It was one of those sunny afternoons when I spotted a basket of juicy, ripe cherries at the farmer’s market, and I knew exactly what I wanted to create—Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled! The thought of biting into a warm pastry, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate, and the burst of sweet cherry flavor was too tempting to resist. This recipe is not just a treat for special occasions; it’s perfect for brightening up a mundane weeknight or impressing friends at your next gathering.
What I love most about these treats is how deceptively simple they are. With only a handful of ingredients—fresh cherries, dark chocolate, and flaky puff pastry—you can whip up a delightful dessert in just 35 minutes! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone simply looking to escape the monotony of fast food, these Cherry Bombs are a sweet escape that will leave your taste buds dancing. So grab that puff pastry, and let’s turn these cherries into little bites of bliss!
Why You'll Love This Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to create a delicious dessert in just 35 minutes with minimal effort.
- The rich combination of dark chocolate and fresh cherries creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible.
- These Cherry Bombs are versatile enough to be served at any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends.
- Visually appealing and delightful to eat, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about.
Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled Ingredients
For the Filling
• Fresh cherries – pitting them allows for a delightful burst of flavor when baking.
• Dark chocolate chips – melt them for a rich, gooey center that pairs perfectly with cherries.
• Granulated sugar – this enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries and balances the chocolate.
• Unsalted butter – adds creaminess to the chocolate filling, making it smooth and decadent.
• Vanilla extract – adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the chocolate beautifully.
For the Pastry
• Puff pastry – this flaky dough wraps around the filling to create a delightful, crunchy exterior.
• Baking powder – helps the pastry puff up perfectly in the oven, offering a light and airy bite.
Make sure to assemble these Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled in a leisurely moment, and treat yourself to an experience that only homemade goodness can provide!
How to Make Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked pastry that’s golden brown and crispy. Get that heat going while you prepare the cherries!
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Wash and pit the cherries carefully, creating hollow centers. This is where the magic happens—these little pockets will be filled with delicious chocolate!
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Melt dark chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl. Use 30-second intervals and stir until smooth, then mix in the vanilla extract for a flavorful finish.
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Coat the pitted cherries in granulated sugar. This step enhances their sweetness and creates a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate filling.
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Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut squares that will completely wrap around each cherry. A little flour will help prevent sticking!
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Place the melted chocolate inside each pastry square, add a cherry right on top, then seal the pastry by folding the corners over to encase the cherry.
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Bake these beauties on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and puffed up.
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Cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the chocolate to set slightly; a dusting of powdered sugar will add a lovely finish if you like!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful bites with various twists and swaps!
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Nutty Twist: Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds to the chocolate filling for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder with the chocolate for a surprising, warm heat that balances the sweetness.
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Berry Blend: Replace the cherries with raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist that’s equally delicious!
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Vegan Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan butter to create a plant-based version of these cherry-filled pastries.
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Flaky Layers: Try using croissant dough instead of puff pastry for a rich, flaky texture that will surprise your taste buds.
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Coconut Delight: Stir in a bit of shredded coconut into the chocolate for a tropical flavor that beautifully complements the cherries.
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Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the chocolate mixture for a bright citrus note that awakens all the flavors.
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Almond Extract: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a lovely, nutty aroma and flavor that elevates the entire treat.
What to Serve with Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled?
Creating the perfect spread to accompany your delightful pastry treat can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A creamy scoop under your warm Cherry Bombs adds a refreshing contrast, melting into the rich chocolate filling. The coldness of the ice cream perfectly complements the hot pastry.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: Bright and fragrant, a sprinkle of mint adds a burst of freshness, enhancing the sweet flavors of the cherries. Consider serving a sprig alongside for that elegant touch.
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Espresso or Coffee: The robust flavors of coffee pair beautifully with chocolate, creating a harmonious balance that excites your palate. Sip your drink alongside the Cherry Bombs for a delightful after-dinner experience.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Enhance the chocolate experience by drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top. This extra layer will delight chocolate lovers and make your dessert even more indulgent.
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Berry Salad: A simple salad made with mixed berries can provide a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the Cherry Bombs. The freshness of the berries will balance the richness of the dessert.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a cloud-like texture that complements the warm pastry while introducing a bit of sweetness.
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Sparkling Wine or Champagne: Bubbles in a glass create a festive feel! The effervescence cuts through the richness and pairs well with the cherry flavor.
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Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds: For the ultimate chocolate lover’s plate, serve some crunchy dark chocolate-covered almonds alongside. They add a delightful crunch and extra cocoa flavor dimension.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats bring a tropical twist and contrast beautifully against the sweet cherries and rich chocolate, providing a unique texture between bites.
Enjoy crafting your meal! Each of these pairings will enhance the experience of savoring your Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled, creating memories with every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled
Room Temperature: Store any leftover Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Enjoy them while they’re still fresh for the best flavor!
Fridge: If you wish to keep them longer, place the Cherry Bombs in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Cherry Bombs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and the pastry is crispy again. Enjoy your delightful treats!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, allowing you to savor the flavors without the stress of last-minute prep! You can prepare the filling—melted chocolate mixed with butter and vanilla, and sugar-coated cherries—up to 24 hours in advance. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to indulge, simply roll out your puff pastry, assemble the bundles with the prepped filling, and bake as directed. This simple step saves time while ensuring that your pastries are just as delicious and fresh when served!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled, be sure to wash and pit the cherries carefully to allow the sweet chocolate filling to shine through.
- To get a smooth chocolate mixture, melt the dark chocolate chips and butter in short intervals, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Rolling out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface helps prevent it from sticking and allows for easier shaping of the pastry around the cherries.
- Bake the pastries until golden brown for about 20 minutes, and keep an eye on the color for the perfect flaky texture.
Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cherries for my Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for ones that are firm, glossy, and vibrant in color. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, which might indicate overripeness. Fresh cherries should be plump and the stems should look green and fresh. This ensures you get the best flavor for those delightful pastries.
How should I store leftover Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled?
Very good question! If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them tasty and fresh! If you’d like to keep them longer, transfer them to the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to bring back their delightful crispiness.
Can I freeze Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled?
Of course! Freezing is a great option for these treats. First, place the unbaked pastry bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until they’re golden and warm inside.
What can I do if my puff pastry sticks while making these Cherry Bombs?
No worries! If your puff pastry is sticking, simply sprinkle a bit more flour on your work surface and the rolling pin. If it’s really difficult, you can chill the pastry in the fridge for about 15 minutes before rolling it out again. This will make it easier to work with and prevent tearing.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! If you’re making Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled for guests, be aware of potential allergies. For those with gluten sensitivities, you can opt for gluten-free puff pastry. If using dark chocolate, check for dairy ingredients if you’re making them for someone who is lactose intolerant or vegan. And of course, keep cherries away from pets as they can be harmful to them!
Can I substitute ingredients for Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled?
Absolutely! If cherries aren’t in season, you can use other fruits like raspberries or even sliced strawberries. For a twist, consider using milk chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that the sweetness of the fruit and chocolate should balance with the sugar added in the recipe!
Cherry Bombs Chocolate Filled
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and pit the cherries carefully.
- Melt dark chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Coat the pitted cherries in granulated sugar.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut squares.
- Place melted chocolate inside each pastry square, add a cherry, and seal the pastry.
- Bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes.
- Cool for a few minutes before serving.
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