Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Garnish: Press a candied cherry half onto the top of each chocolate-coated ball while the coating is still wet.
- 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
Find it online: https://cookcrisis.com/cherry-bourbon-balls-recipe/
