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–+ servings
Chocolate Covered Cherries
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.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Course Candy, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 36 pieces
Calories 95 kcal

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
Keyword candy, cherries, chocolate, chocolate cherries, edible gifts, holiday treats, homemade candy, no-bake candy, old-fashioned sweets, vintage recipe
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