Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled (Recipe for Printing)

These chocolate cherry treats combine maraschino cherries, cocoa, cream cheese, and almond for a delightful winter or holiday dessert. Perfect for sharing at events or January gatherings. Save & click.

# What You Need:

→ Base Dough

01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1 pinch salt

→ Filling

07 - 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
08 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
09 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
10 - 1 teaspoon almond extract

→ Chocolate Coating

11 - 1 cup dark chocolate chips
12 - 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoothness)

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar, softened unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the dough is smooth and cohesive. If the mixture appears dry, incorporate one teaspoon of milk to achieve the desired softness.
02 - Take approximately one tablespoon of dough and flatten it into a small disk. Place one maraschino cherry in the center, then gently wrap the dough around the cherry, ensuring it is fully enclosed. Roll into a ball and set aside.
03 - In a separate bowl, blend softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and almond extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and add more powdered sugar if a sweeter flavor is preferred.
04 - Using your finger, make a shallow indentation in the top of each dough ball. Fill each hollow with a small spoonful of the cream cheese mixture.
05 - Arrange the filled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help the treats retain their shape.
06 - While the dough balls chill, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring between sessions until smooth. For a lighter texture, stir in coconut oil if desired.
07 - Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork to lift and allow excess chocolate to drip off. Return to the parchment paper.
08 - Optionally, garnish the chocolate-coated bombs with colored sprinkles before the chocolate sets for added festive visual appeal.
09 - Let the coated confections rest at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate has fully solidified, about 30 minutes.
10 - Once the coating is hardened, transfer Cherry Bombs to a serving dish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Select high-quality dark chocolate for optimal flavor and smooth coating.
02 - Different extracts, such as vanilla or peppermint, can be used to vary filling flavor.
03 - Proper chilling before coating ensures the treats maintain their round shape during dipping.
04 - To make ahead, prepare and refrigerate several days in advance for intensified flavor.