Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites
Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple
I absolutely love making Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites because they satisfy my sweet tooth in the most delightful way. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a perfect balance that I crave time and time again. These bite-sized treats are not only quick to whip up but also make for an impressive dessert at gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create something that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me; these bites will have everyone asking for seconds!
When I first decided to create Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites, I wanted something that felt special but was also easy to make. I experimented with different chocolate types and finally landed on dark chocolate. It not only allowed for a deeper flavor but also complemented the tartness of the cherries beautifully. I discovered that adding a pinch of sea salt really elevated the flavors, making each bite a mini indulgence.
What surprises me every time is how such a simple recipe can pack so much flavor. The texture is another highlight; the chocolate coating is firm yet melts in your mouth, while the cherries provide a juicy burst that contrasts perfectly. If you're looking for a sweet treat that everyone will love, this is it!
Why You'll Love These Bites
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
- Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings in a bite-sized form
Perfecting the Chocolate Melting Technique
Melting chocolate is a fundamental step in creating the rich coating for your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites. When microwaving, use lower power (50% is ideal) to prevent burning. Stirring every 30 seconds not only helps achieve a smooth texture but also ensures even melting. The final consistency should be glossy and pourable, indicating it’s ready to be combined with your other ingredients.
If you happen to overheat the chocolate, it can seize up and become grainy, which affects the bite's texture. If this happens, try adding a small amount of coconut oil (1 teaspoon at a time) and gently reheat. This will help bring the chocolate back to a usable state.
Texture and Flavor Enhancements
The chopped almonds in the mixture not only offer a delightful crunch but also complement the rich chocolate and tart cherries beautifully. For an added depth of flavor, consider toasting the almonds lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This extra step brings a nutty aroma that elevates the entire experience of your bliss bites.
Using high-quality dark chocolate significantly impacts the overall flavor. Opt for chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa for a deeper bitterness that balances the sweetness of the cherries. If you’re looking for a sweeter alternative, semi-sweet chocolate chips work well, but be mindful they will alter the overall sweetness of the final product.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start!
Instructions
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.
Prepare the Cherry Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the chopped dried cherries with chopped almonds. This will give your bites a wonderful crunch.
Combine and Shape
Once the chocolate is melted, add the cherry and almond mixture. Stir until everything is well coated. Using a spoon, scoop the mixture into bite-sized mounds on a parchment-lined tray.
Chill and Serve
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each mound and refrigerate for about 15 minutes or until set. Enjoy your delightful Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites!
Keep these bites refrigerated if not consumed immediately for best texture.
Pro Tips
- For a variation, try using white chocolate or adding in some chopped nuts for extra crunch.
Storage Tips
To keep your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain delicious for up to a week, although I find they are usually devoured much sooner! If you're preparing them ahead of time, make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
These treats can also be frozen, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, same as with refrigertor storing. When you want to enjoy them, allow them to thaw in the fridge for a few hours or at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
Variations to Try
Get creative with the ingredients! You can substitute the dried cherries with dried cranberries or apricots for a different flavor profile. Nuts can be swapped for pecans or walnuts, adding their distinct tastes and textures to the bites. For a more adventurous twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the chocolate for a subtle kick.
For a lower-calorie version, use sugar-free dark chocolate and reduce the amount of coconut oil. You can also include a scoop of protein powder in the mixture, transforming your bliss bites into a nutritious treat for after workouts.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Fresh cherries have too much moisture and may not hold well in this recipe. Stick with dried for the best results.
→ How long do these bites last?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, if they last that long!
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead?
Absolutely! Using milk chocolate will give them a sweeter taste, but the recipe will still work well.
→ Is there a vegan option for these bites?
Yes! You can use dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely vegan version.
Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites
I absolutely love making Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites because they satisfy my sweet tooth in the most delightful way. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a perfect balance that I crave time and time again. These bite-sized treats are not only quick to whip up but also make for an impressive dessert at gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create something that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me; these bites will have everyone asking for seconds!
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Delicious Desserts Made Simple
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 bites
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix the chopped dried cherries with chopped almonds. This will give your bites a wonderful crunch.
Once the chocolate is melted, add the cherry and almond mixture. Stir until everything is well coated. Using a spoon, scoop the mixture into bite-sized mounds on a parchment-lined tray.
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each mound and refrigerate for about 15 minutes or until set. Enjoy your delightful Chocolate Cherry Bliss Bites!
Extra Tips
- For a variation, try using white chocolate or adding in some chopped nuts for extra crunch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 1g