# Components:
→ Cherries
01 - 24 fresh, firm cherries with stems, pitted (or high-quality maraschino cherries, well drained)
→ Chocolate Coating
02 - 7 oz dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
03 - 1 tbsp coconut oil or unsalted butter
→ Garnishes (optional)
04 - 2 tbsp finely chopped pistachios
05 - 2 tbsp desiccated coconut
06 - 2 tbsp white chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
# Directions:
01 - Wash and thoroughly dry the cherries. If using fresh cherries, pit carefully while keeping stems intact for easy dipping.
02 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
03 - In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt dark chocolate with coconut oil until smooth. Remove from heat.
04 - Hold each cherry by the stem and dip into melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place onto the prepared baking sheet.
05 - Sprinkle some cherries with chopped pistachios or desiccated coconut before chocolate sets for added flair.
06 - Repeat until all cherries are coated. Optionally, drizzle melted white chocolate over the bites for decoration.
07 - Chill in refrigerator for 20 minutes or until chocolate is fully set.
08 - Arrange chocolate-covered cherries in a pyramid shape on a serving platter: base layer of 9, then 7, 5, 3, finishing with one on top.
09 - Serve immediately or store chilled up to 2 days.
