Pin Luscious whole cherries wrapped in decadent chocolate, artfully arranged into a stunning pyramid for an unforgettable dessert centerpiece.
This recipe quickly became a favorite at family gatherings thanks to its combination of simplicity and impressive look.
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, 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 dessert always brings smiles when we serve it during special occasions.
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.
Nutritional Information (per bite)
Calories: 60, Total Fat: 3 g, Carbohydrates: 8 g, Protein: 1 g
Pin With these bites ready, your dessert table will be the star at any event.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of cherries work best for coating?
Fresh, firm cherries with stems are ideal, but well-drained maraschino cherries also work well for easy dipping.
- → How do I melt the chocolate properly?
Use a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring the chocolate and coconut oil until smooth without overheating.
- → Can I add flavor variations to these bites?
Yes, soaking cherries in kirsch or brandy before coating imparts an adult flavor twist.
- → What garnishes can enhance the texture?
Chopped pistachios, desiccated coconut, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate add appealing contrasts and decoration.
- → How long should the chocolate set before serving?
Chill the coated cherries for about 20 minutes until the chocolate is fully firm for the best texture.
- → Can these be made ahead and stored?
Yes, store the pyramid chilled for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and chocolate coating integrity.