Why Make This Recipe
Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and nutty flavors. They’re ideal for families, especially during the holidays or any time you’re looking for a special dessert at home. Not only are they tasty, but they also bring a bit of fun to family gatherings or quiet evenings. The best part? You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to whip these up! They require just a few simple steps and ingredients, making them a perfect activity to invite the kids into the kitchen for some hands-on fun.
How to Make Cherry Bourbon Balls
These Cherry Bourbon Balls are simple to make and incredibly rewarding. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 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
Directions
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. 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. This is a perfect job for the kids; they can have fun mixing!Combine Flavors
Stir in the non-alcoholic cherry juice, finely chopped maraschino cherries, and finely chopped pecans until well combined. The bright colors are so inviting!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. This waiting time is great for setting the mood with some family games or a movie!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 to make them look extra special!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 treats make a perfect dessert after dinner or a sweet snack during the day. They’re great for parties too! You can serve them on a pretty plate or even in festive cupcake liners for a charming touch. Watch your family’s faces light up as they dig in!
How to Store Cherry Bourbon Balls
Leftovers? No problem! Store the Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about a week, but trust me, they may not last that long! You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just let them thaw in the fridge before serving.
Tips to Make Cherry Bourbon Balls
- Involvement: Get the kids involved in every step. They can help with mixing, rolling, and even coating the balls.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and just roll the balls the next day. This way, it’s even easier if you have a busy schedule!
- Substitutions: If you can’t find maraschino cherries, feel free to use dried cherries or chopped fresh ones. They add a nice tartness too!
Variation
If your family isn’t a fan of cherries, try substituting with crushed cookies like Oreos for a different flavor. You can get creative with flavors—not all variations need to be traditional!
FAQs
Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! If someone in your family doesn’t like pecans, feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds.
What can I use instead of shortening?
Coconut oil is a great substitute for shortening as it adds a hint of flavor, and there are no worries about using products with additives.
Is there a non-chocolate coating?
Yes! Instead of rolling them in powdered sugar, try rolling the balls in crushed graham crackers or coconut flakes for some variation!
Enjoy making these Cherry Bourbon Balls with your family! They’re a wonderful way to create memories in the kitchen while enjoying some sweet treats together. Happy baking!
Cherry Bourbon Balls
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 30 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and nutty flavors, making them ideal for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening until smooth. Stir occasionally. Let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with 3 cups of the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the cherry juice, chopped maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans until well combined.
- Gradually add the cooled melted chocolate mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until thoroughly combined and a uniform dough forms.
- Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle.
- Scoop small portions (about 1 tablespoon) of the chilled mixture and roll them into smooth, round balls.
- 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.
- Arrange the coated Cherry Bourbon Balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to firm up completely before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to a month. If using other nuts or substitutions, adapt as necessary.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: cherry dessert, holiday treat, bourbon balls, family recipe, easy dessert