Chocolate-Covered Cherry Balls

INTRODUCTION

Chocolate-covered cherry balls are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of chocolate with the burst of juicy cherries. These delightful bites are perfect for dessert tables, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack to enjoy at home. They are easy to make and bring a smile to anyone’s face. In this article, we will explore this delicious recipe so you can enjoy these sweet treats.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love chocolate-covered cherry balls. First, they are a fun fusion of flavors. The cream cheese mixture pairs perfectly with the tart maraschino cherries. Plus, the rich chocolate coating adds a touch of luxury to each bite. They look beautiful on a plate, making them perfect for parties or gifting to friends and family.

Another great reason to enjoy this recipe is how simple it is. Even if you’re not a skilled baker, you can create this tasty treat with just a few basic ingredients and steps. Lastly, these cherry balls have a nice crunch from the almonds, which contrasts perfectly with the creamy center and juicy cherry. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will make you come back for more.

HOW TO MAKE Chocolate-Covered Cherry Balls

Making chocolate-covered cherry balls is straightforward. You will find the steps easy to follow, and you can get your family or friends involved in the process. This way, it becomes a fun activity. The end result will be worth the effort! Here’s how you do it.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make chocolate-covered cherry balls, you will need the following equipment:

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Waxed paper or parchment paper
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Freezer-safe container (if needed)

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful treats, gather the following ingredients:

• 40 gingersnap cookies
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, divided
• 1-1/4 cups sliced almonds, divided
• 2 tablespoons chopped candied orange peel
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 60 maraschino cherries, stems removed

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Start by placing the gingersnap cookies, softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of sliced almonds, the chopped candied orange peel, and almond extract in a food processor. Blend these ingredients until everything is combined well.

2. After the mixture is smooth, transfer it to a bowl and refrigerate it. Let it chill until it is firm enough to form into balls. Usually, this takes about 30 minutes.

3. While the mixture is chilling, pat the maraschino cherries dry with paper towels. Drying the cherries removes excess liquid, which helps the mixture stick better.

4. Once the cream cheese mixture is firm, use a rounded tablespoon of it to wrap around each cherry. Shape the cream cheese mixture into a neat ball around the cherry. Repeat this process until all cherries are covered.

5. Now, place the cherry balls in the freezer. Let them freeze until they are firm, which will take about 20 minutes.

6. While waiting for the balls to freeze, chop the remaining sliced almonds and set them aside. This will be used for topping the balls later.

7. In a double boiler, melt the remaining chocolate chips. Stir them continuously until they are smooth and melted. If you do not have a double boiler, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between.

8. After the chocolate is melted, take the cherry balls out of the freezer. Dip each ball in chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off gently.

9. Sprinkle the tops of the chocolate-covered cherry balls with the chopped almonds.

10. Place the decorated balls on a sheet of waxed paper.

11. Finally, refrigerate the cherry balls until the chocolate coating has set. This usually takes about 1 hour.

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HOW TO SERVE Chocolate-Covered Cherry Balls

Once your chocolate-covered cherry balls are ready, you can serve them in a variety of ways. They look great arranged on a dessert platter or in a decorative bowl. You can offer them as a snack during a movie night or as a sweet ending to a dinner party.

For added flair, you might consider drizzling some extra melted chocolate over the top or adding a few sprigs of fresh mint on the side. These little touches can make your treat stand out even more.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Chocolate-Covered Cherry Balls

You can store chocolate-covered cherry balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. They freeze well and can last for up to 2 months. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container and separate each layer with waxed paper to prevent sticking.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours. This is a great way to always have a sweet treat on hand.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Chocolate-covered cherry balls make a perfect dessert for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve them at holiday gatherings or potlucks.
• Pair them with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.
• Present them as party favors at weddings or birthdays.
• Enjoy them yourself as a decadent treat after dinner.

VARIATIONS

You can get creative with your chocolate-covered cherry balls. Here are some fun variations:

• Different Nuts: Swap the almonds for other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts.
• Flavored Chocolate: Use white chocolate or dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate for a different taste.
• Add Spices: Mix in a little cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a unique twist.
• Fruit Alternatives: Experiment with other fruits such as strawberries or raspberries for a fresh take.

FAQs

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1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used, but you will need to remove the pits and may need to adjust the recipe slightly to account for the moisture in fresh fruits.

2. How long do the chocolate-covered cherry balls need to chill before dipping?
They need to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before forming into balls and then can be frozen for about 20 minutes before dipping in chocolate.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate chips to make this a suitable option for those avoiding dairy products.

4. How can I tell when the chocolate has set?
The chocolate will look firm and no longer shiny. It should feel firm to the touch without smudging when it is set.

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MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chocolate-Covered Cherry Balls

To save time, you can make the cream cheese mixture a day ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator. You can also form the balls and freeze them a day before dipping them in chocolate. Just remember to give them enough time to chill and set after chocolate coating. Preparing in advance makes it easy to enjoy these delicious treats whenever you want!

With this detailed guide, you are now ready to make your own chocolate-covered cherry balls. Have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the wonderful taste of these sweet, creamy delights!

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