Pin It Luscious whole cherries wrapped in decadent chocolate, artfully arranged into a stunning pyramid for an unforgettable dessert centerpiece.
This recipe is a favorite at parties and always impresses guests with its elegant presentation and delicious flavor combination.
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 It This dessert always steals the show at family gatherings with its delightful combination of flavors and elegant look.
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: 60 calories, 3 g total fat, 8 g carbohydrates, 1 g protein
Pin It This dessert is a perfect finish to any meal and sure to impress with minimal effort.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I ensure cherries are properly coated?
Dry cherries thoroughly before dipping to help chocolate adhere evenly without clumping.
- → Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes, milk or white chocolate can replace dark chocolate depending on preference.
- → What is the best way to arrange the bites into a pyramid?
Start with a base layer of nine bites, then stack progressively smaller layers to form a stable pyramid.
- → Are there optional garnishes to enhance flavor and texture?
Finely chopped pistachios, desiccated coconut, and white chocolate drizzle add extra appeal and taste.
- → How long can the bites be stored?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to two days to maintain freshness and texture.