Joan'S Chocolate Covered Cherries
Sweet, creamy cherry centers coated in smooth melted chocolate make these homemade treats perfect for special occasions or gift-giving, combining rich flavors with a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine, white Karo, salt, powdered sugar, and vanilla or almond flavoring until smooth.
- Knead the mixture until it is pliable but not sticky, adding more powdered sugar if necessary.
- Take maraschino cherries with stems and dip them into the prepared dough, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Melt chocolate chips or dipping chocolate.
- Dip the coated cherries into the melted chocolate, covering them completely.
- Place the coated cherries on wax paper and allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother coating, ensure your margarine is softened before mixing. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also experiment with different flavorings like orange extract for a twist. If the dough is too sticky, dust your hands with powdered sugar while shaping the cherries to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate-covered cherries make a delightful dessert on their own or can be served alongside coffee for a sweet treat. They pair beautifully with a glass of milk or even a dessert wine. For a fun twist, consider serving them as part of a dessert platter alongside Mildred'S Kidney Bean Dip or other finger foods.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chocolate-covered cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can last up to one week. To enjoy them at their best, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This will soften the chocolate slightly and enhance the flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joan'S Chocolate Covered Cherries contains roughly 289 calories, with 0g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% 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 you can use fresh cherries, they will need to be pitted and may not have the same sweet flavor as maraschino cherries. The sweetness of the cherries complements the chocolate well, so if using fresh ones, consider adding a touch of sugar to the chocolate coating.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make vegan chocolate-covered cherries, substitute margarine with a vegan butter alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips or melting chocolate. Ensure that the maraschino cherries are free from any animal products, as some brands may contain ingredients derived from dairy.
What can I do if my chocolate isn't melting smoothly?
If your chocolate isn't melting smoothly, try adding a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil to the chocolate as it melts. This will help achieve a smoother consistency. Be cautious not to overheat the chocolate; use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals to avoid burning.
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).