These Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries are a classic, elegant dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe cherries with the richness of smooth, melted chocolate. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Perfect for gifting, entertaining, or adding a special touch to your dessert tray, this easy homemade dessert recipe is also a charming holiday or Valentine’s Day idea. The glossy finish and natural sweetness make these chocolate-covered cherries as beautiful as they are delicious.

Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 20 cherries
Ingredients List
• 20 fresh cherries with stems, washed and completely dried
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil or neutral vegetable oil
• Optional: crushed almonds, pistachios, or sea salt flakes for topping
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple with just a few kitchen basics.
• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
• Heatproof bowl
• Parchment-lined baking sheet
• Spoon or fork for dipping
• Refrigerator for setting the chocolate
Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Rinse and thoroughly dry the cherries. Ensure no moisture remains on the surface, as water can cause the chocolate to seize.
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate and coconut oil over a double boiler or in the microwave in 15–20 second bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Hold each cherry by its stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, swirling slightly to coat. Let any excess chocolate drip off.
- Place the dipped cherries onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. While still wet, sprinkle with crushed nuts or sea salt if desired.
- Refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
- Remove from the refrigerator and allow to sit for a few minutes at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Pro Tips
• For a more luxurious flavor, add a drop of almond extract to the melted chocolate.
• Try using white chocolate or ruby chocolate for a colorful twist.
• Always use firm, fresh cherries with stems attached for the best presentation and dipping control.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, uncovered, to prevent moisture buildup.
Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 cherries | ~95 | 1g | 11g | 6g | 1g | 9g |
Conclusion
These Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries are the definition of effortless elegance. With their glossy finish, juicy centers, and deep chocolate flavor, they make any occasion feel special. Ideal for parties, romantic dinners, or thoughtful homemade gifts, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Whether enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, this timeless treat is a delightful reminder that the best desserts often start with the simplest ingredients.

Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 pieces fresh cherries with stems, washed and completely dried Use firm, fresh cherries for best presentation.
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate Choose your favorite dark chocolate.
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or neutral vegetable oil Coconut oil helps to achieve a glossy finish.
Optional Toppings
- crushed almonds, pistachios, or sea salt flakes Sprinkle on top while chocolate is still wet.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse and thoroughly dry the cherries. Ensure no moisture remains on the surface, as water can cause the chocolate to seize.
Melting Chocolate
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate and coconut oil over a double boiler or in the microwave in 15–20 second bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Dipping Cherries
- Hold each cherry by its stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, swirling slightly to coat. Let any excess chocolate drip off.
- Place the dipped cherries onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. While still wet, sprinkle with crushed nuts or sea salt if desired.
Setting
- Refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
- Remove from the refrigerator and allow to sit for a few minutes at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
