There’s something undeniably nostalgic and indulgent about Choc‑Covered Cherries. Whether they remind you of holiday gift boxes or Valentine’s Day classics, these luscious treats are making a big comeback — and it’s no wonder why. With a sweet maraschino cherry nestled in a creamy fondant center and wrapped in rich chocolate, they’re the perfect combination of juicy, creamy, and crunchy. Best of all? You can make them right at home with just a few pantry staples!
Why You’ll Love This Choc‑Covered Cherries Recipe
- Super Simple to Make – No candy-making experience required. This recipe is beginner-friendly and fuss-free.
- Short Ingredient List – You likely have most of the ingredients on hand already.
- Great for Gifting – These cherries look fancy and store well, making them ideal holiday or party favors.
- Better Than Store-Bought – Homemade means you can control the sweetness and chocolate quality.
- Customizable Flavors – Add almond extract, booze-soaked cherries, or different chocolates to suit your taste.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Choc‑Covered Cherries
- Maraschino Cherries: The star of the show, offering a juicy burst inside every bite.
- Butter & Corn Syrup: The base for the creamy fondant that surrounds the cherry.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and firms up the fondant so it holds its shape.
- Almond Extract: Optional, but it enhances the classic cherry cordial flavor.
- Chocolate Chips or Melting Wafers: For that smooth, rich chocolate coating.
- Shortening (Optional): Helps the chocolate melt evenly and gives it a glossy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Choc‑Covered Cherries
- Drain and Dry the Cherries
Place maraschino cherries on paper towels. Pat them dry thoroughly to prevent moisture from ruining the fondant. - Make the Fondant Dough
Beat together softened butter and corn syrup. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and almond extract until a soft, moldable dough forms. - Wrap the Cherries
Scoop a small portion of the fondant, flatten it in your palm, and wrap it around each cherry. Chill for 30 minutes to firm up. - Melt the Chocolate
Microwave chocolate chips (and shortening if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. - Dip the Cherries
Hold each cherry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate. Let excess drip off and place it on a wax-paper-lined tray. - Let Them Set
Allow cherries to sit until chocolate is firm. For the classic syrupy center, cure them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 weeks.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add a Boozy Twist: Soak the cherries in brandy or amaretto before wrapping.
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Swap milk chocolate for dark for a more intense flavor.
- Holiday Flair: Drizzle with red or white chocolate for festive presentation.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate.
How to Store & Reheat
- To Store: Keep finished Choc‑Covered Cherries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate.
- To Reheat (Optional): If you want a warm, gooey center, microwave a cherry for just 5–10 seconds. Be careful — the center can get hot!
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of Choc‑Covered Cherries, you’ll definitely want to try these other decadent desserts that are just as rich, fruity, and irresistible:
- Chocolate Cherry Pie Bliss (No-Bake) – A luscious no-bake pie bursting with cherry flavor and topped with creamy chocolate goodness.
- White Chocolate Blueberry Cheesecake Cupcakes – Mini cheesecake treats swirled with blueberries and topped with a silky white chocolate finish.
- White Chocolate Lemon Drop – A zesty and sweet white chocolate dessert with a bright citrus twist.
Each one is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests with minimal effort!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do Choc‑Covered Cherries last?
They stay fresh for up to 2 weeks at room temperature, or a month in the fridge.
When do they become syrupy inside?
Let them rest at room temperature in a sealed container for 7 to 14 days. The fondant will slowly turn into a soft, syrupy center.
Can I freeze Choc‑Covered Cherries?
Yes! Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a sealed container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I use fresh cherries?
Maraschino cherries are preferred because they hold up better and offer the classic texture and flavor. Fresh cherries may release too much juice.
These Choc‑Covered Cherries are an irresistible homemade version of a timeless candy-store favorite. Whether you’re gifting them or indulging solo, they’ll become your new go-to for special occasions or sweet cravings. Try them out and let the syrupy surprise inside win you over!
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Choc‑Covered Cherries Recipe
Ingredients
- – 40 maraschino cherries with stems well drained and patted dry
- – 3 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- – 3 tbsp light corn syrup
- – 2 cups powdered sugar
- – 1/4 tsp almond extract optional
- – 12 oz milk or semi-sweet chocolate chipsb or melting wafers
- – 1 tbsp shorteningb optional, for smooth melting
Instructions
- Dry cherries thoroughly on paper towels and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix butter and corn syrup until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and almond extract, forming a soft dough.
- Wrap about 1 tsp of fondant around each cherry, covering completely.
- Chill wrapped cherries in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm.
- Melt chocolate and shortening in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each cherry into melted chocolate, holding by the stem.
- Let excess chocolate drip off, then place on wax paper to set.
- For a syrupy center, store in an airtight container for 7–14 days at room temperature.
Notes
– Use dark chocolate or white chocolate for variations.
– For boozy cherries, soak in amaretto or brandy and dry well before wrapping.