Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Introduction

Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful and festive treat, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. These bite-sized confections combine the rich flavors of bourbon, pecans, and cherries, all coated in smooth chocolate for an irresistible indulgence.

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

1. Step 1: Combine the chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, place the softened butter. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and powdered sugar mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until everything is evenly combined.
4. Step 4: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
5. Step 5: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening (or coconut oil) in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
6. Step 6: 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.
7. Step 7: Press a candied cherry half onto the top of each chocolate-covered ball.
8. Step 8: Refrigerate the finished bourbon balls until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, substitute pecans with crushed graham crackers or omit them entirely.
• Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer chocolate flavor.
• If you prefer a non-alcoholic treat, replace bourbon with cherry juice or water.
• Chill the pecan and bourbon mixture longer for a stronger bourbon flavor.

Storage

Store cherry bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Bring to room temperature for about 10 minutes for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans. Just finely chop them and follow the same soaking method.

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing when melting?

Be sure to melt the chocolate slowly over low heat and stir frequently. Adding a bit of shortening or coconut oil helps keep the chocolate smooth and prevents it from seizing.

Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 128 reviews

These Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining the rich flavors of bourbon-soaked pecans, maraschino cherries, and smooth semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, these bite-sized confections offer a sweet and boozy indulgence with a festive cherry on top.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 30 balls 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Nut Mixture

• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
• ¼ cup bourbon
• ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries

Base

• ½ cup butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar

Chocolate Coating

• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil

Garnish

• 30 candied cherry halves

Instructions

1. Soak Pecans: Combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight to let the bourbon infuse the nuts with flavor.
2. Prepare Base Mixture: In a large bowl, place the softened butter. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar using a hand-held electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Nuts and Cherries: Stir the bourbon-soaked pecan mixture and finely chopped maraschino cherries into the butter and powdered sugar base using a wooden spoon until evenly combined.
4. Form Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place the balls on a tray or plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
5. Melt Chocolate Coating: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the chocolate from burning and ensure a smooth coating.
6. Coat Balls: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate mixture to coat evenly. Place the coated balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Garnish: Press a candied cherry half onto the top of each chocolate-coated ball while the coating is still wet.
8. Set and Chill: Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate is completely set and firm, about 30 minutes. Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.

Notes

• For a stronger bourbon flavor, increase the bourbon soaking time overnight.
• Substitute shortening with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Use wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking when chilling the balls.
• Store the bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Allow the balls to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer bite.

Keywords: cherry bourbon balls, bourbon balls, no-bake dessert, holiday treats, bourbon pecan balls, chocolate covered cherries