Pin This Luscious whole cherries wrapped in decadent chocolate, artfully arranged into a stunning pyramid for an unforgettable dessert centerpiece.
This dessert is perfect for parties and family gatherings; the chocolate-covered cherries always impress guests and are fun to assemble into a pyramid.
Ingredients
- Cherries: 24 fresh firm cherries, stems on and pitted (or high-quality maraschino cherries, well-drained)
- Chocolate Coating: 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped and 1 tbsp coconut oil or unsalted butter
- Garnishes (optional): 2 tbsp finely chopped pistachios, 2 tbsp desiccated coconut, 2 tbsp white chocolate melted (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the cherries. If using fresh cherries, pit them carefully, keeping the stems intact for easy dipping.
- Step 2:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 3:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together over a pot of gently simmering water (double boiler), stirring until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Step 4:
- Holding each cherry by the stem, dip it into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place the dipped cherry onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5:
- For extra flair, sprinkle some cherries with chopped pistachios or desiccated coconut before the chocolate sets.
- Step 6:
- Repeat until all cherries are coated. If desired, drizzle melted white chocolate over the bites for a decorative touch.
- Step 7:
- Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
- Step 8:
- To assemble the pyramid, arrange the chocolate-covered cherries in a pyramid shape on a serving platter: start with a base of 9 cherries, then 7, then 5, then 3, finishing with one at the top.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately or store, chilled, for up to 2 days.
Pin This Making these cherry bites has become a sweet family tradition; kids love helping with dipping and decorating.
Notes
Use a cherry pitter for clean and easy pitting. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Required Tools
Cherry pitter (if using fresh cherries), heatproof bowl, saucepan (for double boiler), baking sheet, parchment paper, small spoon (for drizzling and sprinkling garnishes)
Allergen Information
Contains: Tree nuts (if using pistachios), milk (if using butter, white chocolate, or milk chocolate). Dark chocolate may contain traces of milk or nuts; check labels if allergies are a concern.
Pin This This recipe combines simple ingredients for an elegant dessert; perfect for any special occasion or holiday gathering.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of chocolate works best for coating the cherries?
Dark chocolate with 60–70% cocoa content melts smoothly and offers a rich, balanced flavor ideal for coating cherries.
- → Can fresh cherries be used instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries with stems intact work well; just ensure they are pitted carefully and dried thoroughly before dipping.
- → How can I add extra texture to the chocolate-covered bites?
Sprinkling chopped pistachios or desiccated coconut onto the chocolate before it sets provides delightful crunch and visual contrast.
- → Is there a recommended way to arrange the chocolate-covered cherries for serving?
Arranging the coated cherries into a pyramid shape creates an impressive, elegant presentation that is perfect for gatherings.
- → What is the purpose of adding coconut oil or butter to the melted chocolate?
Adding coconut oil or unsalted butter helps achieve a smooth consistency and glossy finish for easy dipping and setting.
- → How long should the coated cherries be chilled?
Chilling for about 20 minutes allows the chocolate to fully set and firm up before serving or arranging.