Mccall'S Microwave Chocolate-Covered Cherries
Indulge in these rich, chocolate-covered cherries with a creamy almond filling, perfect for gifting or special occasions, blending sweetness with a hint of almond flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.
- In a small bowl, cream together the butter, confectioners sugar, milk, and almond extract.
- If the mixture is too soft, add more sugar until it reaches a firm consistency.
- On a surface lightly sprinkled with confectioners sugar, knead the mixture into a ball.
- Flatten 1 teaspoon of dough into a 2-inch round using your fingers.
- Use a flat metal spatula to lift the round, then mold it around a maraschino cherry to cover completely, leaving the stem exposed.
- Place the covered cherry on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cover loosely and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer chocolate coating, ensure the butter is softened but not melted. If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla can be a suitable substitute. To avoid sticking, dust your hands with confectioners sugar while shaping the dough around the cherries. Consider making a batch of Semi-Sweet Frosted Brownies For A Crowd to serve alongside these cherries for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate-covered cherries make a perfect sweet treat for parties or as a gift. Pair them with a glass of dessert wine or coffee for a delightful finish to any meal. They also complement other desserts, like a slice of Easy Shortcake Biscuits or a scoop of ice cream, creating a variety of textures and flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chocolate-covered cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you're preparing them in advance, make sure they are fully set before transferring them to avoid sticking together. Enjoy them cold for the best texture, or allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mccall'S Microwave Chocolate-Covered Cherries contains roughly 354 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 29g 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 different types of chocolate for coating the cherries?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk or dark chocolate. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and flavor will vary, so adjust the other ingredients slightly if needed.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky to work with?
If the dough becomes too sticky, sprinkle a little more confectioners sugar on your hands and the work surface. Alternatively, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
How long do these cherries need to chill before serving?
It's best to chill the chocolate-covered cherries for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the chocolate to set properly and the flavors to meld, resulting in a more delicious treat.
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).