Cherry Chocolates
Sweet cherry chocolates with creamy centers dipped in smooth chocolate, perfect for gift-giving or special occasions, appealing to lovers of rich, fruity confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the maraschino cherries and set aside.
- Melt margarine in a bowl, then stir in marshmallow cream and powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well.
- Form the mixture into small round balls, flatten them, place a cherry in the center, then roll and seal to enclose the cherry.
- Place the formed candies in the refrigerator to cool.
- Put chocolate chips in a double boiler and melt.
- Add paraffin to the melted chocolate mixture and continue melting.
- Once the wax is almost melted, add the almond bark and melt completely.
- Insert a toothpick into each cherry candy and dip into the melted chocolate mixture, coating thoroughly.
- Place the dipped chocolates on wax paper to set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using dark chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate for a richer flavor. If you prefer a different fruit center, consider swapping the maraschino cherries for dried apricots or fresh raspberries. Ensure the cherries are well-drained to avoid excess moisture. When forming the balls, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry chocolates make a delightful dessert or sweet treat for gatherings. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving alongside a Warm Crab Appetizer for a well-rounded snack platter. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chocolate-covered cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They can last up to two weeks. If you need to reheat the chocolate, do so gently in a double boiler to avoid burning, and stir until smooth before dipping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Chocolates contains roughly 281 calories, with 0g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used, but you will need to pit and dry them thoroughly. Keep in mind that fresh cherries may not have the same sweetness or flavor intensity as maraschino cherries, so you might want to adjust the sweetness of the filling accordingly.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can substitute unsalted butter for margarine in equal amounts for a richer flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well. Just ensure it’s in a solid state when mixing with the other ingredients for the best consistency.
How can I make these chocolates more festive?
To make your cherry chocolates more festive, consider drizzling additional melted chocolate on top or rolling them in crushed nuts or sprinkles before they set. Using colored chocolate melts can also add a fun touch for special occasions or holidays.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).