Chocolate-covered Cherries I
Chocolate-covered Cherries I Recipe
Introduction
Chocolate-covered cherries are a classic and decadent treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with the richness of chocolate. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a homemade gift for friends and family.
History
The exact origins of chocolate-covered cherries are unclear, but they have been a popular confection for many years. Some believe that they were first created in Europe, while others attribute their creation to American candy makers. Regardless of their origins, chocolate-covered cherries have become a beloved treat enjoyed by many.
Ingredients
Fondant
- 0.33 cup of karo syrup
- 0.5 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of vanilla
- 1 lb (454 g) package of powdered sugar
- 1 to 3 tbsp of Eagle brand sweetened condensed milk
- chocolate dip
How to prepare
- Mix and knead the ingredients until a dough-like consistency is achieved.
- Take a small amount of the dough and use it to cover a maraschino cherry.
- Place the covered cherry in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Next, dip the cherry in chocolate dip.
- Allow the dipped cherries to ripen for 3 – 4 weeks in a cool place (not the refrigerator). You can also add flavor to the fondant by using orange, cherry, mint, or other flavors and shape them into flavored balls.
Variations
- Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Add a splash of liqueur to the fondant for an adult twist.
- Roll the dipped cherries in chopped nuts or sprinkles for added texture.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use maraschino cherries with stems for easy dipping.
- Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate for a smooth and creamy texture.
- Allow the dipped cherries to set on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chocolate-covered cherries as a dessert or gift them in a decorative box for a special occasion.
Cooking Techniques
Use a toothpick to easily dip the cherries in chocolate.
- Freeze the cherries before dipping to prevent them from falling apart.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute almond milk for the sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
Chocolate-covered cherries can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the chocolate-covered cherries on a decorative platter or in mini cupcake liners for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve chocolate-covered cherries with a glass of red wine or champagne for a luxurious pairing.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store chocolate-covered cherries in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks. Do not refrigerate as it may cause the chocolate to bloom.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of chocolate-covered cherries contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of chocolate-covered cherries contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of chocolate-covered cherries contains approximately 5 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of chocolate-covered cherries contains approximately 1 gram of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Chocolate-covered cherries are a good source of antioxidants from the cherries and cocoa in the chocolate.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy from the sweetened condensed milk and may contain nuts if using flavored extracts.
Summary
Chocolate-covered cherries are a sweet and indulgent treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Chocolate-covered cherries are a delightful and indulgent treat that is perfect for special occasions or as a homemade gift. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious confection that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living on a farm in the countryside. My mother had invited a group of her friends over for a holiday party, and she wanted to impress them with a homemade treat. She had decided to make chocolate-covered cherries, a recipe she had learned from her own mother.
I remember watching as my mother carefully dipped each cherry into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it evenly before placing it on a tray to cool. The rich, sweet smell of the chocolate filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I begged my mother to let me help, but she insisted that I was too young to handle the hot chocolate.
As I watched her work, I couldn't help but be amazed at how effortlessly she seemed to create such a delicious treat. I knew then that I wanted to learn how to make chocolate-covered cherries myself, so that I could impress my own friends and family in the future.
Over the years, I tried to recreate my mother's recipe, but it never quite turned out the same. The cherries would be too tart, or the chocolate too thick. It wasn't until I met Mrs. Jenkins, an elderly woman who lived down the road, that I finally learned the secret to making the perfect chocolate-covered cherries.
Mrs. Jenkins was known throughout the community for her delicious homemade treats, and I knew that she would be the perfect person to teach me the art of chocolate-covered cherries. I approached her one afternoon as she was tending to her garden, and asked if she would be willing to share her recipe with me.
To my surprise, Mrs. Jenkins not only agreed to teach me how to make chocolate-covered cherries, but she invited me into her kitchen to watch her work her magic. As she melted the chocolate over a double boiler, she explained the importance of using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to properly temper the chocolate.
I watched in awe as Mrs. Jenkins dipped each cherry into the chocolate, her hands moving with precision and grace. She showed me how to gently tap the excess chocolate off the cherry, so that it would have a smooth, even coating. She even shared her secret ingredient - a splash of cherry liqueur - that added a subtle depth of flavor to the sweet treat.
As I helped Mrs. Jenkins place the chocolate-covered cherries on a tray to cool, I knew that I had finally found the missing piece to my mother's recipe. The next time I made chocolate-covered cherries, I followed Mrs. Jenkins' instructions to the letter, and to my delight, they turned out perfectly.
Since then, I have made chocolate-covered cherries for every special occasion - holidays, birthdays, and celebrations of all kinds. Each time I make them, I think of Mrs. Jenkins and the invaluable lesson she taught me about the importance of patience, precision, and love in the kitchen.
Now, as I pass on the recipe for chocolate-covered cherries to my own grandchildren, I hope that they too will remember the story of how I learned to make this delicious treat. And perhaps, one day, they will pass it on to their own children, keeping the tradition alive for generations to come.
Categories
| Candy Recipes | Corn Syrup Recipes | Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipes | World Recipes |