My Famous Chocolate Covered Cherries

The memory is as vivid as the bright red of the maraschino cherries themselves: my grandmother, perched on her floral sofa, a twinkle in her eye and a small, porcelain dish hidden beneath a knitted afghan. These weren’t just any candies; these were her coveted chocolate-covered cherries, a Christmas tradition so fiercely guarded that she’d ration them to herself like precious jewels. Every year, I’d try to sneak a peek at her stash, hoping to snag one of those decadent delights, the sweet cherry liqueur bursting in my mouth followed by the rich, cool chocolate. It was this playful game, this shared secret, that made those cherries so much more than just a candy; they were a symbol of her love, her mischievous spirit, and the magic of the holiday season. Now, I carry on this tradition, hoping to evoke the same joy and fondness in my own family with each bite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 3 hours
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for melting chocolate)
• Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
• Yields: Varies (approximately 2-3 dozen, depending on filling size)
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian (can be made vegan with substitutions)

Ingredients

• 2 cups powdered sugar (plus extra, up to 1 cup, if needed to thicken the filling)
• 1/4 cup margarine (or vegan butter substitute)
• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (or vegan sweetened condensed milk alternative)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt
• Maraschino cherries, drained well
• Milk dipping chocolate (such as Ghirardelli’s), or dark chocolate

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (optional, but recommended)
• Cookie sheets
• Wax paper
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
• Fork or dipping tools

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, margarine, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well blended and smooth. If the mixture seems too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, until it reaches a firm, workable consistency. Be careful not to add too much, as this can make the filling dry. Place the filling in the refrigerator to firm up for at least 1 hour.

2. Freeze the Cherries: While the filling chills, spread the well-drained maraschino cherries out on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper. Freeze the cherries for at least 1 hour. This helps prevent the filling from melting too quickly when you dip them in chocolate. Thoroughly drying the cherries with paper towels before freezing will also help the chocolate adhere better.

3. Assemble the Cherries: Once the filling is firm and the cherries are frozen, remove both from the refrigerator/freezer. Scoop out about 1-2 teaspoons of the filling (or more, depending on your preference) and form it into a ball around each frozen cherry, completely encasing the cherry. Work quickly to prevent the filling from softening too much.

4. Freeze Again: Place the assembled cherries on a wax paper-lined cookie sheet and return them to the freezer for another hour. This step is crucial for ensuring the filling holds its shape during the dipping process.

5. Melt the Chocolate: While the cherries are freezing for the second time, prepare the milk dipping chocolate. You can melt it in a double boiler over simmering water or in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize up. A little bit of shortening or coconut oil can be added to the chocolate while melting to make it smoother and easier to work with.

6. Dip the Cherries: Remove the frozen, filled cherries from the freezer. Using a fork or dipping tools, carefully dip each cherry into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s completely coated. Gently tap off any excess chocolate.

7. Chill the Cherries: Place the dipped cherries back on a wax paper-lined cookie sheet and chill them in the refrigerator until the chocolate is solid. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

8. Serve and Store: Once the chocolate is completely set, carefully remove the cherries from the wax paper, being gentle to avoid breaking them open and losing the soft center. Store the chocolate-covered cherries in an airtight plastic container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 month.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Temperature is Key: Maintaining the right temperature for both the filling and the cherries is crucial. Keeping them cold helps the filling hold its shape and prevents the chocolate from melting the filling too quickly during dipping.
• Drain the Cherries Well: Excess moisture from the cherries can cause the chocolate to seize or the filling to become runny. Make sure to drain the cherries thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels before freezing.
• Use High-Quality Chocolate: The quality of the chocolate greatly impacts the final taste. Opt for a good-quality dipping chocolate, such as Ghirardelli’s, or your favorite dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Thicken the Filling: If you find the filling is too runny, even after chilling, gradually add more powdered sugar until it reaches the desired consistency. Don’t be afraid to add up to a cup extra.
• Add a Little Flavor: Consider adding a small amount of almond extract or cherry flavoring to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These chocolate-covered cherries are best served chilled. Arrange them artfully on a platter or in a candy dish for a festive presentation. They make a delightful treat on their own or as part of a dessert assortment.

To store, keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for up to 1 month. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. However, be aware that the texture of the filling may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to bring them to room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (estimated)	% Daily Value
Calories	150 kcal	8%
Total Fat	8g	12%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	2mg	1%
Sodium	30mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate	20g	7%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	18g	–
Protein	1g	2%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Chocolate Covered Cherries: Substitute the margarine with vegan butter, the sweetened condensed milk with vegan sweetened condensed milk, and use vegan chocolate for dipping.
• Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor.
• Liqueur Infusion: For an extra boozy kick, soak the maraschino cherries in a cherry liqueur, such as Kirschwasser, for a few hours before assembling the candies. Be sure to drain them well before freezing.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, over the dipped cherries before the chocolate sets for added texture and flavor.
• Flavor the Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for a festive holiday flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: My filling is too runny. What can I do?
A: Gradually add more powdered sugar to the filling, about 1/2 cup at a time, until it reaches a firm, workable consistency. Chill the filling for a longer period of time.

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: While you can use fresh cherries, maraschino cherries are traditionally used for their sweet flavor and bright red color. If using fresh cherries, pit them and soak them in a sugar syrup for a few hours before assembling.

Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
A: Avoid drastic temperature changes. Ensure the cherries are thoroughly chilled before dipping and allow the chocolate to cool slightly before dipping.

Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate?
A: Yes, you can use any type of chocolate you prefer, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolate. Adjust the sweetness of the filling accordingly.

Q: How long do these last?
A: When stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, chocolate-covered cherries can last for up to 1 month. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture of the filling may change slightly upon thawing.

Final Thoughts

These chocolate-covered cherries are more than just a recipe; they’re a journey back to cherished memories and a celebration of simple pleasures. Don’t be intimidated by the steps; each one is essential for creating that perfect bite – the sweet cherry, the creamy filling, and the rich, smooth chocolate. I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and create your own traditions. And if you happen to hide them from your family like my grandmother did, I won’t tell! Pair these with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate indulgence. I’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations, so please share your experiences and any variations you try! Happy candy-making!