Christmas bombs

Ingredients:

• One jar of half-dozen maraschino cherries (with stems still attached)
• 1 cup of white candy melts or white chocolate chips
• One-third cup of crushed peppermint candy

Preparation:

1. Get Cherries Ready: After draining, use paper towels to dry the maraschino cherries thoroughly. It’s important to ensure they are dry for the chocolate to adhere well.
2. Dissolve the White Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally in 15- to 20-second bursts until completely melted and smooth. Be cautious, as white chocolate can burn easily.
3. Let the Cherries Soak: Dip each cherry, stem-side down, into the melted white chocolate until it covers about three-quarters of the cherry.
4. Add Peppermint Crunch: Quickly dip or sprinkle the chocolate-coated cherry into the crushed peppermint candies to ensure they stick well.
5. Assemble the Cherry Bombs: Place each dipped cherry on a parchment or wax-lined baking sheet.
6. Put in the Fridge: Chill the cherry bombs for about 10 to 15 minutes until the chocolate sets.
7. Get it and Enjoy: Arrange them on a colorful platter and enjoy the festive flavors!

Changes and Hints:
Feel free to experiment with different coatings for a unique twist! Using milk or dark chocolate can add a richer flavor, and sprinkling contrasting chocolate on top can enhance their appearance. Enjoy your festive baking!

Here are some variations and tips for your Cherry Bombs:

Variations:

• Chocolate Coatings: Instead of just white chocolate, try using milk or dark chocolate for a richer taste. You can also mix different types of chocolate for a marbled effect.
• Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for an extra minty flavor.
• Different Toppings: Experiment with other toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even drizzles of caramel or chocolate for added texture and flavor.

Tips:

• Drying the Cherries: Make sure the cherries are completely dry before dipping to ensure the chocolate sticks well.
• Chilling Time: If you want the chocolate to set faster, you can place them in the freezer for a few minutes instead of the fridge.
• Presentation: For a festive touch, consider using colored sprinkles or edible glitter to decorate the cherry bombs before serving