Name: Decadent Chocolate Cherry Pumpkins: The Perfect Fall Treat!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package of maraschino cherries with stems (about 20 cherries); 1 cup of smooth peanut butter or almond butter; 1 cup of powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup of orange candy melts or orange chocolate chips; 1 cup of dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips; Optional: green decorating icing or candy for leaves

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Decadent Chocolate Cherry Pumpkins: The Perfect Fall Treat! 🍫🍒🎃

1. Introduction

Autumn is the season of cozy sweaters, crisp leaves, and deliciously sweet treats that warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the festive spirit, look no further than our Chocolate Covered Cherry Pumpkins. These charming treats combine luscious cherries, creamy centers, and rich chocolate to create the ultimate Halloween pumpkin treats and seasonal party desserts. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, these cherry pumpkin desserts are perfect for sharing with family and friends or adding a touch of elegance to your holiday table.

2. Ingredients

1 package of maraschino cherries with stems (about 20 cherries)
1 cup of smooth peanut butter or almond butter
1 cup of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup of orange candy melts or orange chocolate chips
1 cup of dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional: green decorating icing or candy for leaves

To elevate your cherry pumpkin desserts, make sure to gather high-quality ingredients. For a professional touch, consider investing in CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set for perfect melting and coating, or the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker to keep your chocolate at the ideal temperature during preparation.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cherry Centers

Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly and pat dry with a paper towel. In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, fill each cherry with a small amount of the peanut butter mixture, then replace the stem if it was removed. Chill the cherries for about 30 minutes to firm up.

Make the Pumpkin Shape

Once the cherries are ready, shape small portions of orange candy melts into pumpkin-like forms. Use your hands or a mold if available, and let them set on a parchment-lined tray. These will serve as the pumpkin bodies for your chocolate covered cherry pumpkins.

Assemble the Pumpkins

Insert the filled cherry into the center of each pumpkin-shaped candy melt. Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help everything set firmly.

Coat with Chocolate

Melt the dark or semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Using a fork or dipping tool, immerse each pumpkin and cherry combo into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. To make the pumpkin’s stem and leaves, melt a small amount of green candy or use green icing to decorate the top.

Decorate and Finish

Once coated, add finishing touches such as tiny green leaves or a curl of green candy to mimic pumpkin stems. Let the chocolate covered cherry pumpkins set completely, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator for quicker results.

4. Storage Tips

Stored in an airtight container, these festive Halloween pumpkin treats stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If layering, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

5. Serving Suggestions

Display your cherry pumpkin desserts on a decorative platter or in a pumpkin-shaped basket. Perfect for Halloween parties, fall gatherings, or as a sweet gift for loved ones. Pair them with a hot cup of apple cider or pumpkin spice latte for a truly seasonal experience.

6. FAQ: All You Need to Know About Chocolate Covered Cherry Pumpkins

Can I make these pumpkin treats ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and assemble the chocolate covered cherry pumpkins a day in advance, then store them in the fridge. Bring them to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.

Are there substitutions for using cherries or chocolate?

Absolutely! You can substitute cherries with strawberries or dried apricots, and swap dark chocolate for white or milk chocolate for different flavor profiles. For allergy-friendly options, consider using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.

How long does it take to make chocolate cherry pumpkins?

Preparation time is approximately 30-40 minutes, with additional chilling time. Overall, plan for about an hour from start to finish to get these festive treats just right.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keeps your chocolate at the perfect temperature while dipping to prevent clumping and ensure smooth coating.
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Melts your candy melts and chocolate evenly, making decorating easier and less messy.
Deluxe 33-Piece Silicone Utensil Set – Essential for stirring, spreading, and decorating with precision.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – A versatile tool to quickly melt chocolate or candy melts evenly for professional-looking results.

These tools facilitate a smoother baking and decorating process, making your Halloween pumpkin treats both beautiful and delicious!

8. Additional Tips for the Perfect Cherry Pumpkin Desserts

Use high-quality maraschino cherries for the best flavor and appearance.
Test melt your chocolates and candies first to avoid drying or burning.
Get creative with decorating! Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or drizzle contrasting chocolate for extra flair.
Always chill your finished pumpkins to ensure they hold their shape when served.

9. Conclusion

Creating Chocolate Covered Cherry Pumpkins combines the festive charm of Halloween with a rich, indulgent taste that everyone will love. This delightful treat is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or a special dessert to enjoy alone. By following the simple steps and using the right tools, you can craft stunning pumpkins that taste as good as they look. Happy baking and enjoy your spooky season with these irresistible cherry pumpkin desserts!