Perfect Chocolate Covered Cherries
A simple and delicious recipe for homemade chocolate covered cherries, perfect for Christmas and holiday celebrations. These treats feature a glossy chocolate shell with a juicy cherry center, ideal for gifting or festive snacking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 cherries 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 20–24 fresh cherries, preferably firm and ripe (Bing cherries recommended)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 8 ounces (225g) high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse about 20-24 fresh cherries and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Remove stems but keep pits intact to preserve juiciness.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves.
- Lower heat and simmer cherries in syrup for 5 minutes. Stir gently to coat. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon almond extract if using.
- Transfer cherries to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain and cool completely. Pat dry if needed—this step is key to help the chocolate stick properly.
- Place 8 ounces of chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy. Alternatively, use a double boiler over simmering water.
- Holding a cherry by its stem or using a fork, dip it into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let excess chocolate drip off back into the bowl.
- Place dipped cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top immediately.
- Refrigerate the baking sheet for about 20-30 minutes until the chocolate is firm and shiny.
- Once set, transfer cherries to a serving dish or airtight container. They’re ready to enjoy!
Notes
Dry cherries thoroughly before dipping to prevent chocolate from slipping or seizing. Melt chocolate slowly and stir frequently for a smooth finish. Adding coconut oil helps chocolate set with a glossy, crisp shell. Chill dipped cherries in the refrigerator to maintain shine and firmness. Variations include adding cherry liqueur, using white chocolate, or rolling in nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chocolate covered
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 5
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: chocolate covered cherries, Christmas treats, holiday desserts, easy chocolate recipe, festive snacks, homemade candy