National Chocolate-Covered Cherries Day

National Chocolate Covered Cherries Day (January 3rd): A Sweet Start to the New Year

January is all about fresh beginnings but that doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to joy. On January 3rd, National Chocolate Covered Cherries Day, we celebrate a timeless confection that perfectly balances indulgence and simplicity. Chocolate covered cherries are nostalgic, elegant, and surprisingly approachable to make at home, making them a perfect fit for the Good Thyme Gal philosophy.

This delicious holiday invites us to slow down after the rush of the holidays, savor small pleasures, and begin the year with intention, and chocolate.

Why National Chocolate Covered Cherries Day Is Important

1. Honoring a Classic Confection

Chocolate covered cherries have been beloved for generations. Whether you remember them from special occasions, candy boxes, or homemade gifts, they represent thoughtful indulgence. National Chocolate Covered Cherries Day preserves the tradition of handcrafted sweets in a world that often moves too fast.

Celebrating this day encourages home cooks to reconnect with classic recipes and rediscover the joy of making something beautiful by hand.

2. A Mindful Approach to Sweet Treats

Unlike overly processed desserts, chocolate covered cherries rely on just a few quality ingredients: fruit, chocolate, and often a simple filling. This makes them a wonderful example of mindful indulgence, something Good Thyme Gal stands for wholeheartedly.

This holiday reminds us that treats don’t have to be excessive to be special.

3. Seasonal and Accessible

January is an ideal time to enjoy chocolate covered cherries. They feel luxurious without being tied to a single holiday, making them perfect for winter entertaining, homemade gifts, or a cozy night in. With canned or jarred cherries readily available, this treat is affordable and accessible year-round.

Why This Day Aligns with Good Thyme Gal

At Good Thyme Gal, food is about comfort, creativity, and connection. National Chocolate Covered Cherries Day aligns beautifully with those values:

• It celebrates timeless recipes with modern flexibility

• It encourages home cooks of all skill levels

• It emphasizes quality over excess

• It turns simple ingredients into something special

Chocolate covered cherries embody the idea that food can be both nostalgic and empowering, exactly what Good Thyme Gal strives to share with its community.

Good Thyme Gal Easy Chocolate Covered Cherries Recipe

An equitable, affordable recipe perfect for beginners and gifting.

Ingredients (Makes about 20 cherries)

• 20 maraschino or jarred cherries, stems on if possible

• 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips

• 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for smooth melting)

Optional Filling Upgrade:

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 tablespoon softened butter

• 1/2 teaspoon cherry juice or almond extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the cherries:Drain cherries well and pat completely dry. Moisture will prevent the chocolate from sticking.

2. (Optional) Make the filling:Mix powdered sugar, butter, and cherry juice until smooth. Wrap a small amount around each cherry, then chill for 20 minutes.

3. Melt the chocolate:In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.

4. Dip the cherries:Hold cherries by the stem and dip into melted chocolate, swirling to coat evenly.

5. Set and chill:Place on parchment paper and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until firm.

6. Serve or store:Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

   
   

A Sweet Way to Begin the Year

National Chocolate Covered Cherries Day is about celebrating small joys, honoring tradition, and savoring sweetness in a balanced way. It’s the perfect reminder that the new year doesn’t need to start with restriction, It can start with intention, creativity, and a little chocolate.

From my kitchen to yours, may this simple treat bring warmth, joy, and a delicious start to the year.

Happy National Chocolate Covered Cherries Day!– Good Thyme Gal 💛