Save There is something magical about tucking creamy chocolate inside ripe summer cherries and freezing them until they are just the right mix of firm and melt-in-your-mouth. Cherry chocolate frozen bites feel like a treat that takes almost no effort yet always impresses guests.
I fell for this recipe after a friend brought a batch to a picnic. Ever since then these bites show up in my freezer every cherry season.
Ingredients
- Fresh large cherries: I always pick the firmest darkest cherries without blemishes for the best pop of flavor
- Dark chocolate chips: Use good quality chocolate with at least 60 percent cocoa for rich flavor
- Heavy cream or coconut cream: A splash adds silkiness to the ganache go for full-fat options for best texture
- Cocoa powder (optional): For dusting adds a slightly bitter edge that balances the sweetness
Instructions
- Pit the Cherries:
- Use a cherry pitter to carefully remove the pits while keeping the cherries whole. If you do not have a pitter a sturdy straw or chopstick can do the trick but work slowly to avoid tearing the fruit.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Combine dark chocolate chips and cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in ten second bursts stirring between each until melted and glossy. Let the mixture cool until thick but still scoopable which takes about three to five minutes.
- Fill the Cherries:
- Transfer the cooled chocolate ganache into a piping bag or use a small spoon. Gently fill each pitted cherry with chocolate until just full. Do not overfill as the chocolate will expand slightly when freezing.
- Freeze the Cherries:
- Spread the filled cherries in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Place in the freezer for at least two hours or until chocolate and fruit are solid.
- Serve and Dust:
- Before serving roll or dust the frozen cherries lightly in cocoa powder for added elegance if using. Serve immediately for the perfect bite.
Save These bites saved a family gathering on a hot day when all we wanted were cold treats. Now I always keep a secret stash for that post-dinner sweet tooth. When cherries are at their juiciest these bites become irresistible. I love watching the look of surprise the first time my niece bit into a cold cherry and found the creamy chocolate hidden inside. It instantly reminds me of summer celebrations growing up.
Storage Tips
Keep these bites in an airtight container in the freezer. They stay at peak freshness for up to two weeks but usually disappear much faster at my house. If you are planning to serve them at an event keep them frozen until just before guests arrive.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate for a sweeter twist. Coconut cream can stand in for heavy cream if you want a dairy free vegan option. Blueberries can also be used but you will need to be extra gentle with the filling step.
Serving Suggestions
Pile these frozen bites into a vintage bowl or scatter over ice for a pretty presentation. Sometimes I dust half with cocoa powder and leave half plain so guests have a choice. They pair beautifully with iced coffee or a glass of bubbly.
Cultural or Historical Context
Chocolate covered cherries have graced European dessert tables for generations usually dipped in liqueur and dressed up for the holidays. This version skips the booze and brings the flavors into a bright summery snack form with no complicated steps.
Seasonal Adaptations
Try with rainier cherries for a lighter color and unique flavor. In winter frozen pitted cherries can be stuffed then frozen again. Use mint or orange zest in the ganache for a fresh twist.
Success Stories
My friend made these with her grandkids and told me her freezer has never been so popular. Another time we brought a tray of frozen bites to a July birthday picnic and they melted only after the very last one vanished.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can prepare several trays at once and freeze in batches. If layering in a container use parchment between layers so they do not stick together. They are just as good straight from the freezer for grab and go snacking.
Save It is amazing how three simple ingredients can become such a showstopper. Make these once and they will be a staple every summer.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chocolate works best for the filling?
Dark chocolate is recommended for a rich flavor, but milk or white chocolate can be substituted based on preference.
- → How do you pit cherries while keeping them intact?
Use a cherry pitter to gently remove the pit, preserving the cherry's shape for filling.
- → Can these frozen bites be made vegan?
Yes, use coconut cream instead of dairy cream and ensure your chocolate chips are vegan.
- → How long should the filled cherries be frozen?
Freeze the stuffed cherries for about 2 hours, until completely firm and easy to handle.
- → Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making them safe for gluten-sensitive guests.