Prepare the Cherries

1. Drain the Cherries: Start by draining the maraschino cherries and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is essential to ensure the chocolate sticks properly and doesn’t slide off.
2. Remove the Stems: Carefully remove the stems from the cherries, as you’ll want them to be fully coated in chocolate. Be gentle to avoid breaking the cherries.
3. Make the Filling: In a small mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well mixed and smooth.
4. Fill the Cherries: Take a small amount of the coconut mixture and gently stuff it inside the cherries. Try to pack it in just enough to create a nice, rounded shape, but not too much that it overflows. The filling will help to hold the chocolate in place once you coat the cherries.

Coat the Cherries in Chocolate

1. Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
2. Dip the Cherries: Using a fork or a toothpick, dip each stuffed cherry into the melted chocolate. Make sure to coat the entire cherry evenly, letting any excess chocolate drip off. If you want a thicker coating, you can dip the cherries twice, allowing the first layer to harden slightly before adding the second.
3. Place on a Tray: Once each cherry is coated, place it on a parchment-lined baking tray. Leave a little space between each cherry to prevent them from sticking together.

Let the Chocolate Set

1. Chill the Cherries: After all the cherries are coated in chocolate, place the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden completely. If you’re in a rush, you can also place the tray in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate has set, you’re ready to enjoy your homemade chocolate-covered cherries! They’re perfect for snacking, gifting, or serving as a festive treat.