Brandied Chocolate Covered Cherries

Ingredients

• 50 maraschino cherries, well drained
• 3/4 cup brandy
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
• 1 1/2 pounds dipping chocolate, white or dark

Instructions

1. Pour brandy over drained cherries; let set for two days.
2. Combine butter, corn syrup and salt; blend until smooth.
3. Add confectioners' sugar and mix well. Knead until smooth and shiny; wrap in wax paper and chill for 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, drain cherries well on paper towels; pat dry.
5. Shape a marble-size piece of fondant around each cherry; place on wax paper-lined tray.
6. Chill until firm, about 2 hours.
7. Melt chocolate over hot water, stirring constantly.
8. Dip cherries and place on wax paper-lined tray.
9. Place in refrigerator to set.
10. Store in covered container in a cool, dark place for 10 to 14 days to fully ripen and to attain the liquid inside.

Notes

If you desire a non-alcoholic version, do not soak cherries in brandy. Proceed with the recipe, omitting that step.