Chocolate Covered Cherry Day

 

On 3 January each year, we celebrate what many people term as Chocolate Covered Cherry Day. Chocolate Covered Cherry day celebrates a classic combination of ingredients, flavors, and a whole lot of sweet indulgence.

 

Chocolate and cherries have been together for a long time. However, the exact origin of Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is unknown. Some say it came from the candy called ‘chocolate covered cherry’, while others believe it started because of the connection made between the holiday of Valentine’s Day and the tradition of giving chocolate and cherry treats as gifts.

 

No matter the original source of this delicious holiday, Chocolate Covered Cherry Day marks a time when people get to enjoy the combination of two of the most beloved flavors of all time.

 

 

In the early 1800s, a candymaker from the US city of Boston called John Park started making a popular brand of candy known as chocolate covered cherries. While its exact recipe was never fully revealed, Park was known to have used small cherries, which were then covered with a mix of chocolate and emulsifiers. This became a popular treat, which Park sold in his stores around America.

 

In the early 1930s, the Curtiss Candy Company, another US candy maker, began to manufacture a candy known as the “Curtiss Cherry Mash”. This was a cherry-filled chocolate bar made from Park’s original recipe. The candy became a favorite amongst candy lovers throughout the US and eventually, other companies started producing their own chocolate-covered cherry candies.

 

Today, stores across the US stock a large variety of chocolates covered in different proteins such as almonds, hazelnuts, and peanuts. However, despite the wide variety of flavors, chocolate covered cherries remain the favorite.

 

 

One of the main benefits of chocolate covered cherries is the fact that they are a great source of antioxidants. Chocolate has long been known to contain antioxidants, which are substances that reduce the oxidative damage done to cells by free radicals. Free radicals can cause many health issues, including cancer, heart disease, and inflammation.

 

The antioxidants found in chocolate contain polyphenols and flavonoids, which can help fight off free radicals and lower a person’s risk of developing such diseases. Additionally, research has found that dark chocolate, which is the type mostly used for chocolate covered cherries, can help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

 

Cherries are also full of health benefits. They contain high levels of vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin C and potassium. They also contain powerful antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, cherries are a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for maintaining gut health.

 

Finally, chocolate covered cherries provide a sweet indulgence that can give people a little pick-me-up during a much-needed break.

 

 

There are lots of ways to celebrate Chocolate Covered Cherry Day. One of the most popular ways is to make your own chocolate covered cherries using store-bought chocolate and cherries. You can also buy ready-made chocolate covered cherries from your local store, or even order them online.

 

You can also add a special twist to these delicious treats. Add some almonds, peanuts, or even dried cranberries to the outsides of the cherries and cover them with melted chocolate. This way, you can make the treats even more delicious and personal.

 

If you want to celebrate Chocolate Covered Cherry Day in a more creative way, why not make a cake that features this classic combination? You can use store-bought pre-made cake mix topped with a generous coating of melted chocolate and some sugared cherries. You can also use cream cheese frosting and even add a touch of almond extract to really take the flavors to the next level.

 

Chocolate covered cherry desserts don’t have to be complicated either. You can also use marshmallows and cherries to make a simple and delicious snack. Slice up some cherries, dip them into melted chocolate, and then top the marshmallows with them. The end result is a sweet and delicious treat that’s perfect for any celebration.

 

 

Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is a holiday that celebrates the classic combination of chocolate and cherries. This simple combination is not only delicious but also provides many health benefits. From making your own chocolate covered cherries to creating a masterpiece of a cake, there are lots of ways to celebrate this special day. So, grab some chocolate and cherries, and let the celebrations begin!