We all deserve a treat and Christmastime is the perfect time to turn your kitchen production into elf-like magic. Try my Peppermint Chocolate Covered Cherries for the ultimate gifting treat, if you can keep your family from eating the goodies, first… You will need Maraschino cherries with stems, milk chocolate for melting, and peppermint candy. First, in a sturdy plastic bag, finely crush the peppermint candy to coat the chocolate covered cherries. In a double-boiler, melt the chocolate. Empty the cherry jar onto paper towels and pat the cherries dry so that the chocolate adheres to the cherries. One at a time, dip the cherries in the chocolate, then the peppermint crunch until all are covered. Box up the holiday treats for gift giving and the let the happy moments begin! © Kelly McBride Loft