Cherry Bourbon Balls are an easy and delightful treat that will surely brighten up your gatherings. These little bites are sweet, rich, and loaded with the warm flavor of cherries and chocolate. They are perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy afternoon snack with the family.

Why You Will Love This Cherry Bourbon Balls

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for beginner cooks. The combination of chocolate, cherries, and pecans creates a sweet and nutty flavor that everyone will love. Plus, with just a bit of chilling time, you can whip these up with minimal fuss. They use everyday ingredients, so you probably already have most of them in your kitchen.

How to Make Cherry Bourbon Balls

Making these treats is a simple process. You start by mixing your ingredients to create a flavorful dough, then you chill it and form it into balls. A quick coat of powdered sugar and a candied cherry on top make for a lovely finish that’s sure to impress. It’s an easy way to bring some sweetness into your day!

What You Need

¾ cup finely chopped pecans
¼ cup cherry juice (non-alcoholic alternative)
¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
½ cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
30 candied cherry halves

Step-by-Step

Melt Chocolate & Shortening: In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening (or coconut oil) until smooth. Stir occasionally and let cool slightly.
Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with 3 cups of the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Combine Flavors: Stir in the non-alcoholic cherry juice, finely chopped maraschino cherries, and finely chopped pecans until well combined.
Integrate Chocolate: Gradually add the slightly cooled melted chocolate mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until thoroughly combined and a uniform “dough” forms.
Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle and roll.
Form Balls: Scoop small portions (about 1 tablespoon) of the chilled mixture and roll them between your palms into smooth, round balls.
Coat & Garnish: Place the remaining 1 cup of powdered sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each ball in the powdered sugar until evenly coated. Top each ball with a candied cherry half.
Final Chill: Arrange the coated Cherry Bourbon Balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to firm up completely before serving or storing.

How to Serve Cherry Bourbon Balls

These delightful treats make a wonderful addition to dessert tables, holiday cookie trays, or simply enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them at parties, gatherings, or as a sweet gift for friends and family. The vibrant colors make them visually appealing, and the taste is even better!

How to Store Cherry Bourbon Balls

To keep your Cherry Bourbon Balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Recipe Tips

Chill Time: Make sure to chill the mixture long enough so it’s easy to handle.
Coating: For a different look, try rolling the balls in crushed graham crackers instead of powdered sugar.
Add Flavor: Experiment with almond or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Texture: Ensure your butter is softened for easy mixing; it should slightly hold an indentation when pressed.
Swaps: If you want a nut-free version, just leave out the pecans!

Variations & Swaps

Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
Fruit Swap: Try using diced dried cranberries instead of cherries for a different fruity flavor.
Chocolate Choice: Use white chocolate for a sweeter twist or dark chocolate for a richer taste.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these treats are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them a few days in advance and store them in the fridge. They also taste great after a day or two, as the flavors meld together.

Can I freeze these?
Absolutely! They freeze very well. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They will last up to three months in the freezer.

How do I reheat them?
These treats are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Just take them out of the fridge and let them sit for a few minutes before serving.

What if I don’t have cherry juice?
You can substitute cherry juice with apple juice or cranberry juice for a different flavor profile.

What are some common mistakes to avoid?
Make sure to chill the dough well enough to roll without sticking. If it’s too soft, it will be challenging to form balls. Also, be careful not to over-melt the chocolate, as it can become too thick to mix easily.