Decadent Chocolate Cherry Delights
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Decadent Chocolate Cherry Delights, a delightful treat that combines creamy bittersweet chocolate, crunchy cereal, and the tangy sweetness of dried cherries, all topped off with a satisfying crunch from walnut pieces. These bite-sized clusters are perfect for sharing or savoring as a sweet snack. Whether you're hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, these clusters are sure to impress any chocolate lover. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, they make a fantastic homemade gift or party favor!
24
Servings
100
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bittersweet chocolate chips
2 cups (none)
Cheerios toasted oat cereal or similar cereal
1 1/2 cups (none)
Dried cherries or other dried fruit
1 cup (chopped if large)
Walnut pieces
1/2 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the bittersweet chocolate chips.
2
Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir to combine.
3
Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is nearly melted and smooth.
4
Once the chocolate is melted, quickly fold in the cereal, dried cherries, and chopped walnuts until all ingredients are well coated with chocolate.
5
Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper, shaping them into clusters.
6
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm and no longer sticky.
7
Once set, enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Delights or store them in an airtight container!
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
13g
Carbs
1.3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Chocolate Cherry Delights?
They are bite-sized clusters made of bittersweet chocolate, toasted oat cereal, dried cherries, and walnut pieces.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 24 servings.
What type of chocolate is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of bittersweet chocolate chips.
Can I use a different type of cereal?
Yes, you can use Cheerios toasted oat cereal or any similar crunchy cereal.
Do I need to bake these chocolate clusters?
No, this is a no-bake recipe that sets in the refrigerator.
How long do the clusters need to refrigerate?
They should be refrigerated for about 1 hour or until the chocolate is firm.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 100 calories.
Can I substitute the dried cherries?
Yes, you can use other dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins if preferred.
How do I melt the bittersweet chocolate chips?
Microwave them on high for 1 minute, then in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Are these clusters suitable for gifts?
Yes, they make fantastic homemade gifts or party favors due to their professional look and taste.
What size should the dried cherries be?
If the dried cherries are large, they should be chopped into smaller pieces before mixing.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains 5g of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 13g of carbohydrates per serving.
Do I need to chop the walnuts?
Yes, the recipe suggests using chopped walnut pieces for the best texture.
How should I store these treats?
Once set, store the delights in an airtight container.
Can I use milk chocolate instead?
Yes, while bittersweet is suggested for depth, milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter taste.
What surface should I drop the clusters onto?
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
Is there protein in these delights?
Yes, each serving provides about 1.3g of protein.
How do I portion the clusters?
Using a tablespoon is the best way to drop even spoonfuls of the mixture.
What should I do if the chocolate isn't smooth after the first minute?
Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals and stir after each until it is nearly melted.
Can I add salt to this recipe?
A light sprinkle of sea salt on top before refrigerating can enhance the chocolate flavor.
Are these delights gluten-free?
They can be if you ensure your cereal and chocolate chips are certified gluten-free.
Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Yes, pecans or even almonds make a great substitute for walnuts.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is a very simple and safe recipe for children to help with, especially the stirring and portioning.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use vegan-certified bittersweet chocolate chips and a vegan cereal to make this recipe vegan.
How do I know when they are ready to eat?
They are ready when the chocolate is firm to the touch and no longer sticky.
Can I use white chocolate chips?
Yes, white chocolate chips can be used for a different flavor profile.
What equipment do I need?
You will need a microwave-safe bowl, a spoon, a tablespoon, and a baking sheet.
Can I add coconut to these?
Yes, shredded coconut would be a great addition to the mix for extra flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch for parties.