We’ve always been fans of the classic Cherry Bon Bon, a delightful candy that combines juicy cherries with a smooth chocolate coating for an irresistible treat. Originating from traditional confectionery roots, this recipe brings a burst of nostalgia straight to your kitchen, perfect for holidays or everyday indulgences.
Ingredients
To craft our delicious Cherry Bon Bon treats, we gather these essential ingredients in the order they are used. This selection draws from traditional confectionery roots, ensuring a perfect blend of juicy cherries and smooth chocolate coating for that nostalgic appeal.
Fresh Cherries and Preparations
- Maraschino cherries (1 cup, drained and patted dry with stems intact for easy dipping – these form the juicy heart of our Cherry Bon Bon)
- Powdered sugar (2 cups, sifted to remove lumps, as it’s the base for our fondant mixture)
Fondant Mixture Components
- Sweetened condensed milk (1/2 cup, at room temperature for smooth blending)
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened to incorporate easily into the fondant)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, pure variety for authentic flavor enhancement)
Coating and Finishing Touches
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups, high-quality for a glossy coating that melts evenly)
- Shortening or coconut oil (2 tablespoons, to thin the chocolate for a professional finish)
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our essential ingredients like maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips, let’s guide you through crafting these irresistible Cherry Bon Bons. We ensure each step is straightforward and yields a nostalgic treat with a perfect balance of juicy cherries and creamy chocolate.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin mixing, it’s crucial to prepare our ingredients for smooth execution. Start by draining a 10-ounce jar of maraschino cherries on paper towels to remove excess liquid—this prevents the dough from becoming too moist. Next, soften 1/2 cup of unsalted butter by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Measure out 3 cups of powdered sugar, 1/3 cup of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Finally, set aside 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of shortening or coconut oil for the coating. Proper preparation ensures our Cherry Bon Bons turn out with the ideal texture and flavor.
Mix the Bon Bon Dough
With ingredients prepped, we mix the dough to create that signature creamy base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth—this takes about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat on low speed until a thick, pliable dough forms. We recommend stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula for even mixing. The result is a sweet, velvety dough that perfectly complements the tartness of the cherries, making our Cherry Bon Bons irresistibly balanced.
Shape and Chill the Bon Bons
Now we shape the bon bons to lock in those juicy cherries. Take about 1 teaspoon of the dough and flatten it in your palm, then wrap it around a drained maraschino cherry to fully enclose it, forming a small ball—aim for 1-inch diameter per bon bon. This should yield approximately 24-30 pieces depending on cherry size. Place the shaped bon bons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms up the dough, ensuring our Cherry Bon Bons hold their form and deliver a satisfying, crisp bite when coated.
Coat and Finish
For the final touch, we coat the chilled bon bons in a glossy chocolate layer that enhances their appeal. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil together in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth and fully combined—this typically takes 1-2 minutes total. Using a fork, dip each chilled bon bon into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off, then place it back on the parchment-lined sheet. Let them set at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or refrigerate for faster hardening. The result is a decadent, chocolate-coated treat with a satisfying snap and burst of cherry flavor that makes our Cherry Bon Bons a crowd-pleaser.
Tools and Equipment
To craft our irresistible Cherry Bon Bon treats with precision and ease, we rely on a few essential tools and equipment. These items streamline the process from mixing the dough to dipping in chocolate, ensuring professional results every time.
Must-Have Tools
We recommend gathering the following tools based on the steps we’ve outlined, such as draining cherries, mixing ingredients, shaping balls, and coating them:
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for balancing flavors in our Cherry Bon Bon dough—use a set of dry and liquid measuring cups to portion powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract precisely.
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla to create a smooth base; opt for a sturdy bowl that can handle vigorous stirring without tipping.
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon: Speeds up blending the dough to a thick, pliable consistency— we prefer an electric mixer for efficiency, but a spoon works for smaller batches.
- Baking sheet or tray: Essential for arranging and chilling the shaped bon bons; line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain that perfect form.
- Refrigerator: Chills the bon bons quickly to set their shape before dipping, ensuring they hold up during the chocolate coating step.
