Cherry Liqueur Chocolates

Combining fresh cherries, orange liqueur and chocolate, these Cherry Liqueur Chocolates make a perfect end to any meal or can be enjoyed on their own as a special treat.

The inspiration for these chocolates was actually a chocolate shop in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales where something similar was being sold for more than $100/kg ($50/lb.). Obviously I thought I could do better for a substantially lower cost. This recipe is the result.

Ingredients

• 12 Fresh Cherries with stalks still on
• ½ cup Dark or Milk Chocolate
• Cointreau or other Orange Liqueur
• Sprinkles (optional)

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Directions

Step 1

Take a sharp knife and score the cherry skins to allow the liqueur to penetrate the fruit.

Step 2

Place the cherries into a ramekin or other container and pour in enough of the Orange Liqueur so as to cover them. After doing this, put them aside and leave the Cherries to soak overnight.

Step 3

Melt the Chocolate. You can do this by using a double boiler over your stove top or by using a Microwave oven on a low power setting.

See the How to Melt Chocolate page if you are unsure how to do this.

Step 4

Remove the cherries and dry them off using paper towel. The cherries must be dry as if there is any liquid on them will ruin the melted chocolate when they are dipped.

Step 5

Coat the cherries with the melted chocolate. You can use a teaspoon to help ensure that they are completely coated.

Step 6

Once coated with chocolate, if you are using the optional sprinkles, using the stem dip the cherries into the container of sprinkles. The aim here is only to coat the bottom of the cherry.

Step 7

Next, lay the cherries out on a plate lined with grease proof paper. Make sure they do not touch each other.

When you have all of the cherries on the plate, move it to the fridge to cool and allow the chocolate to set properly.

Step 8

Once the chocolate has set completely they are ready to serve. They go together very well with Coffee after a meal or are delicious on their own as a special treat.

Notes: Retain the Orange Liqueur after you have removed the cherries. The flavour will be enhanced by the cherries so you can either drink it or use it for cooking.

If orange liqueur is not for you, you can substitute it for brandy, whisky or even vodka. All will work equally well, which you choose will depend on your personal taste.