Best Chocolate Covered Cherries Brands: A Detailed Review
Chocolate covered cherries, also known as cherry cordials, are a popular dessert confection that are especially popular during the holiday season. These delicious treats combine juicy cherries, sweet fudge, and creamy chocolate to create a mouthwatering experience. If you’re wondering which brands offer the best chocolate-covered cherries, look no further. In this article, we provide a detailed buyer’s guide and review the top five brands that deliver exceptional quality and taste.
Chocolate-covered cherries have always been an important part of the gift-giving tradition. Loved by people of all ages, they evoke nostalgic childhood memories and satisfy our craving for something sweet and delicious. With a wide range of brands available on the market, choosing the best chocolate covered cherries can be a challenging task. To help you make an informed decision, we will discuss the key factors to consider when choosing these delicious treats.
Dark Chocolate or Milk Chocolate
One of the most important considerations when choosing chocolate-covered cherries is the type of chocolate used. Dark chocolate and milk chocolate are the two main variations that significantly affect the overall flavor of the candies.
Typically containing around 70% cocoa, dark chocolate is often considered a healthier option due to its many health benefits. It has a dominant and slightly bitter flavor profile. On the other hand, milk chocolate, loved for its smooth, mild and creamy flavor, contains lower levels of cocoa and is popular around the world.
The choice between dark and milk chocolate ultimately comes down to personal preference. Dark chocolate offers a stronger and healthier taste, while milk chocolate offers a sweeter and creamier experience.
Cherry Filling
Chocolate-covered cherries can be categorized by the type of cherry filling: liquid or solid. Traditional chocolate covered cherries are known for their liquid centers, which often have an artificial flavor that appeals to certain individuals seeking a specific taste.
Solid center chocolate covered cherries, on the other hand, offer a simpler option where whole cherries are covered in chocolate. This type of filling provides a more natural flavor, allowing you to enjoy both the flavor of the cherry and the quality of the chocolate.
Chocolate to cherry ratio
While it may not be a critical consideration for some, the chocolate to cherry ratio can significantly affect the overall taste and texture of the candy. Different brands and manufacturers may use different proportions of chocolate and cherry.
If you prefer a crunchy, chocolatey bite, choose Cherry Cordials with a higher chocolate content. The extra chocolate enhances the texture and flavor of the candy for a more indulgent experience. Remember, you can never go wrong with extra chocolate!
Top 5 Chocolate Covered Cherries Brands
Now that we’ve discussed the key factors to consider when choosing chocolate-covered cherries, let’s delve into our top five picks. These brands were selected based on their exceptional quality, taste, and customer reviews.
1. Cella’s Milk Chocolate Covered Cherries
Cella’s Milk Chocolate Covered Cherries are one of the most popular brands on the market. With over 5000 reviews on Amazon and a loyal fan base, they are highly regarded for their distinct flavor that strikes the perfect balance without being overly sweet.
These Cherry Cordials feature plump cherries encased in a clear liquid and covered in real milk chocolate. The combination of creamy milk chocolate and liquid-filled cherries provides a unique and satisfying experience. Cella’s Milk Chocolate Covered Cherries have maintained their taste and quality over the years, making them a reliable choice.
2. Cherry Republic Milk Chocolate Covered Cherries
Cherry Republic is a renowned brand specializing in cherries and cherry related products. Their Milk Chocolate Covered Cherries are made with delicious tart Michigan cherries and paired with delicious milk chocolate. This premium quality product comes in several varieties, including dark chocolate, 72% dark chocolate, imperial chocolate, and white chocolate.
The cherries used in Cherry Republic are known for their exceptional flavor, and the chocolate coating perfectly complements their natural tartness. The thick layer of chocolate and generous size of the cherries make these cordials an excellent choice for chocolate and cherry lovers.
3. Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries
Trader Joe’s is a trusted brand that has been providing quality products since 1967. Their Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries are a simple yet delicious treat made with dark chocolate and cherries. These candies contain no added flavors or colors, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer the pure taste of cocoa.
