Chocolate-covered cherries are a classic treat that bring together two beloved ingredients: the rich, smooth taste of chocolate and the burst of sweetness from fresh cherries. Whether for a festive occasion, as a gift, or simply as a sweet indulgence for yourself, chocolate-covered cherries are always a hit. In this article, we'll guide you through the simple steps to make these delectable treats at home, using chocolate covered cherries as the star ingredient.
When making chocolate covered cherries, choosing the right chocolate is key. While you can use milk, dark, or white chocolate, dark chocolate tends to pair best with the natural sweetness of cherries. A high-quality dark chocolate like Cadbury Bournville dark chocolate offers the perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness. To make the dipping process even smoother, you can melt the chocolate by following a few easy techniques.
Ingredients:
Start by washing the cherries thoroughly, making sure to leave the stems intact. Pat them dry with a paper towel. It's important to make sure the cherries are completely dry before dipping them into the chocolate to avoid any water interference during the process.
For best results, use fresh cherries that are in season. They should be firm, sweet, and plump. If fresh cherries aren’t available, you can opt for maraschino cherries, but make sure to drain and dry them thoroughly.
The key to smooth, glossy chocolate is in the melting process. There are two methods you can use:
Fill a heatproof bowl with the chocolate and place it over a pot of simmering water (make sure the water does not touch the bowl). Stir the chocolate occasionally as it melts, ensuring it melts evenly. Once fully melted, add in the butter and stir until it’s completely combined. This will give your chocolate a smooth, glossy finish.
Place the chopped Cadbury Bournville dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one, until the chocolate is completely melted. Add the butter once melted and stir to combine.
If you prefer a sweeter chocolate coating, you can also add 2 tbsp of powdered sugar to the melted chocolate. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Once your chocolate is melted and smooth, it’s time to start dipping the cherries. Holding the cherry by the stem, dip it into the melted chocolate. Make sure the cherry is fully covered by the chocolate, but leave the stem exposed for a beautiful presentation. After dipping, gently tap the cherry on the edge of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate.
If you’d like, you can also drizzle some white chocolate over the dark chocolate-coated cherries for an added touch.
Once all your cherries are dipped in chocolate, place them on a parchment-lined tray or baking sheet. Allow them to cool and harden. You can speed up this process by refrigerating them for about 30 minutes. For a perfect set, the chocolate should be glossy and firm to the touch.
Now that you know how to make chocolate covered cherries at home, it's time to get started! With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can make these delicious treats that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re preparing for a celebration, a gift, or simply indulging yourself, these chocolate-covered cherries are a perfect choice.