# What You'll Need:
→ Cherries
01 - 24 fresh, firm cherries with stems, pitted (or high-quality maraschino cherries, well-drained)
→ Chocolate Coating
02 - 7 oz dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
03 - 1 tbsp coconut oil or unsalted butter
→ Garnishes
04 - 2 tbsp finely chopped pistachios
05 - 2 tbsp desiccated coconut
06 - 2 tbsp white chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
# How To Make It:
01 - Wash and thoroughly dry the cherries. If using fresh cherries, pit them carefully while keeping the stems intact for dipping.
02 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
03 - In a heatproof bowl over gently simmering water, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat.
04 - Hold each cherry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place coated cherries on the prepared baking sheet.
05 - Optionally sprinkle some cherries with finely chopped pistachios or desiccated coconut before the chocolate sets.
06 - Continue dipping all cherries. For decorative effect, drizzle melted white chocolate over the coated bites if desired.
07 - Refrigerate the coated cherries for 20 minutes, or until chocolate is fully firm.
08 - Arrange the chocolate-covered cherries on a serving platter to form a pyramid: base layer with 9 cherries, followed by 7, 5, 3, and a single one at the top.
09 - Serve immediately or keep chilled for up to 2 days.
