Print

Decadent Dark Chocolate Cherry Cups – Easy Homemade Dessert

dark chocolate cherry cups - featured image
Print Recipe

Rich, dark chocolate cups filled with a sweet-tart cherry compote. An easy, no-bake dessert that looks like it came from a fancy chocolatier but comes together in under an hour with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), chopped
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for shine)
  • 1½ cups (225g) frozen or fresh cherries
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Sea salt flakes (optional, for topping)
  • Chopped pistachios or almonds (optional)
  • Orange zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the cherry compote: In a small saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until cherries break down and mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 8-10 minutes (add 2-3 minutes if using frozen cherries). Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool completely.
  2. Melt the chocolate: Chop dark chocolate into small, even pieces. Place in a heatproof bowl with coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring well after each, until smooth and fully melted (about 1½-2 minutes total). Alternatively, use a double boiler.
  3. Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners (or set silicone molds on a baking sheet).
  4. Create the first chocolate layer: Spoon about 1 teaspoon melted chocolate into each liner. Use the back of the spoon to spread it up the sides, forming a small cup shape. Tap the tin gently to settle chocolate and remove air bubbles. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until firm.
  5. Add the cherry filling: Spoon about ½ teaspoon cooled cherry compote into each cup. If using optional toppings (nuts, orange zest), sprinkle a little on top of the compote now.
  6. Top with remaining chocolate: Spoon another teaspoon melted chocolate over the filling, covering it completely and meeting the edges of the first layer. Tap the tin to level tops. If using sea salt flakes, sprinkle a tiny pinch on top before chocolate sets.
  7. Set and serve: Return tin to refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, until chocolate is completely firm. Peel away paper liners and serve cold.

Notes

Let the cherry compote cool completely before adding to the chocolate to prevent melting. For a professional finish, temper the chocolate using the seeding method. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months. These cups taste even better the next day as flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: dark chocolate cherry cups, easy homemade dessert, no-bake dessert, chocolate cherry cups, mini chocolate cups, cherry compote, gluten-free dessert, dairy-free dessert

Find it online: https://chloeplate.com/decadent-dark-chocolate-cherry-cups-easy-homemade-dessert/