Cherry Bourbon Balls

If you’re looking for a treat that’s both delightful and easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! Cherry Bourbon Balls are a family favorite in my home. These little bites of joy are rich, buttery, and bursting with the sweet flavor of maraschino cherries. Perfect for holiday gatherings or just because, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them.

What makes these Cherry Bourbon Balls so special is their balance of textures and flavors. The crunchy pecans combined with a smooth chocolate coating create an indulgent dessert that feels festive yet approachable. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively Kentucky Derby Party, these treats fit right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and a few ingredients, whipping up these Cherry Bourbon Balls is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chocolate-covered treats! Kids and adults alike will enjoy this sweet snack.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these ahead of time, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pecans, cherries, and chocolate creates an irresistible taste that will have your guests asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Cherry Bourbon Balls, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that blend together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Base

• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
• ¼ cup bourbon
• ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
• ½ cup butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar

For the Coating

• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
• 30 candied cherry halves

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your Cherry Bourbon Balls. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Try Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a new twist on flavor.
• Add Spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm depth to your balls.
• Change the Chocolate: Use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter treat.
• Make Them Mini: Roll smaller balls for bite-sized delights that are perfect for parties!

How to Make Cherry Bourbon Balls

Step 1: Combine Pecans and Bourbon

Start by combining the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Let this mixture sit for at least one hour or overnight if you can. Soaking the pecans helps them absorb some bourbon flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, place your softened butter. Using a handheld electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar. This step is crucial as it creates a creamy base that will hold everything together nicely.

Step 3: Mix in Pecans and Cherries

Once your butter mixture is fluffy, stir in the pecan-bourbon mixture along with the chopped maraschino cherries. Use a wooden spoon to mix until everything is evenly combined. This ensures every bite bursts with flavor!

Step 4: Shape into Balls

Now it’s time to shape your mixture into 1-inch balls. Cover them with plastic wrap and pop them into the fridge for at least an hour. Chilling makes them easier to coat later on.

Step 5: Melt Chocolate

In a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips along with either shortening or coconut oil. Stir frequently to prevent burning. This melted chocolate coating is what makes these Cherry Bourbon Balls so decadent!

Step 6: Coat the Balls

Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate mixture until fully coated. Place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and press a candied cherry half on top of each one for that finishing touch.

Step 7: Chill Until Set

Finally, refrigerate your Cherry Bourbon Balls until they’re set—not too long now! Once firm, they’re ready to be enjoyed by all.

Enjoy making these delicious bites! I can’t wait for you to share them with your family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Bourbon Balls

Making Cherry Bourbon Balls is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a batch that everyone will love!

• Choose quality bourbon: The flavor of the bourbon shines through in these treats, so opt for a good-quality bourbon to enhance the overall taste.
• Chill the dough: After shaping the balls, chilling them ensures they hold their shape better when being coated in chocolate, making for a neater finish.
• Use a double boiler for melting chocolate: This method allows for more controlled melting, preventing the chocolate from burning and ensuring a smooth coating.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Instead of just candied cherries, try crushed nuts or sprinkles for added texture and visual appeal.
• Store properly: Keep your finished Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks!

How to Serve Cherry Bourbon Balls

Cherry Bourbon Balls make a charming addition to any gathering. With their rich flavors and festive appearance, they can be presented in various ways that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the chocolate coating for an extra crunch.
• Edible glitter: A light dusting of edible glitter can add a touch of sparkle, making them perfect for holiday parties or special occasions.

Side Dishes

• Fruit platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits pairs beautifully with the richness of Cherry Bourbon Balls, refreshing the palate.
• Cheese board: Include a selection of soft cheeses and crackers alongside your dessert table; the creamy textures complement the sweetness of the bourbon balls.
• Chocolate-covered pretzels: These provide a fun sweet-and-salty contrast that enhances the overall dessert experience.
• Coffee or tea: Serving your Cherry Bourbon Balls with freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea adds warmth and rounds out the treat beautifully.

Enjoy making and sharing these delightful bites! They are sure to become a favorite at your gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cherry Bourbon Balls are fantastic for meal prep, making them an ideal treat to whip up ahead of time for parties or holiday gatherings. With a little planning, you can enjoy these delightful bites without the last-minute rush!

Storing Leftovers

• Store your Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last up to two weeks.

Freezing

• Place the uncoated Cherry Bourbon Balls on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months.
• When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator before coating with chocolate.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these treats, as they are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
• If they’ve been frozen, simply allow them to thaw before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Bourbon Balls:

Can I make Cherry Bourbon Balls without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can substitute bourbon with cherry juice or a non-alcoholic alternative like vanilla extract for flavor without the alcohol content.

How do I store Cherry Bourbon Balls?

Store your Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for up to two weeks to keep them fresh.

What can I use instead of maraschino cherries?

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using dried cherries or even fresh cherries that have been chopped finely. Both options will still deliver delicious flavor!

How long do Cherry Bourbon Balls last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to one week at room temperature and two weeks when refrigerated.

Can I freeze Cherry Bourbon Balls?

Yes! Freeze uncoated balls on a baking sheet and once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you’re inspired to make these delightful Cherry Bourbon Balls! They’re not only perfect for festive occasions but also bring a touch of sweetness and warmth any time of year. Enjoy crafting this recipe and sharing it with loved ones—it’s sure to be a hit! Happy baking!