Introduction
Are you looking for a delightful treat to make this Christmas season? Homemade Cherry Chocolate Candies are the perfect choice for spreading joy and sweetness during the festive period. These delectable candies combine the rich flavors of chocolate with the fruity sweetness of cherries, creating a mouthwatering combination that will impress your family and friends. Whether you want to indulge in a sweet treat yourself or present a thoughtful homemade gift, these Cherry Chocolate Candies are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Before you begin making your Homemade Cherry Chocolate Candies, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Make sure you have the following items on hand:
Semi-sweet chocolate chips, Maraschino cherries, Sweetened condensed milk, Vanilla extract, Almond extract, Butter, Powdered sugar, Salt
These simple yet flavorful ingredients will come together to create a decadent treat that is perfect for the holiday season.
Steps
Creating your Homemade Cherry Chocolate Candies is a fun and rewarding process that anyone can enjoy. Follow these simple steps to make your own batch:
1. Drain the Maraschino cherries and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
3. Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, butter, and salt to the melted chocolate. Stir until well combined.
4. Take a cherry, dip it into the chocolate mixture, and coat it completely. Place the coated cherry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Repeat the process with the remaining cherries and chocolate mixture.
6. Refrigerate the candies for at least 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set.
Variations
While the classic Cherry Chocolate Candies are delicious on their own, you can always get creative with different variations to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas to customize your candies:
– Roll the finished candies in chopped nuts for added crunch
– Drizzle white chocolate over the candies for a decorative touch
– Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor
Feel free to experiment with various toppings and coatings to make your Cherry Chocolate Candies truly unique!
Tips
For the best results when making Homemade Cherry Chocolate Candies, keep these tips in mind:
– Use high-quality chocolate for a rich and smooth finish
– Ensure the cherries are well-drained to prevent the chocolate from seizing
– Store the candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness
By following these tips, you’ll create perfect Cherry Chocolate Candies every time!
Conclusion
Homemade Cherry Chocolate Candies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. With their decadent chocolate coating and sweet cherry filling, these candies are sure to be a hit at any Christmas gathering. Whether you enjoy them yourself or share them with loved ones, these homemade treats are a delicious way to spread holiday cheer. Get creative with variations and toppings to make your Cherry Chocolate Candies even more special!
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of Maraschino cherries?
A: While Maraschino cherries are commonly used for this recipe, you can experiment with fresh cherries if you prefer. Just make sure to pit them before dipping them in chocolate.
Q: How long do Homemade Cherry Chocolate Candies last?
A: When stored properly in the refrigerator, these candies can last up to two weeks. However, they are best enjoyed fresh.
Q: Can I freeze Cherry Chocolate Candies?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze these candies as the texture may change once thawed. It’s best to enjoy them within a few days of making them.
Homemade Cherry Chocolate Candies for Christmas
Delightful Cherry Chocolate Candies perfect for spreading joy and sweetness during the festive Christmas season. These delectable candies combine rich chocolate flavors with fruity cherries for a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients
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2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1 can Maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
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1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon almond extract
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1 tablespoon butter
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
Directions
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Drain the Maraschino cherries and pat them dry with a paper towel.
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In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
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Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, butter, and salt to the melted chocolate. Stir until well combined.
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Take a cherry, dip it into the chocolate mixture, and coat it completely. Place the coated cherry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Repeat the process with the remaining cherries and chocolate mixture.
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Refrigerate the candies for at least 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set.
