Chocolate Cherry Cups
Chocolate Cherry Cups offer a delightful combination of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and nutty crunch in bite-sized treats perfect for parties or indulgent snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and butter together until well combined.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Divide the dough in half; add melted chocolate and walnuts to one half, mixing well.
- Press the chocolate-walnut dough into muffin cups to form a base.
- Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each dough portion.
- Top each cherry with a portion of plain dough and then another cherry half.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
- Frost with chocolate frosting or leave plain, as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of regular chocolate. You can also substitute the walnuts with pecans for a different nutty taste. If you want a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. If the dough is too sticky, chill it for a bit before pressing into the muffin cups.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delectable treats warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Meringue Kisses - Cookies for a sweet treat spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chocolate Cherry Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their softness and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Cherry Cups contains roughly 200 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value).
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 have a different texture and moisture content. It's best to pit and halve them before adding to the cups. Keep in mind that fresh cherries will not have the same sweetness as maraschino cherries, so you might want to adjust the sugar in the recipe.
What if I don't have muffin cups?
If you don't have muffin cups, you can use a greased baking dish or a tart pan. Just make sure to adjust the baking time, as a larger dish may require a few extra minutes to cook through. You can also use parchment paper to line the dish for easier removal.
Can I freeze the Chocolate Cherry Cups?
Yes, you can freeze them! Allow the cups to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
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).