Milk Chocolate Cherry Cordials – Guiltless Pleasure
Get ready for a sweet treat that will make your taste buds extremely happy: Milk chocolate cherry cordials.
These cordials are loved by everyone because they have a luscious, juicy cherry center wrapped in smooth fondant and coated in creamy milk chocolate.
They’re a delightful balance of sweetness and sometimes they also have a hint of cherry liqueur, making them perfect for gifts, holidays, or special treats!
Simply put, milk chocolate cherry cordials are loved by chocolate fans everywhere, especially when you realize a cordial has around 80 cal.
That way you can enjoy 2 or 3 without feeling too guilty.
What’s the history behind Cherry Cordials?
Cherry cordials started in European candy shops. They were a fancy treat for kings and rich people. Makers worked hard to make each candy, putting cherries in chocolate.
- European origins dating back to the 18th century
- Initially created as a luxury confection
- Evolved from medicinal liqueur-soaked fruits
The Ingredients that Make Them Special
What makes milk chocolate cherry cordials special is their mix. Each cordial has:
- Fresh, plump cherries
- Sweet cordial syrup
- Creamy milk chocolate coating
The magic is in how these mix. Cherries add a fruity taste, and milk chocolate makes it smooth. One bite shows why these candies are so loved.
Make Your Own Milk Chocolate Cherry Cordials
DIY chocolate making turns simple ingredients into amazing treats.
Making cherry cordials at home lets you create tasty candies in your own kitchen. With patience and care, you can make this candy recipe that wows everyone.
Making milk chocolate cherry cordials needs observing a few steps carefully.
But don’t worry too much, It might look hard, but breaking it down helps. This way, anyone can make these treats at home.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need (Makes about 24 cordials)
Cherry Center:
- 24 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- ¼ cup (60ml) cherry liqueur or brandy (optional, for extra flavor)
Fondant Layer:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cherry juice (from the jar)
Chocolate Coating:
- 10 oz (280g) high-quality milk chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother texture)
Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade Cordials
Prepare the Cherries
- Drain the maraschino cherries and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
- If using, soak them in cherry liqueur for 12-24 hours for a boozy touch, then drain and pat dry again.
Make the Fondant Coating
- In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, butter, corn syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and cherry juice until a smooth dough forms.
- If sticky, refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
Wrap Cherries in Fondant
- Take a small piece of fondant (about ½ teaspoon) and flatten it into a thin disk.
- Wrap the fondant around each cherry, fully covering it.
- Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes to set.
Melt the Chocolate
- Melt the milk chocolate with coconut oil using a double boiler or microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
Coat the Cordials
- Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each fondant-covered cherry into the melted chocolate, ensuring even coverage.
- Let excess chocolate drip off, then place back on the parchment-lined tray.
Let Them Set & Age
- Let the chocolates set at room temperature or refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- For the classic cordial experience, store in an airtight container for 5-7 days—this allows the fondant to break down into a delicious liquid center!
Pro tip: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for 3-4 months.
Storage Tips for Your Cherry Cordials
Keeping your milk chocolate cherry cordials fresh is key. Store them in a cool, dry spot. This keeps the chocolate from melting or getting a white film.
Storing candies right is an art. Put your cordials in a tight container to keep out moisture and sunlight. Don’t put them in the fridge unless you have to. This can make the chocolate look bad. If stored right, they stay tasty for up to two weeks.
Keeping Your Treats Fresh
Look out for signs your cordials are getting old. If they look different, smell bad, or have white spots, it’s time to throw them away. Any weird marks on the chocolate mean it’s been too hot or cold.
Why You’ll Love Milk Chocolate Cherry Cordials
Milk chocolate cherry cordials are the perfect mix for chocolate because of:
- Creamy chocolate that melts smoothly on your tongue.
- Burst of sweet cherry flavor in every bite.
- Perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Luxurious texture that delights the senses.
How to Savor Milk Chocolate Cherry Cordials
Enjoying cherry cordials is more than just eating. It’s a special way to enjoy a treat. It’s perfect for those who love chocolate or just sweet things. Knowing how to enjoy them can make your dessert time even better.
Chocolate pairings can make milk chocolate cherry cordials even tastier. Here are some great ways to enjoy them:
The Best Pairings with Cherry Cordials
- Pair with robust red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Complement with aged bourbon or cognac.
- Match with creamy cheeses such as brie or camembert.
- Serve alongside fresh berries for a fruity contrast.
Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion
- Dessert Parties: Create an elegant chocolate cordial platter
- Romantic Evenings: Present on a decorative plate with champagne
- Afternoon Tea: Serve as a sweet accompaniment to your favorite brew
- Gift Giving: Package in beautiful gift boxes for a memorable present
Let your milk chocolate cherry cordials sit at room temperature for 2-4 weeks before serving. This makes the center soft and creamy. It melts in your mouth, giving you a taste you’ll never forget.
Milk Chocolate Cherry Cordials for Special Occasions
Milk chocolate cherry cordials are a great gift for special times. They are perfect for romantic moments and holidays. Their taste and look make them a favorite.
Romantic Treats for Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is a time for something special. Chocolate cherry cordials are a lovely choice. They mix rich chocolate with sweet cherries, making a beautiful gift.
- Perfect for expressing romantic feelings
- Elegant packaging that impresses
- Rich, indulgent flavor profile
Holiday Gifts That Delight
These treats are great for more than just Valentine’s Day. They’re perfect for Christmas and birthdays too. The mix of chocolate and cherries makes a memorable gift.
- Christmas gift exchanges
- Birthday celebrations
- Anniversary surprises
They are especially loved during Christmas and Valentine’s Day. Many chocolate fans in the U.S. enjoy them as a tradition.
Creative Uses for Milk Chocolate Cherry Cordials
Milk chocolate cherry cordials are more than treats. They can make your desserts and drinks taste amazing. Let’s see how to use them in fun ways.
Adding milk chocolate cherry cordials to desserts makes them special. They can make your baking better with little effort. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Crush cordials as a topping for vanilla ice cream
- Chop and mix into brownie batter for unexpected bursts of flavor
- Use as decorative garnish on chocolate mousse
- Crumble over cheesecake for a sweet texture contrast
Do you love milk chocolate treats?
Then check out the recipe for Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups.
