Introduction

Christmas Cherry Bombs are a festive and fun holiday treat that combines the sweetness of maraschino cherries with the cool, refreshing flavor of peppermint. Coated in creamy white chocolate and sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies, these bite-sized delights are perfect for parties and gift-giving during the holidays.

The image shows a round white plate filled with about a dozen bright red cherries, each dipped halfway in smooth, white chocolate. The white chocolate coating covers the bottom half of each cherry and is sprinkled with crushed red and white peppermint candy pieces, adding a textured, snowy look. The cherries have long, thin red stems that curve in different directions, making the scene look natural and lively. The plate is set on a shiny white marbled surface with soft lighting that highlights the glossy shine of the cherries and the creamy texture of the chocolate. Scattered peppermint candies add a festive touch in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

10 ounces maraschino cherries with stems
¼ cup peppermint schnapps

5 ounces white chocolate melting discs
¼ cup peppermint candies, finely crushed (about 10-12 pieces)

Instructions

Step 1: Remove the lid from the jar of maraschino cherries, saving the lid, and drain out ¼ cup of the cherry juice while keeping the cherries inside the jar.
Step 2: Pour ¼ cup of peppermint schnapps into the jar with the cherries. Replace the lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to let the cherries soak and absorb the peppermint flavor.

Step 3: After soaking, carefully remove the cherries from the jar and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
Step 4: Line a rimmed tray with parchment paper and set it aside for placing the dipped cherries.
Step 5: In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate discs by microwaving at 50% power for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir well, then continue microwaving in 15-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.

Step 6: Holding a dry cherry by the stem, dip it into the melted white chocolate, covering about three-quarters of the cherry.
Step 7: Immediately dip the bottom of the chocolate-covered cherry into the crushed peppermint candies. Place the cherry on the prepared tray with the stem pointing upward. Repeat with all cherries.
Step 8: Refrigerate the tray of cherry bombs for 30 minutes to set the chocolate before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger peppermint flavor, let the cherries soak overnight in the schnapps mixture.
If you prefer non-alcoholic treats, substitute peppermint extract mixed with cherry juice instead of schnapps.
Use candy canes crushed finely instead of peppermint candies for a different texture and presentation.

Make sure the cherries are completely dry before dipping to help the chocolate adhere better.

Storage

Store the Christmas Cherry Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can be enjoyed chilled or brought to room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften the white chocolate slightly. Avoid freezing as it can affect the texture of the chocolate coating.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a bright red cherry with a smooth, shiny surface and a long thin red stem held gently by a woman's hand. The bottom half of the cherry is covered in a thick white coating that looks creamy, sprinkled with small white crunchy bits giving texture contrast. In the softly blurred background, several similar cherries stand upright on a white marbled surface, their red colors vivid against the light background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Maraschino cherries are preferred because they are already sweetened and preserved, which works well for this recipe. Fresh cherries won’t have the same sweetness or texture and may not soak up the schnapps as effectively.

What if I don’t have peppermint schnapps?

You can substitute peppermint extract diluted in a little cherry juice or even use a peppermint-flavored syrup. Keep in mind that the flavor intensity may vary, so adjust to taste and avoid over-flavoring.