Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
Introduction
Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful bite-sized treat combining rich bourbon, sweet cherries, and smooth chocolate. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting, these indulgent confections are surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup bourbon
- 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
- Step 1: Combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 2: Place the softened butter in a large bowl. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until well combined and smooth.
- Step 3: Add the bourbon-pecan mixture and chopped maraschino cherries to the bowl. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Step 4: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Step 5: In a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Step 6: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate mixture, coating it thoroughly. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 7: Press a candied cherry half on top of each chocolate-coated ball. Refrigerate until the chocolate is set and firm.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute pecans with crushed graham crackers or skip nuts altogether.
- Use coconut oil instead of shortening for a subtle tropical flavor and smoother texture.
- Try using dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet coating.
- Make these treats ahead of time—they taste even better after resting for a day or two.
Storage
Store Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. They can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon?
Yes, you can substitute bourbon with whiskey, rum, or brandy to suit your taste preferences. Each will give a slightly different but delicious flavor.
How do I prevent the chocolate from getting sticky at room temperature?
Keep the finished bourbon balls refrigerated until serving, especially in warm environments. The chocolate coating may become sticky if left out for too long.
PrintCherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining the rich flavors of pecans, bourbon, and maraschino cherries, all coated in smooth semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet indulgence, these bite-sized confections offer a perfect balance of nutty, boozy, and chocolaty goodness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes plus at least 1 hour soaking and chilling
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (melting chocolate and coating)
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes to overnight including chilling times
- Yield: Approximately 30 cherry bourbon balls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Nuts and Fruit
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
Base and Sweetener
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Coating
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
- 30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
- Soak Pecans in Bourbon: Combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl, then let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Butter and Sugar Mixture: Place the softened butter in a large bowl. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until well combined and creamy.
- Mix in Pecans and Cherries: Add the bourbon-infused pecan mixture and chopped maraschino cherries to the bowl. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until evenly incorporated into the buttery sugary base.
- Form Balls and Chill: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up before coating.
- Melt Chocolate Coating: In a medium heavy-bottom saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening or coconut oil. Stir constantly and carefully to prevent burning and achieve a smooth coating.
- Coat Balls in Chocolate: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the coated balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and press a candied cherry half on top of each one.
- Set and Serve: Refrigerate the chocolate-coated balls until the chocolate is fully set and firm. Serve chilled and enjoy these rich, flavorful treats.
Notes
- Allowing pecans to soak overnight enhances the bourbon flavor.
- Use softened butter to ensure smooth mixing with powdered sugar.
- Shortening or coconut oil helps the chocolate coating to harden glossy and prevents cracking.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with orange juice or cherry juice.
Keywords: cherry bourbon balls, bourbon candy, no-bake desserts, chocolate pecan balls, holiday treats
