Here’s a delightful recipe for Cherry Bombs perfect for Christmas:
Ingredients:
- One jar of half-dozen maraschino cherries (with stems still attached)
- 1 cup of white candy melts or white chocolate chips
- One-third cup of crushed peppermint candy
Preparation:
- Get Cherries Ready: After draining, use paper towels to dry the maraschino cherries thoroughly. It’s important to ensure they are dry for the chocolate to adhere well.
- Dissolve the White Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally in 15- to 20-second bursts until completely melted and smooth. Be cautious, as white chocolate can burn easily.
- Let the Cherries Soak: Dip each cherry, stem-side down, into the melted white chocolate until it covers about three-quarters of the cherry.
- Add Peppermint Crunch: Quickly dip or sprinkle the chocolate-coated cherry into the crushed peppermint candies to ensure they stick well.
- Assemble the Cherry Bombs: Place each dipped cherry on a parchment or wax-lined baking sheet.
- Put in the Fridge: Chill the cherry bombs for about 10 to 15 minutes until the chocolate sets.
- Get it and Enjoy: Arrange them on a colorful platter and enjoy the festive flavors!
Changes and Hints:
Feel free to experiment with different coatings for a unique twist! Using milk or dark chocolate can add a richer flavor, and sprinkling contrasting chocolate on top can enhance their appearance. Enjoy your festive baking!
Here are some variations and tips for your Cherry Bombs:
Variations:
- Chocolate Coatings: Instead of just white chocolate, try using milk or dark chocolate for a richer taste. You can also mix different types of chocolate for a marbled effect.
- Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for an extra minty flavor.
- Different Toppings: Experiment with other toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even drizzles of caramel or chocolate for added texture and flavor.
Tips:
- Drying the Cherries: Make sure the cherries are completely dry before dipping to ensure the chocolate sticks well.
- Chilling Time: If you want the chocolate to set faster, you can place them in the freezer for a few minutes instead of the fridge.
- Presentation: For a festive touch, consider using colored sprinkles or edible glitter to decorate the cherry bombs before serving.
To store your Cherry Bombs, follow these steps:
- Cool Completely: Make sure the cherry bombs are fully cooled and the chocolate has set before storing them.
- Use an Airtight Container: Place the cherry bombs in a single layer in an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. This will help keep the chocolate firm and maintain the freshness of the cherries.
- Consume Within a Week: For the best taste and texture, try to enjoy them within a week.
If you want to reheat them, let them sit at room temperature for a bit to soften slightly before serving. Enjoy!