Chocolate Cherries
Chocolate cherries are sweet, creamy confections with a luscious cherry center, coated in rich chocolate and powdered sugar, perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, vanilla, and salt by hand until smooth.
- Roll the mixture into small balls.
- Use your thumb to create a hole in the center of each ball.
- Insert a maraschino cherry into the hole and reshape the ball around it.
- Place the filled balls on waxed paper and chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smoother consistency, ensure that the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you prefer a different flavor, consider using almond extract instead of vanilla. For a fun twist, you can roll the balls in crushed nuts or sprinkles for added texture. If you need a quicker alternative, check out Sally'S Cookies (No Bake) for easy treat ideas.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Cherries are perfect for parties or as a sweet treat after dinner. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serving them alongside a warm cup of coffee. They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters featuring other sweet delights, such as Pumpkin Gems or Banana Nut Chocolate Chip Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, place the balls on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator before serving, as reheating is not recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Cherries contains roughly 177 calories, with 0g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 0g 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?
While fresh cherries can be used, they will not have the same sweetness or texture. Maraschino cherries provide a unique flavor and juiciness that complements the cream cheese mixture well. If using fresh cherries, make sure to pit and slice them to fit inside the balls.
How can I make these chocolate-covered?
To add a chocolate coating, melt the Hershey bars with the paraffin in a double boiler. Once the balls are chilled and firm, dip each one into the melted chocolate mixture, allowing excess to drip off before placing them back on waxed paper to set. This adds an indulgent layer of chocolate.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
You can substitute the cream cheese with a low-fat or dairy-free alternative to reduce calories. Additionally, consider using a sugar substitute for the powdered sugar if you're watching your sugar intake. This way, you can still enjoy a sweet treat while keeping it lighter.
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).