Chocolate Cherry Nut Cups with Mixed Nuts and Dried Fruit

Prep: 10 minCook: 30 min36 piecesmediumAmerican
Chocolate Cherry Nut Cups with Mixed Nuts and Dried Fruit

These indulgent chocolate cups combine melted chocolate almond bark with a medley of dried cherries, roasted peanuts, macadamia nuts, and pumpkin seeds. Perfect for holiday gifting or special occasions, these bite-sized treats offer a delightful contrast of smooth chocolate and crunchy mix-ins. The simple no-bake method makes them accessible for any skill level, while the customizable filling combinations let you create variety in each batch.

Ingredients

Yield: 36 pieces
  • 24 oz chocolate almond bark, package
    dark chocolate chips1:1tree_nuts-free

    May need tempering for proper setting

  • ½ cup dried cherries
    dried cranberries1:1

    Similar tartness and texture

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup roasted peanuts
  • ½ cup macadamia nuts
    cashews1:1

    Similar creamy texture and mild flavor

    Full guide →
  • ¼ cup pumpkin seeds

Instructions

  1. 1

    Melt the chocolate bark in a small crock pot on low, stirring occasionally

  2. 2

    Place mini candy cup papers on a baking sheet or in a mini muffin pan

  3. 3

    Fill cups halfway with any combination of dried cherries and nuts

  4. 4

    Using a small cookie dough scoop, carefully fill the paper candy cups with chocolate bark

  5. 5

    Lightly tap the baking sheet or mini muffin pan on the counter to help the chocolate settle around the fruit and nuts

  6. 6

    If making combination flavors, top each candy cup with the corresponding dried fruit and nuts used

  7. 7

    Set aside to harden for at least an hour

  8. 8

    Package in treat bags for gifting

Tips

Tip 1

Tap the pan gently to remove air bubbles and ensure chocolate fills all gaps around the mix-ins

Tip 2

Customize each cup with different nut and fruit combinations for variety in your batch

Good to Know

Storage

Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks

Make Ahead

Can be made up to 1 week in advance for gifting or entertaining

Serve With

Serve at room temperature for best texture and flavor

Common Mistakes

Watch

Avoid overheating chocolate to prevent seizing or burning

Watch

Don't overfill cups to prevent chocolate overflow when tapping

Substitutions

Nut-Free Alternatives

chocolate almond bark
dark chocolate chips1:1tree_nuts-free

May need tempering for proper setting

Full guide →

General Alternatives

dried cherries
dried cranberries1:1

Similar tartness and texture

Full guide →
macadamia nuts
cashews1:1

Similar creamy texture and mild flavor

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of almond bark?

Yes, but you may need to add a small amount of coconut oil or shortening to help the chocolate set properly and achieve the right consistency.

How long do these need to set before removing from papers?

Allow at least one hour at room temperature, or 30 minutes in the refrigerator for faster setting before handling.

Can I freeze these for longer storage?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to prevent condensation.