Dark Chocolate Cherry Cups (Easy No-Bake Candy)

If you’re looking for a Pinterest-worthy dessert that’s elegant, easy, and irresistibly delicious, these Dark Chocolate Cherry Cups are about to become your new favorite treat. They’re the kind of homemade candy that looks fancy enough for the holidays but is simple enough to make on a busy weekday evening.

I first started making these chocolate cherry cups during the winter, when fresh fruit felt like a distant summer memory. Using frozen cherries turned out to be the perfect solution. Paired with rich dark chocolate, they bring a bright, fruity contrast that feels indulgent yet balanced. The result is a small, satisfying dessert that hits all the right notes: sweet, slightly tart, chocolatey, and smooth.

These cups are naturally sweetened, require no baking, and come together with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re making them for guests, gifting them during the holidays, or storing them in the fridge for a quick chocolate fix, they never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love These Dark Chocolate Cherry Cups

• 🍒 Perfect chocolate–fruit combo: cherry and dark chocolate are a classic pairing
• 🍫 Rich but not heavy thanks to naturally sweetened cherry chia jam
• ⏱ Quick & easy: no oven, minimal prep
• 🌱 Made with simple ingredients you can actually pronounce
• 🎁 Great for gifting or entertaining
• ❄️ Freezer-friendly and perfect to make ahead

Do you prefer your chocolate desserts extra dark and intense, or a little sweeter and milder?

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make about 16 Dark Chocolate Cherry Cups, gather the following:

• 200 g dark chocolate
  Choose a high-quality chocolate you truly enjoy eating on its own. I recommend 60–70% cocoa for the best balance with the cherries.
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, divided
  Coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives the cups a glossy finish.
• 1 cup cherry chia jam (about 2.5 dl)
  This naturally sweetened filling is made with cherries and chia seeds. Frozen cherries work beautifully here. If cherries aren’t available, raspberries are an excellent substitute.
• Optional topping: freeze-dried raspberries
  Adds a pop of color, texture, and a slightly tart crunch that looks gorgeous on Pinterest photos.

How to Make Dark Chocolate Cherry Cups (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the mold

Line a mini muffin pan with 16 paper liners. This makes removing the cups easy and keeps their shape perfect.

2. Melt the first batch of chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, add half of the dark chocolate and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil.
Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir well. If needed, microwave for another 30 seconds and stir again until completely melted and smooth.

3. Form the chocolate cups

Spoon the melted chocolate evenly into the paper liners. Using the back of a spoon, gently push the chocolate up the sides to form a small “cup” shape.

4. Freeze

Place the muffin pan in the freezer for 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.

5. Add the cherry filling

Remove from the freezer and add about 1 teaspoon of cherry chia jam to the center of each chocolate cup.
Return to the freezer for another 15 minutes so the filling firms up slightly.

6. Melt the remaining chocolate

Melt the rest of the chocolate with the remaining 1 tablespoon coconut oil, using the same microwave method as before.

7. Seal the cups

Spoon the melted chocolate over the cherry filling, completely covering it. Gently tap the pan to smooth the tops.

8. Add toppings & freeze again

Sprinkle with freeze-dried raspberries if using. Place back in the freezer for 15 minutes, or until fully firm.

9. Store and enjoy

Store the cups in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating for the best texture.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cherry Cups

• Use good quality chocolate – it makes a big difference in flavor
• Don’t overfill with jam, or it may leak when sealing
• If your kitchen is warm, work quickly and freeze between steps
• For extra shine, make sure no water touches the melted chocolate

Variations to Try

• Raspberry Chocolate Cups: swap cherry jam for raspberry chia jam
• Orange Cherry Chocolate: add a pinch of orange zest to the chocolate
• Nutty Version: sprinkle chopped almonds or pistachios on top
• Extra Dark: use 85% dark chocolate for a more intense bite

How to Store

• Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
• Freezer: keep for up to 1 month
• Let thaw for 5–10 minutes before serving if frozen

Final Thoughts

These Dark Chocolate Cherry Cups are proof that homemade candy doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and a little freezer time, you get a dessert that’s elegant, flavorful, and perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share your creations on Pinterest and Instagram. Happy no-bake dessert making! 🍒🍫

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