Dark Chocolate Dipped Tipsy Cherries
Because not everything on the Christmas dessert table needs to be kid-friendly.
Every holiday season, I feel like there needs to be at least one treat that quietly whispers, “This one’s for the adults.” Not loud. Not chaotic. Just… subtly boozy, chocolatey, and irresistible.
Enter: Dark Chocolate Dipped Tipsy Cherries.
They’re glossy. They’re festive. They’re dipped in dark chocolate and sprinkled with Christmas cheer. And yes — they’ve been soaking in spiced rum for a full 12–24 hours beforehand, because we’re not here to play games.
These are the kind of treats that disappear fast, get talked about quietly, and make people ask, “Wait… what’s in these?” after the second one.
The Vibe
Think classic chocolate-covered cherries… but grown-up.
Like the dessert you bring when you want to feel festive and a little mischievous.
Here’s what’s happening:
- maraschino cherries soaking in warm, spiced rum
- dark chocolate melted and glossy
- Christmas sprinkles and sugars for sparkle
- a firm chocolate shell that cracks just enough
- and that boozy cherry center that hits right after
They’re elegant, indulgent, and very much “holiday dessert for adults who like their sweets with a twist.”
Why the Rum Soak Matters
Letting the cherries soak for 12–24 hours is the whole point. That time allows the cherries to absorb the rum flavor all the way through, turning them from sweet little cherries into full-on tipsy cherries.
The spiced rum adds warmth and depth — subtle vanilla, cinnamon, and caramel notes that pair beautifully with dark chocolate. It’s not overpowering… but it’s definitely noticeable. Which is exactly what we want.
Fun fact: alcohol doesn’t just add flavor — it actually helps soften the fruit slightly, making the texture extra luscious. Science, but make it festive.
Dark Chocolate Is the Right Choice
Dark chocolate is doing a lot of heavy lifting here, and she deserves her flowers.
It balances the sweetness of the cherries, complements the warmth of the rum, and makes the whole thing feel more sophisticated. Milk chocolate would be fine, sure — but dark chocolate gives these that “after-dinner treat with coffee”energy.
Plus, the slight bitterness makes it very easy to go back for another. And another.
Let’s Talk Sprinkles ✨
Christmas sprinkles and sugars aren’t just for looks — they add texture, crunch, and instant holiday vibes. They also make these cherries look adorable on a platter or tucked into little gift boxes.
Pro tip: dip some in sprinkles, leave some plain, and suddenly you’ve got variety with zero extra effort.
When to Serve These
These are perfect for:
- Christmas parties
- Cookie trays (adult section)
- After-dinner desserts
- New Year’s Eve
- Holiday gifting
- When you want to bring something unexpected
They’re especially great because you can make them ahead, let them set, and keep them chilled until party time.
What They Taste Like
Sweet cherry → warm spiced rum → rich dark chocolate → crunchy festive topping.
It’s a little nostalgic, a little indulgent, and very “holiday nightcap in dessert form.”
Basically: a cherry cordial… but upgraded.
Coming Up Next
Below, I’ll be sharing the full recipe card, including tips for soaking time, dipping, and setting — so you can make your own batch of Dark Chocolate Dipped Tipsy Cherries for the holidays.
Just don’t forget to label them “for adults only.” 😉
Dark Chocolate Dipped Tipsy Cherries
Ingredients
- 1 jar maraschino cherries drained
- Spiced rum enough to cover cherries
- Dark chocolate melts (I used Ghirardelli)
- Christmas sprinkles or sugars
Instructions
- Soak the Cherries: Place the drained maraschino cherries in a jar or container and pour in enough spiced rum to fully cover them. Seal and refrigerate for 12–24 hours.
- Drain + Dry: Remove cherries from the rum and place on paper towels. Pat very dry to help the chocolate adhere.
- Melt the Chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate melts according to package instructions until smooth.
- Dip: Holding each cherry by the stem, dip into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off.
- Decorate: Immediately dip or sprinkle the cherries with Christmas sprinkles or sugars before the chocolate sets.
- Set: Place dipped cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until firm.
- Serve or Store: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
