National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is celebrated on January 3 each year. Chocolate-covered cherries, also called cordial cherries, feature a whole cherry surrounded by a sweet liquid center and coated in chocolate. They're a classic gift in boxes during the winter holidays, and they're especially popular right around the new year. The day celebrates this sweet, slightly mysterious candy.
History of National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day
Cherries preserved in sugar and liqueur have been enjoyed in Europe for centuries. In France, cherries soaked in brandy or kirsch were sometimes dipped in chocolate as a luxurious treat.
In the United States, chocolate-covered cherries became popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s as candy companies developed ways to produce them in large numbers. Boxed cordial cherries became a classic holiday gift.
The secret of the liquid center is an enzyme called invertase. Candy makers wrap each cherry in a firm fondant containing invertase, then coat it in chocolate. Over one to two weeks, the enzyme breaks down the sugar in the fondant into a syrupy liquid, creating the familiar gooey center. Who created National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is not documented.
Why National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day Matters
Chocolate-covered cherries are a nostalgic treat for many families, often shared during the holidays.
Their liquid centers are a fun example of food science, showing how enzymes can transform food over time.
Making them at home is a rewarding project that results in an elegant homemade gift.
Chocolate-covered cherries are also a lesson in kitchen chemistry. An enzyme called invertase, added to the fondant around the cherry, slowly breaks sugar down over a week or two. That's what turns the firm center into the sweet, syrupy liquid people love, so homemade versions need patience before they're ready to eat.
How to Celebrate National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day
- Enjoy a box: share chocolate-covered cherries with friends.
- Make them at home: wrap cherries in fondant and dip in chocolate.
- Try a twist: use dark chocolate or brandied cherries for adults.
- Bake with them: add chopped cordial cherries to brownies.
- Learn the science: read about how invertase works.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share a box of chocolate-covered cherries as a sweet start to the new year. In classrooms, students can learn how enzymes break down sugars, or compare candies from different countries. At home, families can make simple chocolate-dipped cherries together, with children helping to dip and decorate. Check for allergies and choose alcohol-free versions for kids.
Fun Facts About National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day
- The liquid center is created by an enzyme called invertase.
- The center liquefies over one to two weeks.
- Cordial cherries are a popular holiday gift.
National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day FAQs
When is National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day?
National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is celebrated on January 3 each year.
How do chocolate-covered cherries get liquid centers?
An enzyme called invertase turns the fondant around the cherry into syrup over one to two weeks.
Do chocolate-covered cherries contain alcohol?
Most commercial cordial cherries don't, but some homemade or European versions use liqueur.
What is a cordial cherry?
Another name for a chocolate-covered cherry with a liquid center.
How do you make chocolate-covered cherries at home?
Wrap cherries in fondant made with invertase, dip in chocolate and let them rest for a week or more.
When are chocolate-covered cherries most popular?
They're especially popular during the winter holidays.