Chocolate Covered Cherries are a beloved treat known for their balance of sweet, tangy maraschino cherries encased in a rich, chocolatey shell. This nostalgic dessert, often associated with the holidays and special occasions, combines a creamy filling with a satisfying chocolate coating. It's a classic candy recipe from mid-century America, often made at home to gift or share during festive seasons.
Ingredients
- 20 oz maraschino cherries (maraschino cherries)
- ⅓ cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup butter ( or margarine)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 lbs powdered sugar
- ½ bar paraffin wax
- 6-12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
- Drain maraschino cherries thoroughly and set aside on paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Cream Coating
- Mix corn syrup, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Wrap Cherries
- Pinch off small amounts of the mixture and wrap around each cherry to cover completely.
- Place on a buttered cookie sheet and chill well.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
- In a double boiler, melt chocolate chips and paraffin wax together until smooth.
Step 5: Dip the Cherries
- Dip each chilled cherry into the melted chocolate mixture.
- Place dipped cherries back on the cookie sheet and allow to cool and harden.
Tips
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for a smoother dip.
- Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of cherry juice to the fondant center for extra flavor.
- Chill cherries before wrapping to help the fondant adhere.
- For a firmer coating, use semi-sweet chocolate; for sweeter, use milk chocolate.
- Let dipped cherries rest for 24 hours to allow centers to soften into liquid (classic style).
- Replace paraffin with 1 teaspoon shortening if preferred.
- Add almond extract for a cherry-almond twist.
- Drizzle white chocolate on top for decoration.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 0.4gFat: 4.2gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.9gTrans Fat: 0.05gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 7mgPotassium: 20mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 90IUVitamin C: 0.6mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.3mg
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