Who can say no to biting into a rich chocolate shell and finding a spiked, liquid surprise inside? Chocolate liquor cordials are a tasty mix of creamy chocolate and a boozy center that’s perfect for any celebration. In this blog post, we’ll show you an easy step-by-step recipe to make these yummy treats at home with a cherry twist.
What are chocolate liquor cordials?
Chocolate cordials are bite-sized confections with a liquid center surrounded by a thin chocolate shell. They usually have a rich chocolate exterior and a liquid or semi-liquid filling, often flavored with alcohol. When you bite into them, you get a burst of liquid flavor that combines the sweetness of chocolate with the smooth boozy taste of the center. These treats are loved as desserts, gifts, or simply as a sweet indulgence on special occasions.
A point of clarification, to avoid any confusion… in the chocolate industry, “chocolate liquor” is the term used to describe 100% dark chocolate. It contains no alcohol. Whereas, a chocolate cordial is made with liquor or liqueur and contains alcohol.
The history of chocolate liquor cordials
Chocolate liquor cordials originated in Europe in the early 19th century. These treats quickly become popular, especially in places like Belgium and France, known for their high-quality chocolates. . Skilled chocolate makers crafted these candies by hand, making them a special and luxurious treat for celebrations or special gifts.
As chocolate production methods improved and chocolate-making spread to other countries, so did the popularity of chocolate liquor cordials. Different regions started adding their own local liquors, flavorings and ingredients to the fillings, giving a new spin to the classic recipe.
Today, chocolate cordials are enjoyed all around the world. While they’ve changed a bit over time, the main idea remains the same – a perfect mix of creamy chocolate with a delicious liquid center that’s a joy to eat.
Ingredients overview
- Chocolate: High quality dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
- Liquor: Choose your favorite liquor, such as brandy, rum, whiskey, or flavored liqueurs like Grand Marnier or Amaretto.
- Sugar: To sweeten and balance the bitterness of the chocolate and the alcohol.
- Flavorings): Vanilla extract, orange zest, or other flavorings to enhance the taste.
Cherry chocolate liquor cordials recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 oz dark chocolate
- 1 Cup cherry liqueur (such as cherry brandy or kirsch)
- Jar of cocktail cherries
- ½ Cup of sugar
Method:
- Soak the cherries in a 1/2 cup of cherry liqueur for 1 hour.
- Melt the chocolate. You can do this in a microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. Make sure to temper the chocolate if you want it to look shiny and not melt in your hands when you eat it.
- Pour the melted chocolate into the molds all the way to the top. For more precise and effortless pouring, you can use a piping bag (Read more about Proper Chocolate Molding Techniques).
- Gently tap the mold against the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Turn your mold upside down (over a bowl or pan) to allow the chocolate to pour out of the mold (save this chocolate for the final sealing step). The goal is to create a thin, even layer on the inside of each cavity, forming the shell for the cordials.
- Use an offset spatula or scraper to clean off any remaining chocolate from the top of the mold. A thin coating of chocolate should remain in each cavity of the mold.
- Place the coated molds in the refrigerator to set for about 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine the remaining cherry liquor and sugar. Cook until the mixture reaches a syrupy consistency. Allow it to cool.
- Remove the chocolate-coated molds from the refrigerator. Partially fill each mold cavity with a soaked cherry and liquor mixture, leaving a small space at the top.
- Use the remaining melted chocolate to cover the tops of the filled molds, sealing the cordials.
- Return the molds to the refrigerator and allow them to set for another 20-30 minutes.
- Once set, carefully remove the chocolate liquor cordials from the molds. Invert the mold on a tray and gently tap to release the chocolates.
Enjoy!
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