Few confections capture the magic of luxurious, handcrafted chocolate quite like cherry cordials. These rich, chocolate-covered treats are more than just candies—they are an experience. With their smooth chocolate shell, a burst of sweet cherry, and a luscious liquid center, cherry cordials are the perfect combination of elegance and indulgence.
Whether you’re making them as a holiday gift, a romantic Valentine’s treat, or a gourmet dessert, creating cherry cordials at home is both a rewarding and satisfying process. In this article, we’ll explore the history of cherry cordials, their cultural significance, variations of the classic recipe, tips for success, and frequently asked questions about making these delicious confections.
The History of Cherry Cordials: A Timeless Classic
The term “cordial” originates from the Latin word “cordialis,” meaning heartwarming. Historically, cordials were alcoholic medicinal tonics, often infused with fruit and herbs, believed to have healing properties. Over time, these cordials evolved into liqueur-filled chocolates, with cherries being one of the most popular flavor choices.
The modern cherry cordial, as we know it today, became a staple in European confectionery during the 18th and 19th centuries. French and Swiss chocolatiers refined the technique of enrobing whole cherries in chocolate, creating luxurious bonbons filled with either cherry-flavored syrup or a brandy-infused liquid center. These treats quickly gained popularity across Europe and made their way to America, where they were adapted into a non-alcoholic version, often using maraschino cherries and a sugar-based fondant center.
Today, cherry cordials remain a cherished classic, found in gourmet chocolate shops, holiday gift boxes, and homemade confectionery projects. Making them from scratch allows for a more flavorful, authentic experience, free from preservatives and artificial ingredients.
Ingredients:
For the Fondant:
- ¼ cup water
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup light corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry liquid
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon invertase
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
For the Cherries:
- 36 maraschino cherries (with or without stems)
For the Coating:
- 24 ounces coating chocolate or almond bark, chopped
Directions:
- Prepare the Cherries:
- Drain maraschino cherries, reserving 2 tablespoons of the liquid.
- Pat the cherries dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Make the Fondant:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine water, sugar, corn syrup, and cherry liquid.
- Heat over medium until boiling, brushing the sides of the pan with a damp pastry brush to prevent crystallization.
- Use a candy thermometer to cook the syrup until it reaches 240-244°F (soft ball stage).
- Pour onto a greased baking sheet and cool to 120°F before transferring to a mixer.
- Beat until the mixture turns opaque and smooth. Refrigerate until needed.
- Coat Cherries in Fondant:
- Warm the fondant until it flows smoothly. Stir in invertase and almond extract.
- Dip each cherry into the fondant and place it on a greased baking sheet.
- Dip in Chocolate:
- Melt coating chocolate or almond bark in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Dip the bottoms of the fondant-covered cherries first, let them set, then fully coat each cherry.
- Let the Cordials Mature:
- Store in an airtight container for 48 hours to 3 weeks to allow the invertase to liquefy the fondant.
Nutritional Info (Per Cherry Cordial):
- Calories: ~80
- Fat: ~4g
- Carbohydrates: ~11g
- Sugar: ~9g
- Protein: ~1g
Why Cherry Cordials Are a Must-Try Homemade Treat
There are countless reasons to try your hand at making homemade cherry cordials, but here are just a few:
1. A True Confectionery Art Form
Crafting cherry cordials is like stepping into the world of professional chocolatiers. The process—from preparing the smooth fondant to dipping the cherries in rich chocolate—is a skill that requires patience but delivers stunningly delicious results.
2. A Sensory Delight
Few sweets offer such a delightful contrast in textures: the crisp chocolate shell, the burst of juicy cherry, and the smooth, flowing liquid center create an unforgettable experience.
3. Customizable for Any Occasion
- Holiday gifts? Wrap them in decorative boxes and ribbons.
- Valentine’s Day? Use dark chocolate and dust with edible gold flakes.
- Gourmet dessert platters? Pair with other handmade truffles and chocolates.
4. Better Than Store-Bought
Unlike mass-produced versions, homemade cherry cordials use high-quality ingredients, ensuring better flavor and texture without unwanted additives.
5. A Fun and Rewarding Kitchen Project
Candy-making can be intimidating, but cherry cordials are an excellent beginner-friendly challenge that lets you experiment with chocolate tempering, sugar syrups, and creative fillings.
Variations of Cherry Cordials
One of the best parts about making homemade cherry cordials is the endless ways to customize them. Whether you prefer a classic version or something more experimental, there are plenty of options to explore.
1. Classic Alcoholic Cherry Cordials
For a more traditional approach, soak the cherries in kirsch (cherry brandy), amaretto, or bourbon for several days before enrobing them in fondant and chocolate. This creates a boozy, complex flavor reminiscent of old-world European confections.
2. Dark Chocolate vs. Milk Chocolate vs. White Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) – A rich, bittersweet contrast to the sweet cherry and syrup.
- Milk Chocolate – A creamy, sweeter option that complements the fruity center.
- White Chocolate – A unique twist that highlights the cherry’s tartness.
3. Cherry Cordials with Different Fillings
- Caramel-Infused Cherry Cordials – A decadent caramel layer inside adds a luxurious twist.
- Spiced Cherry Cordials – Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for warmth and spice.
