Name: Festive Cherry Bombs
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 maraschino cherries with stems, drained and patted dry; 1 cup semi-sweet or white chocolate chips; 1 tsp coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate coating); Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut (for decorating); Optional: a few drops of vanilla or almond extract

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Why You’ll Love Festive Cherry Bombs Recipe

These Festive Cherry Bombs are a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Their eye-catching appearance adds a pop of color to your dessert spread, while their sweet, fruity center delivers a juicy surprise. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a fun kitchen project, these treats are simple, festive, and full of holiday cheer. Plus, they can be made ahead and customized to fit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Maraschino cherries with stems, drained and patted dry
Semi-sweet or white chocolate chips
Coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)
Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut (for decorating)
Optional flavor extracts (vanilla or almond)

Directions

Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly and pat them dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. If using, add a small amount of coconut oil or shortening to help thin the chocolate.
Stir in a few drops of vanilla or almond extract if desired.
Dip each cherry into the melted chocolate, covering it almost completely while leaving the stem exposed for easy grabbing.
While the chocolate is still wet, roll or sprinkle the cherry in your choice of decorations—sprinkles, coconut, or crushed nuts.
Place the coated cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate the tray for 15–20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
Serve chilled or at room temperature on a decorative platter.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 Festive Cherry Bombs.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Boozy Cherry Bombs: Soak the cherries in a bit of rum, brandy, or amaretto before dipping for a grown-up version.
Different Coatings: Try dark chocolate, white chocolate, or colored candy melts to match your holiday theme.
Double Dipped: After the first chocolate coating sets, dip halfway into a contrasting color for a two-tone look.
Nut-Free Option: Use only sprinkles or coconut if avoiding nuts.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil.

Storage/Reheating

Store Festive Cherry Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
These treats do not require reheating and are best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What are Festive Cherry Bombs made of?

They typically consist of maraschino cherries dipped in chocolate and coated with festive toppings like sprinkles or coconut.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few days in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until needed.

Do I need to use coconut oil in the chocolate?

Coconut oil helps smooth and thin the chocolate for easier dipping, but it’s optional.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Maraschino cherries are preferred for their color, sweetness, and long stems, but pitted fresh cherries can work if dried thoroughly.

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?

Make sure your cherries are completely dry and avoid introducing water into the melted chocolate.

Can kids help make Festive Cherry Bombs?

Yes, this recipe is kid-friendly and great for family holiday activities—just supervise the chocolate melting process.

What toppings work best?

Popular options include sprinkles, crushed peppermint, mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, and shredded coconut.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. Use vegan chocolate and a dairy-free fat like coconut oil to keep it plant-based.

Do these need to stay refrigerated?

Yes, especially if made in advance or if your kitchen is warm. Refrigeration keeps the chocolate firm and the cherries fresh.

How long do they last?

Stored properly in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. In the freezer, they last up to a month.

Conclusion

Festive Cherry Bombs are a simple, fun, and colorful treat that brings instant holiday cheer to any celebration. With minimal prep and plenty of room for creativity, they’re a great addition to your seasonal dessert repertoire. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them in a holiday tin, or just enjoying a few with family, these cherry bombs are sure to brighten your festivities.