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Homemade Classic Chocolate Covered Cherry Cordials

Four homemade chocolate covered cherries on a white plate, two showing the bright red, juicy interior.
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Make rich, decadent chocolate-covered cherry cordials at home with a luscious liquid center. This recipe provides simple steps for impressive homemade candy perfect for gifting.

Ingredients

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  • 1 (15 ounce) jar maraschino cherries in brine, drained well
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • 12 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother dipping)

Instructions

  1. Pat the drained maraschino cherries very dry using paper towels. Set aside.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Let it boil until it reaches 238 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage).
  4. Remove the syrup from the heat immediately. Stir in the almond extract.
  5. Dip each dried cherry into the hot syrup, coating it completely. Use a fork or dipping tool to lift the cherry out, allowing excess syrup to drip off. Place the coated cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Let the syrup-coated cherries dry completely at room temperature for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. The coating will crystallize and form a shell around the cherry.
  7. 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.
  8. Dip each dried, crystallized cherry into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Tap the fork gently on the side of the bowl to remove excess chocolate.
  9. Return the dipped cherries to the parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, drizzle with contrasting chocolate or add a small piece of chopped cherry on top before the chocolate sets.
  10. Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature or chill briefly until firm. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Drying the cherries thoroughly in Step 1 is crucial; moisture prevents the chocolate from sticking properly.
  • If you prefer a solid cherry center instead of a liquid cordial, use high-quality dried or candied cherries instead of maraschino cherries.
  • For a smoother chocolate coating, temper the chocolate, though this step is optional for simple home candy making.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/chocolate-covered-cherries-recipe/