New Year’s celebrations tend to revolve around glasses clinking and cocktails flowing, but this year I’m all in on a treat that feels like both dessert and a drink. Boozy chocolate cherries have been popping up all over social media, and it’s easy to see why. They look festive on a platter, taste like a grown-up candy, and disappear faster than you expect. The Kitchn recently spotlighted the idea, and it’s exactly the kind of crowd-pleaser that makes hosting feel effortless.
The base is simple, and it starts with a jar of maraschino cherries. Drain them well, then move the cherries to a bowl and pour over spiced rum until they’re fully covered. Let them soak overnight, or longer if you want the rum flavor to come through more boldly. The hardest part is remembering that the real magic happens after waiting.
When you’re ready to finish them, melt dark chocolate in the microwave and stir until smooth. A small spoonful of coconut oil is the quiet trick here because it helps the chocolate look glossy, makes dipping easier, and encourages a cleaner set. Set out a few plates of decorations like colorful sprinkles, or keep it elegant with metallic tones if you’re leaning into a New Year’s theme. From there, it’s an assembly line you can do while chatting with guests.
Dip each cherry into the melted chocolate, let the excess drip off, then roll it in your chosen topping. Place the cherries in a single layer on a tray or plate and give them a few hours to firm up before serving. The result tastes like a chocolate cherry praline with an extra wink of warmth from the rum. They’re sweet, slightly bitter from the dark chocolate, and finished with a crunch that makes every bite more interesting.
A few small details make the process smoother. Let the chocolate cool slightly before you start dipping so it thickens just enough to cling without running everywhere. Work in batches so the sprinkles stick before the coating sets, and don’t be afraid to swap in chopped hazelnuts or almonds for a more grown-up texture. Also, it’s worth reminding everyone these cherries contain alcohol because they’re deceptively easy to snack on.
One more smart move is not wasting the rum left in the bowl. After soaking, it takes on a rosy tint and a cherry-forward aroma that’s perfect for mixing into a fruity cocktail later. It’s the kind of bonus that makes the whole idea feel even more party-ready. If you love desserts that do double duty, this one earns a spot on your table.
Would you try these boozy chocolate cherries for your next celebration, and what topping would you choose for your platter? Share your take in the comments.
