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Homemade Chocolate Covered Cherry Cordials

A plate of homemade chocolate covered cherries, one cut open showing the creamy filling and cherry center.

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Create elegant, decadent chocolate-covered cherry cordials at home. This recipe uses maraschino cherries to achieve the classic, juicy center encased in rich chocolate, perfect for gifting or holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (16 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained well
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 pound dark or milk chocolate, for dipping
  • 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother dipping)

Instructions

  1. Place the drained maraschino cherries on a paper towel-lined plate. Pat them completely dry. This step is crucial for proper chocolate coating.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and water until a smooth, thick fondant forms. This mixture will create the classic creamy center.
  3. Take a small amount of fondant mixture (about 1/4 teaspoon) and press it around each dried cherry. Roll it into a ball shape, completely enclosing the cherry.
  4. Place the fondant-covered cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to set at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or chill them for 30 minutes until the fondant is firm.
  5. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. If using, stir in the shortening or coconut oil for a thinner consistency.
  6. Using a dipping fork or two regular forks, dip each chilled cherry into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess chocolate to drip off.
  7. Return the coated cherries to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Let the chocolate set completely at room temperature, or speed up the process by chilling them for 15 minutes.

Notes

  • For a liquid center, skip the fondant step and simply dip the thoroughly dried maraschino cherries directly into the melted chocolate. Chill immediately after dipping.
  • Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor; this elevates your gourmet chocolate cherry gifts.
  • If the chocolate seizes or becomes too thick, add a few drops of vegetable oil or shortening to thin it slightly.

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