Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Christmas Cherry Bombs are the perfect addition to any holiday celebration. Made with juicy maraschino cherries soaked in your favorite alcohol, these sweet and boozy treats are dipped in chocolate and decorated with festive toppings like sprinkles or shredded coconut. These little bites are easy to make and are always a crowd-pleaser, offering a fun and slightly indulgent twist for adults during the festive season.

Ingredients

• 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries with stems, drained
• 1 cup vodka or rum (or your favorite spirit)
• 1 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother dipping)
• Festive sprinkles, shredded coconut, or crushed nuts for decorating

Instructions

1. Soak the Cherries

• Drain the Cherries: Drain the maraschino cherries well and pat them dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can make the soaking process less effective and can interfere with the chocolate dipping process.
• Soak in Alcohol: Place the cherries in a bowl and pour the vodka or rum over them, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and let them soak in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours or up to overnight for a stronger flavor.

2. Drain and Dry

• Drain the Alcohol: Drain the cherries and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess alcohol. It’s important that they are as dry as possible to help the chocolate adhere properly.

3. Melt the Chocolate

• Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. You can also melt the chocolate over a double boiler if preferred.

4. Dip the Cherries

• Prepare Toppings: Set out bowls of festive sprinkles, shredded coconut, or crushed nuts for decorating.
• Dip Each Cherry: Hold each cherry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, making sure it is coated evenly. Let any excess chocolate drip off.
• Decorate: Immediately dip or roll the chocolate-covered cherry in your desired topping. Place each cherry on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set.

5. Chill and Serve

• Chill to Set: Once all the cherries are dipped and decorated, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely.
• Serve: Arrange the Christmas Cherry Bombs on a festive platter and serve chilled.

Cooking Notes

• Dry the Cherries: Make sure the cherries are well-drained and patted dry before dipping them in chocolate. Any moisture can cause the chocolate to seize or make it difficult to adhere properly.
• Alcohol Soaking Time: Adjust the soaking time based on how strong you want the alcohol flavor to be. A longer soak will result in a more potent cherry.

Variations

• Non-Alcoholic Version: If you’d like a non-alcoholic version, skip the alcohol soaking step and proceed directly to dipping the cherries in chocolate.
• White Chocolate Cherry Bombs: Use melted white chocolate instead of semisweet or dark chocolate for a different flavor and a festive look.
• Flavored Alcohol: Use flavored vodka (such as vanilla, cherry, or cinnamon) to add an extra layer of flavor to your cherry bombs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Christmas Cherry Bombs ahead of time?

Yes, these can be made ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes them an ideal make-ahead treat for holiday gatherings.

How do I store leftover Christmas Cherry Bombs?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They should be kept cold due to the chocolate coating and alcohol.

What type of alcohol works best for Cherry Bombs?

Vodka and rum are popular choices because they pair well with the sweetness of the cherries. However, you can use other spirits like whiskey, bourbon, or even amaretto for a unique twist.

Can I use cherries without stems?

Cherries with stems are easier to dip in chocolate, but if you only have cherries without stems, you can use a toothpick to help with dipping and then remove it after the chocolate has set.

What can I serve with Christmas Cherry Bombs?

These cherry bombs make a great addition to any dessert table. Serve them alongside other holiday treats like cookies, truffles, or chocolate-dipped pretzels.

Christmas Cherry Bombs are a festive and fun addition to any holiday gathering. With their boozy cherry center, chocolate coating, and festive decorations, these sweet treats are sure to impress your guests. Whether you make them for a party or give them as a holiday gift, these cherry bombs are easy to make and wonderfully indulgent.

Try this recipe, and enjoy the perfect combination of sweet, boozy cherries, rich chocolate, and festive toppings for a holiday treat that’s sure to delight!

Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!