Cherry Bourbon Balls: No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Holiday Treats Recipe

If you are dreaming of a holiday treat that feels both indulgent and effortlessly elegant, then the Cherry Bourbon Balls: No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Holiday Treats Recipe is your new best friend. These little bites bring together the festive flavors of sweet cherries, toasted pecans, the warm caress of bourbon, and a luscious chocolate coating that simply melts in your mouth. Whether you are assembling a Christmas dessert platter or looking for a special handmade gift, these cherry bourbon balls hit just the right note of traditional charm and sophisticated sweetness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully simple but each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the crunch of pecans to the silky finish of melted chocolate, every component pulls its weight beautifully.

• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans: Toast them lightly for a deeper nutty flavor that adds crunch and aroma.
• ¼ cup bourbon: This warm spirit gives a subtle kick and enriches the cherry and chocolate flavors.
• ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries: For sweet bursts of vibrant color and fruity notes.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture smoothly.
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted: Provides the sweetness and structure needed for shaping the balls.
• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted for that shiny, rich chocolate coating that completes each bite.
• 2 tbsp shortening or coconut oil: Blended into chocolate for a glossy, smooth dipping texture.
• 30 candied cherry halves: For an eye-catching garnish that signals festive indulgence.

How to Make Cherry Bourbon Balls: No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Holiday Treats Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Pecans

Start by infusing your pecans with bourbon flavor. Toss the finely chopped pecans with bourbon in a bowl and let them soak for at least one hour, or even better, overnight. This step allows the nuts to absorb that signature warmth and depth, a critical foundation for the entire recipe.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

Next, cream the softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar while beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This sweet, buttery base gives your bourbon balls their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now, gently fold in the bourbon-soaked pecans and the finely chopped maraschino cherries into the buttery sugar mixture. Mixing these ingredients evenly ensures every bite bursts with flavor and crunch.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place each shaped ball on a parchment-lined tray, then pop the tray into the refrigerator for about one hour. Chilling helps the mixture firm up, so they hold their shape during the chocolate coating process.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

Over low heat, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with shortening or coconut oil in a saucepan. Stir constantly until smooth and glossy. The shortening gives the chocolate a silky texture that coats each ball with a beautiful shine.

Step 6: Dip and Garnish

Using forks or toothpicks, carefully dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, completely covering it. Place the chocolate-coated balls back on parchment paper and immediately top each one with a candied cherry half for that classic holiday look.

Step 7: Set and Serve

Finally, refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate is fully set. Once firm, store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to impress your guests or gift these delicious treasures.

How to Serve Cherry Bourbon Balls: No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Holiday Treats Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond the iconic candied cherry halves, you can add a festive touch with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and add a bit of extra texture.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cherry Bourbon Balls: No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Holiday Treats Recipe with a hot cup of coffee, spiced tea, or a holiday cocktail like eggnog or mulled wine. The rich and creamy profiles of these drinks complement the bourbon and chocolate flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, arrange the bourbon balls in decorative boxes lined with festive tissue paper or place them in a glass jar tied with a colorful ribbon. When serving at parties, a tiered dessert tray adorned with holly or pine sprigs adds instant holiday charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cherry bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and maintains the perfect texture for up to two weeks, making them great for preparing well in advance.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats even longer, freezing is a wonderful option. Place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay delicious for up to two months.

Reheating

Since these are no-bake, simply allow frozen balls to thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before serving. Avoid microwaving as it will melt the chocolate coating and change the texture.

FAQs

Can I make these bourbon balls without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can substitute the bourbon with cherry juice or apple juice to enjoy a kid-friendly or alcohol-free version while keeping that lovely cherry flavor intact.

Do I have to use pecans, or can I use other nuts?

Pecans are traditional and bring a rich, buttery crunch, but you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just toast them lightly to enhance their flavor before soaking in bourbon for maximum taste.

Why use shortening or coconut oil in the chocolate?

The addition of shortening or coconut oil helps create a smooth, glossy chocolate coating that hardens nicely and doesn’t crack easily. It also makes dipping easier by thinning the melted chocolate a bit.

How long do these bourbon balls last?

When refrigerated in an airtight container, they remain fresh for up to two weeks. If frozen, they can last for around two months without losing flavor or texture.

Can I make these ahead for holiday parties?

Yes! In fact, the flavors improve when the balls have a chance to rest and meld together. Making them a day or two ahead is perfect and helps reduce last-minute stress.

Final Thoughts

Bringing together rich chocolate, warm bourbon, juicy cherries, and crunchy pecans, the Cherry Bourbon Balls: No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Holiday Treats Recipe is an absolute must-try this holiday season. They’re easy to make, endlessly festive, and guaranteed to be a hit whether you’re sharing them at a family gathering or gifting them to friends. Trust me, once you try these charming little bites, they’ll become your go-to holiday indulgence year after year!

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