Introduction

Chocolate Covered Cherry Cordials are a classic treat that combines sweet cherries with rich, creamy chocolate. These homemade cordials offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will impress any chocolate lover.

The image shows several round chocolate-covered treats arranged on brown parchment paper inside a baking pan. Each treat has three clear layers and a bright shiny red cherry on top, with the chocolate shell appearing smooth and glossy. One piece is bitten to reveal a red cherry center surrounded by a white fluffy filling, all covered by an outer chocolate layer. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
6 tablespoons light corn syrup
½ teaspoon kosher salt
4 cups powdered sugar
About 60 maraschino cherries, stems removed
4 ounces unsweetened chocolate
12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (recommended: Guittard)
1 piece (1″x2″x3/4″) paraffin, found in the baking aisle

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix the butter, light corn syrup, kosher salt, and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and forms a dough.
Step 2: Knead the mixture gently into a smooth dough; if it feels too soft, refrigerate it until firm enough to work with.
Step 3: Flatten pieces of dough into circles and wrap each maraschino cherry completely, sealing the dough around it.
Step 4: Place the wrapped cherries on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
Step 5: Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels before wrapping to avoid excess moisture.
Step 6: Melt the unsweetened chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and paraffin together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until smooth and fully combined.
Step 7: Using forks, dip each dough-wrapped cherry into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated.
Step 8: Lift the cherries out, letting the excess chocolate drip off, and place them on wax paper to cool and set completely.

Tips & Variations

To prevent stickiness, dry cherries thoroughly before wrapping and chilling them; this helps the dough stick better and improves coating.
Use high-quality chocolate chips or bars for a richer, smoother shell.
For a different flavor, try adding a splash of cherry liqueur to the dough mixture.
If paraffin is unavailable, substitute with a small amount of coconut oil to help the chocolate set.

Storage

Store the finished cherry cordials in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can cause the chocolate to bloom or become sticky. If stored well, they maintain their texture and flavor. Allow cordials to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

How to Serve

A close-up view of round chocolate truffles arranged on light brown parchment paper placed over a baking tray. The truffles have a smooth, dark brown chocolate shell with a few decorated with thin chocolate lines on top. One truffle near the center is bitten, revealing three layers: a glossy bright red jelly center, a white sugary coating surrounding the jelly, and the outer dark chocolate shell. In the lower left corner, a shiny bright red cherry is partially visible. The background below the tray shows a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries contain more moisture and a pit, making them less ideal for this recipe. Maraschino cherries hold up better and add sweetness, so they are preferred for consistent results.

What if I don’t have paraffin for melting the chocolate?

You can substitute paraffin with a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable shortening to help the chocolate coating stay smooth and firm after cooling.