First, let me say thank you—thank you for showing up with a sweet tooth and an adventurous spirit! This recipe is a little nostalgic, a little indulgent, and absolutely worth the wait. Donna’s Chocolate-Covered Cherries are everything a homemade treat should be: simple, elegant, and unforgettable.
These cherries are the kind of recipe that feels like a holiday—whether it’s Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or just a cozy weekend project. They’re dipped in rich dark chocolate, wrapped in a silky almond-scented fondant, and finished with that beautiful cherry stem poking out. A total retro candy-shop vibe, but made right in your kitchen.
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What Are Donna’s Chocolate-Covered Cherries?
This is an easy, no-bake candy recipe where maraschino cherries are wrapped in a creamy almond fondant, then dipped in melted dark chocolate. After a few days in the fridge, the sugar mixture slightly liquifies, giving you that iconic gooey center—just like the boxed version, but so much better.
This is a family recipe from Donna, and honestly, I’m kicking myself for not having shot it sooner. It’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or sneaking from the fridge one by one (no judgment!).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-bake & no fuss: Just a little rolling and dipping!
- Classic flavor: That almond-cherry combo is divine.
- Great for gifting: These keep beautifully and look adorable.
- Nostalgic: Brings back sweet childhood memories—minus the preservatives.
What Do They Taste Like?
Bite in and you get that crisp snap of dark chocolate, followed by a creamy, almond-scented fondant, and finally the sweet pop of a maraschino cherry. It’s rich and sweet without being overwhelming. Let them sit for a few days, and they get even better as the fondant melts slightly into a luscious, syrupy center.
In a word: addictive.
Benefits of Making Homemade Chocolate-Covered Cherries
- Gluten-free & vegetarian
- Make-ahead friendly – gets better with time!
- Budget-friendly gift idea
- Customizable with chocolate types or flavorings
Ingredients You’ll Need
🍒 For the Fondant:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp whole milk
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
🍒 For the Filling:
- 2 (10 oz) jars maraschino cherries with stems, drained and patted dry
🍫 For the Coating:
- 12 oz dark chocolate melting wafers (or semi-sweet chips)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (for a smooth, glossy finish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl & spatula
- Baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- Toothpicks (optional for dipping)
- Small cookie scoop or teaspoon
Ingredient Swaps & Customizations
- No almond extract? Use vanilla or cherry extract for a different twist.
- Want them boozy? Soak cherries in a splash of brandy before wrapping!
- No dark chocolate? Milk chocolate works beautifully—just a bit sweeter.
- Dairy-free version? Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate.
How to Make Donna’s Chocolate-Covered Cherries
Step 1: Make the Fondant
In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract. Mix until a smooth, soft dough forms. It should feel like play-dough—pliable, not sticky. If too soft, chill it briefly.
Step 2: Wrap the Cherries
Using a teaspoon or small scoop, form a ball of fondant and flatten slightly. Place a cherry (stem up) in the center, then wrap and smooth the fondant around it to cover. Place each wrapped cherry on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all cherries are wrapped.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
Using a double boiler (or microwave in 30-second intervals), melt the dark chocolate wafers with coconut oil until smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Dip the Cherries
Holding each cherry by the stem, dip into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Let excess chocolate drip off, then return to the baking sheet.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
📌 For best results, store them for 1–3 days before serving to allow the fondant to liquefy slightly around the cherry!
What to Serve With These Chocolate Cherries
- A chilled glass of Prosecco or red wine
- A tray of assorted truffles or holiday cookies
- As part of a dessert charcuterie board (yes, that’s a thing!)
- In a pretty tin as a gift or favor
Tips for Success
- Dry those cherries well! Excess moisture = chocolate that won’t stick.
- Chill between steps if the fondant gets too sticky.
- Use good-quality chocolate for the best snap and shine.
- Let them age a few days for that irresistible gooey center.
How to Store Chocolate-Covered Cherries
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
They’re delicious straight from the fridge—like a secret stash of chocolate treasure!
FAQs About Donna’s Chocolate-Covered Cherries
Do I have to wait before eating them?
You can eat them right away, but they’re best after 1–2 days when the fondant softens into that classic liquid center.
Can I use cherries without stems?
Yes, but dipping is trickier. Use a toothpick for easier handling.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely—just sub in dairy-free butter and chocolate!
Will these travel well for gifting?
Yes! Pack them in paper cups inside a tin or small gift box for a beautiful presentation.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about Donna’s Chocolate-Covered Cherries. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a special gift, or just because you can’t resist that cherry-chocolate combo, they’re a treat that never goes out of style.
They’re heartfelt, homemade, and truly memorable—and now you can make them, too.
More Old-School Treats to Try Next
- 🍫 Fudgy Walnut Brownies
- 🍒 Cherry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
- 🍬 Homemade Chocolate Truffles
- 🎁 5-Ingredient Chocolate Bark for Gifting
Let’s Make Sweet Memories Together! 📸
Tried Donna’s recipe? Leave a review, pin it to Pinterest, or tag your sweet creations with #MmmRecipes on Instagram! I love seeing how you make these your own.
Nutritional Info (Per Cherry)
- Calories: 83
- Fat: 4.2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Carbs: 11g
- Protein: 0.6g
- Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
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