If you’re looking for a festive and easy-to-make holiday treat, these Christmas Cherry Bombs are the perfect choice! They’re sweet, tart, and coated in a delightful mix of white chocolate and crushed peppermint, making them an ideal bite-sized dessert for holiday gatherings. The bright red cherries paired with a snowy white chocolate coating will stand out on your dessert table and add a pop of Christmas spirit!
Ingredients:
- 1 jar (16 oz) maraschino cherries with stems, drained and patted dry
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or white candy melts
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Optional: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil (to thin chocolate for easier dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Cherries:
- Drain the maraschino cherries well and gently pat them dry with paper towels. You want them completely dry to help the chocolate adhere better.
- Melt the White Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips or candy melts in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval, until smooth and fully melted. If the chocolate seems too thick, you can add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or coconut oil to help thin it out.
- Crush the Peppermint:
- Place peppermint candies or candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin or the back of a spoon. You want small, fine pieces that will stick to the chocolate coating.
- Dip the Cherries:
- Hold each cherry by the stem and dip it halfway into the melted white chocolate, letting any excess chocolate drip off. Immediately roll or sprinkle the dipped cherry in the crushed peppermint candies to coat the bottom half. Place the dipped cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Set the Coating:
- Once all the cherries are dipped and coated, place them in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
Tips & Variations:
- Peppermint Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can substitute with crushed graham crackers, sprinkles, or finely chopped nuts for a different flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: These Christmas Cherry Bombs can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
- Decorating Fun: Feel free to drizzle the tops with additional melted chocolate (red or green candy melts for extra holiday flair).
- Alcohol Twist: For a grown-up version, soak the cherries in rum or brandy for a few hours before drying them and proceeding with the recipe.
Nutritional Information (per cherry bomb):
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Cherry Bombs as a fun dessert at your Christmas party or as part of a holiday dessert platter. They also make a wonderful edible gift when wrapped up in a festive box or bag.
Beverage Pairing:
Enjoy these treats with a cup of hot chocolate, peppermint mocha, or even a glass of bubbly for a festive touch!
Final Thoughts:
Christmas Cherry Bombs are not only delicious but incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for the busy holiday season. With their festive colors and refreshing peppermint crunch, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Get creative with your coatings and enjoy these delightful little treats all season long!