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: Melts semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening smoothly for a glossy finish— we use a double boiler to avoid scorching and achieve even melting.
- Fork or dipping tool: Makes coating the chilled bon bons in chocolate effortless, allowing for a uniform layer that enhances the treat’s decadent texture.
By using these tools, we ensure our Cherry Bon Bon recipe flows seamlessly from preparation to the final, mouthwatering result. Always choose high-quality items to elevate your home baking experience.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To ensure our Cherry Bon Bons remain fresh and irresistible, we can prepare them in advance and store them effectively, extending their enjoyment beyond the initial crafting process. This approach allows us to savor the juicy cherries enveloped in smooth chocolate at any time, maintaining that perfect balance of tartness and richness.
Make-Ahead Tips
We recommend making Cherry Bon Bons ahead to simplify holiday baking or everyday treats. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Prepare the Dough Early: After mixing the butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract with powdered sugar to form the dough, we can shape the balls around the maraschino cherries right away. Cover the shaped bon bons tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before dipping in chocolate. This keeps the dough firm and easy to handle, preserving the cherries’ vibrant flavor.
- Chill and Coat in Advance: Once we’ve dipped the chilled bon bons in melted chocolate, let them set completely on a parchment-lined baking sheet. We can then store the fully coated treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before serving. This method ensures the chocolate coating hardens with a satisfying snap, enhancing the sensory experience of biting into the creamy center.
- Freeze for Longer Prep: For events further ahead, we shape and dip the bon bons as directed, then freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready, we thaw them in the refrigerator overnight to retain their moist texture and prevent the chocolate from blooming.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to preserving the decadent texture and flavor of our Cherry Bon Bons. Below, we outline the best methods based on duration and conditions:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the chocolate from softening. We place them in a single layer with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking, ensuring the cherries stay juicy and the coating remains glossy. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, expelling as much air as possible to limit freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge for several hours to preserve the bon bons’ crisp exterior and tender interior, delivering that fresh-from-the-kitchen taste. |
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Only for short-term storage in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. We recommend this for immediate consumption to keep the chocolate firm and the overall treat at peak sensory appeal, but avoid if humidity is high to prevent melting. |
By following these guidelines, we keep our Cherry Bon Bons at their best, ready to delight with every bite of tart cherry and velvety chocolate.
Conclusion
We’ve enjoyed guiding you through crafting these delightful Cherry Bon Bons. They’re more than just a treat—they’re a fun way to add a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen adventures.
As we wrap up, we’re sure you’ll find joy in sharing these homemade delights with loved ones. Let’s get baking and savor every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cherry Bon Bon?
A Cherry Bon Bon is a classic candy featuring juicy maraschino cherries wrapped in a sweet, creamy dough and coated in smooth chocolate. It’s a nostalgic treat with traditional confectionery roots, perfect for holidays or everyday snacking, offering a delightful balance of tart cherry and rich chocolate flavors.
What ingredients are needed for Cherry Bon Bons?
You’ll need maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and shortening or coconut oil. These simple ingredients combine to create a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making the candy easy to prepare at home.
How do you make Cherry Bon Bons?
Start by draining cherries and softening butter. Mix butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla, then add powdered sugar to form a thick dough. Wrap dough around each cherry to make balls, chill them, and dip in melted chocolate for a decadent finish. The process takes about 30-45 minutes plus chilling time.
What tools are required to make Cherry Bon Bons?
Essential tools include measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a large mixing bowl, an electric mixer or wooden spoon, a baking sheet with parchment paper for chilling, and a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate. A fork helps with dipping for a uniform coating.
Can you prepare Cherry Bon Bons in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead and shape the bon bons up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate before dipping. This allows for easy preparation, especially for events, while keeping the treats fresh and maintaining their shape and flavor.
How should you store Cherry Bon Bons?
Store coated Cherry Bon Bons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months. For short-term, keep at room temperature for up to two days. Proper storage preserves the tart cherry and chocolate texture for maximum enjoyment.