Ingredients:

  • 24 fresh cherries, with stems intact (about 340g/12oz)
  • 4 tablespoons (60ml) of Brandy, Kirsch, or cherry juice
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) unsalted butter, softened (43g/1.5oz)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) light corn syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups (240g/8.5oz) powdered sugar, sifted, plus more as needed
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) of milk or heavy cream (start with 1 tablespoon and add more if needed)
  • 12 ounces (340g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Gently wash and pat dry cherries. If using alcohol (like brandy), soak cherries in the alcohol, then pat dry.
  2. Cream butter, corn syrup, almond extract and salt until smooth. Slowly add sifted powdered sugar and milk, mixing until a smooth, pliable dough forms. If it's too sticky, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
  3. Take a small amount of fondant (about 1 tablespoon) and flatten it slightly. Place a cherry in the center and gently mold the fondant around the cherry, leaving the stem exposed. Ensure the cherry is completely sealed to prevent leakage.
  4. Place the fondant-covered cherries on the prepared baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm.
  5. In a double boiler or heat-safe bowl set over simmering water, melt the chocolate and shortening (if using), stirring occasionally until smooth and glossy. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
  6. Using a toothpick or dipping tool, dip each chilled cherry into the melted chocolate, ensuring it's completely coated. Gently tap off any excess chocolate.
  7. Place the dipped cherries back on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts, sea salt, or other toppings while the chocolate is still wet.
  8. Refrigerate the chocolate-covered cherries for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
  9. Once the chocolate is set, the Chocolate Covered Cherries are ready to serve. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for best results.