Ingredients
- Maraschino cherries with stems, 1 (28 ounce) jar, drained and patted dry
- Unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons, softened
- Powdered sugar, 2 cups, sifted
- Milk, 2-3 tablespoons
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips, 12 ounces
- Vegetable shortening, 1 tablespoon
- Wax paper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until a smooth, firm paste forms. If the mixture is too dry, add a tiny bit more milk, one drop at a time.
- Step 2: Take a small amount of the sugar mixture and wrap it around each cherry, covering it completely. Place the coated cherries on a wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Step 3: Refrigerate the cherries for at least 30 minutes to allow the sugar coating to firm up.
- Step 4: In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening, stirring occasionally until smooth and completely melted. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to prevent burning.
- Step 5: Dip each chilled cherry into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Use a fork or dipping tools to lift the cherry out of the chocolate and allow excess chocolate to drip off. Place the dipped cherries back on the wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Step 6: Refrigerate the chocolate-covered cherries for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has set completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For best results, keep your chocolate-covered cherries refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain their firmness and prevent the chocolate from blooming.
- If the chocolate coating softens too much, a quick 5-minute chill in the freezer will restore its delightful snap.
- Serve these decadent treats chilled on a dessert platter, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special indulgence.
- To prevent a grainy texture in the filling, be sure to sift the powdered sugar completely and avoid overmixing once the milk is added.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American