STUFFED CHERRIES DIPPED IN CHOCOLATE

Stuffed Cherries Dipped in Chocolate image

I make these delectable cherry treats in early summer when the cherries are ripe and plentiful. A summertime favorite, they freeze very nicely and are a wonderful treat to serve to guests later in the season. -Judy Bond, Duncan, British Columbia

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 45m

Yield 5 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds fresh dark sweet cherries with stems
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons ground hazelnuts
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 cups white baking chips
12 teaspoons shortening, divided
1-1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Steps:

Pit cherries through the sides, leaving stems intact. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Stir in hazelnuts and syrup. Pipe into cherries. , In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt white chips and 5 teaspoons shortening at 70% power. Microwave at additional 10- to 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. In another bowl, repeat with milk chocolate chips and 3-1/2 teaspoons shortening. Repeat with semisweet chips and remaining shortening., Holding stems, dip a third of the stuffed cherries into melted white chocolate; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper; let stand until set. Repeat with remaining cherries and milk chocolate and semisweet chocolate. Dip the white-coated cherries a second time to completely cover; let stand until set., Reheat remaining melted chocolate if necessary. Drizzle white chocolate over cherries dipped in milk or semisweet chocolate. Drizzle milk or semisweet chocolate over white chocolate-dipped cherries. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 105 calories, Fat 7g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 6mg cholesterol, Sodium 20mg sodium, Carbohydrate 11g carbohydrate (10g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 1g protein.