Name: Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
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 (divided: 3 cups for dough, 1 cup for coating); 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil; 30 candied cherry halves

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Introduction

Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining rich chocolate, buttery sweetness, and bursts of cherry flavor. These bite-sized confections are perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.

The image shows seven round chocolate truffles on a white plate with a white marbled texture. Each truffle is covered in dark brown smooth chocolate and topped with a bright red cherry piece. One truffle in front is cut in half, revealing a creamy white inside mixed with small dark chocolate chips and red fruit bits. The chocolates have a slightly shiny surface, and the plate sits on a clean white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: 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.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with 3 cups of the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Stir in the non-alcoholic cherry juice, finely chopped maraschino cherries, and finely chopped pecans until well combined.
Step 4: Gradually add the slightly cooled melted chocolate mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until thoroughly combined and a uniform ‘dough’ forms.
Step 5: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle and roll.
Step 6: Scoop small portions (about 1 tablespoon) of the chilled mixture and roll them between your palms into smooth, round balls.
Step 7: 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.
Step 8: 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.

Tips & Variations

For a true bourbon flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon in place of some or all of the cherry juice if alcohol is preferred.
Use chopped walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty taste.
Try rolling the balls in crushed nuts or cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar for varied coatings.

Storage

Store Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. To serve, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with seven round chocolate-covered treats, each topped with a bright red cherry half. One treat in the front is bitten, showing three layers: a smooth dark brown chocolate coating on the outside, a soft white inside speckled with small red bits, likely cherry pieces, in the center. The treats have a glossy finish on the cherries and a slightly bumpy texture on the chocolate. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these without cherries?

Yes, you can omit the maraschino cherries and cherry juice if desired. Substitute with a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract for a different flavor twist.

Do these need to be refrigerated?

Yes, refrigeration helps the mixture firm up and keeps the balls fresh. They taste best chilled or slightly softened at room temperature before serving.