- Vanilla Bean Fondant Cherry Cordials – Use vanilla bean paste in the fondant for a richer, creamier center.
4. Sugar-Free or Vegan Cherry Cordials
- Use sugar-free chocolate and stevia-based fondant for a diabetic-friendly version.
- For a vegan alternative, opt for dairy-free dark chocolate and coconut-based fondant.
5. Luxe Garnishes
- Sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
- Drizzle with gold or silver luster dust for an elegant finish.
- Roll in crushed nuts or cocoa powder for added texture.
Expert Tips for the Best Cherry Cordials
Making cherry cordials at home is a labor of love, but with the right techniques, you’ll achieve professional-quality results.
1. Dry the Cherries Properly
Moisture is the enemy of chocolate. Thoroughly dry your cherries before dipping them in fondant to ensure proper adhesion and prevent leakage.
2. Master the Fondant for a Liquid Center
The secret to a smooth, liquefied center is invertase, an enzyme that breaks down the sugar in the fondant over time. Be patient! Letting the cordials mature for a few days to a few weeks allows the magic to happen.
3. Use High-Quality Chocolate
For a silky-smooth coating, choose coating chocolate or tempered couverture chocolate. Avoid standard chocolate chips, as they contain stabilizers that affect texture and consistency.
4. Keep the Chocolate at the Right Temperature
If the chocolate is too hot, it will melt the fondant. If it’s too cold, it won’t coat smoothly. Work with melted chocolate at 88-90°F for the best results.
5. Store for Maximum Flavor
Cherry cordials taste best after maturing for at least 48 hours. For a fully liquid center, let them sit for up to 3 weeks in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long do homemade cherry cordials last?
Properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last up to 3 weeks. Refrigeration is not recommended, as it can cause chocolate bloom.
2. Can I skip the fondant?
Skipping the fondant means losing the liquid center. However, you can simply dip cherries in melted chocolate for a solid chocolate cherry bite.
3. What is invertase, and where can I buy it?
Invertase is an enzyme that turns fondant into a syrupy liquid over time. It can be found at specialty baking supply stores or online.
4. Can I make cherry cordials without alcohol?
Absolutely! The maraschino cherry liquid provides plenty of flavor without alcohol.
5. Why is my chocolate cracking after dipping?
This usually happens if the cherries are too cold or if the chocolate has cooled too much before dipping. Allow cherries to come to room temperature before coating.
Conclusion: Why Cherry Cordials Are Worth the Effort
Cherry cordials are more than just a sweet treat—they are a timeless, elegant confection that brings a sense of tradition and craftsmanship to your kitchen. The combination of silky chocolate, a juicy cherry, and a liquid-filled center makes them a show-stopping dessert for any occasion.
Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur or an adventurous home baker, making cherry cordials from scratch allows you to appreciate the true artistry of candy-making. So gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and create a batch of homemade cherry cordials that will impress everyone who tastes them.
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Homemade Cherry Cordials – Easy & Decadent
- Total Time: 2-3 days
- Yield: 36 cherry cordials 1x
Description
Treat yourself to the ultimate indulgence with these homemade cherry cordials. Juicy maraschino cherries are wrapped in a creamy fondant, then dipped in rich chocolate to create a melt-in-your-mouth candy with a sweet, liquid center. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or as a luxurious dessert, these cherry cordials are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Ingredients
For the Fondant:
- ¼ cup water
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup light corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry liquid
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon invertase
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
For the Cherries:
- 36 maraschino cherries, with or without stems
For the Coating:
- 24 ounces coating chocolate or almond bark, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries:
- Drain the maraschino cherries and reserve 2 tablespoons of the liquid.
- Lay the cherries on paper towels and pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Fondant:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine water, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and cherry liquid. Heat over medium heat until it begins to boil.
- Use a candy thermometer and cook the mixture until it reaches 240-244°F (soft ball stage), about 5-8 minutes.
- Pour the hot syrup onto a greased baking sheet and let it cool to 120°F, about 20-30 minutes.
- Transfer the cooled syrup to a stand mixer with the paddle attachment and beat on medium speed until it becomes opaque and smooth. Refrigerate the fondant in an airtight container until ready to use.
- Dip Cherries in Fondant:
- Warm the fondant in the microwave or over a double boiler until it flows smoothly. Stir in invertase and almond extract.
- Holding each cherry by the stem or with a toothpick, dip it into the fondant, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the dipped cherries on a greased baking sheet to set.
- Coat with Chocolate:
- Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
- Dip the bottoms of the fondant-coated cherries in chocolate and let them set. Then dip the entire cherry, ensuring a full coating. Place on parchment paper to cool and set completely.
- Allow to Mature:
- Store the cherry cordials in an airtight container for at least 48 hours (or up to 3 weeks) to allow the invertase to liquefy the fondant.
Notes
- Invertase Importance: Invertase is essential for creating the liquid center. You can find it online or in specialty baking stores.
- Storage: Keep the cherry cordials in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 weeks.
- Chocolate Tips: Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Coating chocolate or almond bark melts easily and sets well.
- Variations: Experiment with white or dark chocolate coatings, or add a pinch of sea salt on top for a gourmet twist.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Additional Time: 48 hours or more
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Candy-Making
- Cuisine: American