The dark chocolate used by Trader Joe’s dominates the flavor profile, creating a dessert that caters to the preferences of chocolate lovers. If you enjoy the rich and intense flavor of dark chocolate, these cherries will undoubtedly satisfy your cravings.
4. Cherry Bay Orchards Chocolate Covered Cherries
Cherry Bay Orchards offers a unique twist on traditional chocolate-covered cherries. They use juicy dried cherries instead of fresh, which gives the candies a different texture and flavor. These cherries are covered in the richest dark chocolate, creating a delightful contrast between the sweet cherries and the slightly bitter chocolate.
The use of dried cherries allows Cherry Bay Orchards to offer their chocolate-covered cherries year-round, making them a great option for those who crave this treat outside of the holiday season. If you enjoy the combination of tangy dried cherries and dark chocolate, this brand is worth a try.
5. SweetGourmet Sugar Free Dark Chocolate Cordial Cherry
For those looking for a sugar-free option, SweetGourmet offers a fantastic choice with their Sugar Free Dark Chocolate Cordial Cherry. These treats are made with whole, plump cherries covered in dark chocolate for a guilt-free indulgence.
Although sugar-free, SweetGourmet ensures that the cherries retain their natural sweetness and the dark chocolate provides a rich and satisfying taste. If you have dietary restrictions or simply prefer a sugar-free alternative, these cordials are an excellent option.
BOTTOM LINE
When it comes to chocolate-covered cherries, choosing the right brand is essential to ensure a delicious and high-quality experience. Whether you prefer dark or milk chocolate, liquid or solid filling, or a specific chocolate to cherry ratio, there is a brand to suit your preferences.
In this article, we have reviewed the top five brands of chocolate-covered cherries, including Cella’s, Cherry Republic, Trader Joe’s, Cherry Bay Orchards, and SweetGourmet. These brands have consistently delivered exceptional products that have been praised by customers.
Remember to consider your personal preferences, such as your chocolate flavor preferences and dietary restrictions, when choosing the best chocolate covered cherries for yourself or as a gift. With the information provided in this article, you can confidently choose a brand that will satisfy your craving for this delicious treat.
FAQS
What makes chocolate-covered cherries the best brand?
The best brands of chocolate covered cherries are known for using high-quality ingredients and delivering an unparalleled taste. They offer the perfect balance of juicy cherries, sweet fondant and creamy chocolate for a delicious treat.
Should I choose dark or milk chocolate for my chocolate-covered cherries?
The choice between dark and milk chocolate depends on your personal preference. Dark chocolate has a stronger flavor and is considered healthier, while milk chocolate is sweeter and creamier. Consider your taste preferences and dietary needs when making this decision.
What is the difference between liquid and solid cherry filling?
Chocolate-covered cherries can have either liquid or solid cherry fillings. Liquid-filled cherries have a clear, syrupy center that adds a burst of flavor when you bite into them. Solid-filled cherries, on the other hand, have whole cherries covered in chocolate, allowing you to enjoy the natural flavor of the fruit.
How important is the chocolate-to-cherry ratio in chocolate-covered cherries?
The chocolate to cherry ratio can have a significant impact on the overall taste and texture of chocolate covered cherries. A higher chocolate content provides a crispier and more chocolatey experience, while a lower ratio allows the cherry flavor to shine through. Choose a ratio that suits your preferences for the perfect balance.
Are there sugar-free options for chocolate-covered cherries?
Yes, there are sugar-free options for chocolate-covered cherries. Brands like SweetGourmet offer sugar-free versions that use alternative sweeteners to maintain the natural sweetness of the cherries while providing a guilt-free indulgence.
Can I enjoy chocolate-covered cherries outside of the holiday season?
Absolutely! While chocolate-covered cherries are often associated with the holidays, many brands offer them year-round. Brands like Cherry Bay Orchards use dried cherries instead of fresh, so you can enjoy this delicious treat any time of year.