Chocolate Covered Cherry Bombs: The Ultimate Cherry Treat Recipe
Introduction to Chocolate Covered Cherry Bombs
Chocolate covered cherry bombs are the perfect sweet indulgence that brings together the rich flavor of chocolate and the tartness of cherries. These delightful treats are not only easy to make but also a great way to impress your friends and family. Whether for a special occasion or just a sweet snack, these cherry bombs are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth!
A Personal Story Behind My Chocolate Covered Cherry Bombs Journey
Growing up, my grandmother made the most amazing chocolate covered cherries during the holidays. The excitement of biting into that sweet chocolate shell and finding a juicy cherry inside was a cherished memory for me. As I grew older, I wanted to recreate that joy and share it with my family and friends. That’s how my journey with chocolate covered cherry bombs began, and now I’m thrilled to pass on this delicious recipe to you!
What Makes This Chocolate Covered Cherry Bombs Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it combines simple ingredients with a delightful twist. The use of maraschino cherries adds the perfect amount of sweetness and tartness, while the chocolate coating creates a satisfying crunch. Plus, the dough is easy to work with and can be customized with additional flavors or toppings, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.
The Full Chocolate Covered Cherry Bombs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 16 oz dark candy melts or chocolate chips (add 2 tsp shortening if using chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Begin by draining the cherries, but don’t forget to save 1/4 cup of cherry juice for later. Pat the cherries dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.
- In a mixer bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and 3 tablespoons of cherry juice. Beat the mixture until a dough forms. If the dough feels too wet, add a little more powdered sugar, or if it’s too dry, add more cherry juice.
- Refrigerate the dough for about 20 minutes. This will help it firm up, making it easier to work with.
- After chilling, take about 2 teaspoons of dough and flatten it into small discs. Wrap each cherry with the dough to create balls. If the dough is sticky, a light spray of cooking spray on your hands can help.
- Place the wrapped balls on a parchment-lined sheet pan and freeze for 20 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring the chocolate coating will set properly later on.
- While the balls are freezing, melt your candy melts in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Using a fork, coat each frozen ball with the melted chocolate, tapping off any excess chocolate before placing them back on the parchment paper.
- For a decorative touch, put a small amount of melted candy in a zip-top bag, snip a corner, and drizzle over the coated balls.
- Allow the chocolate to harden completely before storing the chocolate covered cherry bombs at room temperature. They can be enjoyed for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Chocolate Covered Cherry Bombs
These chocolate covered cherry bombs can be served at parties, given as gifts, or enjoyed as a personal treat. For a fun twist, consider using white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a different flavor profile. You can also add chopped nuts to the cherry dough for an added crunch. They pair wonderfully with coffee or a glass of milk, making them a perfect snack for any time of day!
Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Covered Cherry Bombs
- How do I store chocolate covered cherry bombs? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
- Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries? While maraschino cherries add a sweetness and moisture that is hard to replicate, you can use fresh cherries if you prefer, though they will require more preparation.
- Is this recipe suitable for special diets? The recipe as is is not gluten-free or dairy-free, but you can make substitutions to cater to specific dietary needs.
Chocolate Covered Cherry Bombs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10 oz maraschino cherries
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 3.5 cups powdered sugar
- 16 oz dark candy melts or chocolate chips Add 2 tsp shortening if using chocolate chips
Instructions
- Drain the cherries, saving 1/4 cup of cherry juice. Pat the cherries dry with paper towels.
- In a mixer bowl, combine powdered sugar, butter, and 3 tbsp of cherry juice. Beat until a dough forms. Adjust consistency if needed.
- Refrigerate the dough for 20 minutes.
- Flatten 2 tsp of dough into discs. Wrap each cherry with dough to form balls. Use cooking spray if dough is sticky.
- Place balls on a parchment-lined sheet pan and freeze for 20 minutes.
- Melt candy melts in the microwave in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Coat each ball with chocolate using a fork, tapping off excess chocolate.
- Place coated balls on parchment paper. Repeat for all balls.
- Put melted candy in a bag, snip a corner, and drizzle chocolate over the balls.
- Let the chocolate harden before storing at room temperature for up to a week.