherry is fully coated.
Lift the cherry out of the chocolate and allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the cherry onto the prepared baking sheet.
Repeat this process for all cherries.
Step 4: Cool and Set
Once all cherries are coated in chocolate, place the baking sheet in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden completely.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Once the chocolate is set, remove the cherries from the fridge. If you like, you can sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top of each cherry for a sweet-and-salty flavor.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Tips for Cooking

Dry the Cherries Well: Make sure to pat the cherries dry with paper towels. Any moisture on the cherries will cause the chocolate to seize and not coat them properly.
Use Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better your chocolate-covered cherries will taste. Choose high-quality chocolate chips or chocolate bars for a smoother, richer flavor.
Customize Your Cherries: You can decorate the chocolate-covered cherries with sprinkles, drizzle them with white chocolate, or sprinkle them with a pinch of sea salt for added flavor.
Chill to Set: Be sure to let the chocolate set in the fridge. This allows the chocolate to harden and ensures a nice, crisp bite when you enjoy them.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

These easy chocolate-covered cherries are the perfect combination of sweet and tart. The juicy cherry center paired with the rich, smooth chocolate is a simple yet decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Not only are they easy to make, but they also look elegant and make great gifts. Plus, you can customize them with different types of chocolate or toppings, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging yourself, these chocolate-covered cherries will be a hit.

Chocolate-covered cherries are a fun and easy treat that brings together the best of both worlds: rich chocolate and juicy fruit. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an indulgent treat that’s perfect for holidays, gifts, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. Enjoy making these chocolate-covered cherries and impress your friends and family with your delicious creations!