Save Luscious whole cherries wrapped in decadent chocolate, artfully arranged into a stunning pyramid for an unforgettable dessert centerpiece.
This recipe was an absolute hit at our last family gathering, sparking compliments and requests for seconds.
Ingredients
- Cherries: 24 fresh, firm cherries, stems on and pitted (or high-quality maraschino cherries, well-drained)
- Chocolate Coating: 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped, 1 tbsp coconut oil or unsalted butter
- Garnishes (optional): 2 tbsp finely chopped pistachios, 2 tbsp desiccated coconut, 2 tbsp white chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the cherries. If using fresh cherries, pit them carefully, keeping the stems intact for easy dipping.
- Step 2:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 3:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together over a pot of gently simmering water (double boiler), stirring until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Step 4:
- Holding each cherry by the stem, dip it into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place the dipped cherry onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5:
- For extra flair, sprinkle some cherries with chopped pistachios or desiccated coconut before the chocolate sets.
- Step 6:
- Repeat until all cherries are coated. If desired, drizzle melted white chocolate over the bites for a decorative touch.
- Step 7:
- Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
- Step 8:
- To assemble the pyramid, arrange the chocolate-covered cherries in a pyramid shape on a serving platter: start with a base of 9 cherries, then 7, then 5, then 3, finishing with one at the top.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately or store, chilled, for up to 2 days.
Save This dessert always brings my family together, sharing smiles and sweet moments around the table.
Notes
Use a cherry pitter for clean and easy pitting. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Required Tools
Cherry pitter (if using fresh cherries), Heatproof bowl, Saucepan (for double boiler), Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Small spoon (for drizzling and sprinkling garnishes)
Allergen Information
Contains: Tree nuts (if using pistachios), milk (if using butter, white chocolate, or milk chocolate). Dark chocolate may contain traces of milk or nuts&check labels if allergies are a concern.
Save These chocolate-covered cherry bites make an elegant yet simple dessert perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of cherries work best?
Fresh, firm cherries with stems intact are ideal to ensure easy dipping. Alternatively, well-drained maraschino cherries can be used.
- → How do I melt chocolate without burning it?
Use a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring frequently until smooth. Avoid direct heat to prevent scorching.
- → Can I add textures or flavors on top?
Yes, sprinkle chopped pistachios or desiccated coconut before chocolate sets, or drizzle with melted white chocolate for added decoration and taste.
- → How should I store the finished chocolate-covered cherries?
Keep them chilled in the refrigerator for up to two days to maintain freshness and firmness of the chocolate coating.
- → Is there a way to enhance the cherry flavor?
Soaking cherries in kirsch or brandy for an hour before coating infuses them with a subtle, aromatic depth.