Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
Introduction
Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining the rich flavors of bourbon, pecans, and cherries, all wrapped in smooth chocolate. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet indulgence any time of year, these bite-sized confections are both elegant and easy to make.
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
- Step 1: Combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, place the softened butter. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until smooth.
- Step 3: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Step 4: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Step 5: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil together in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the chocolate from burning.
- Step 6: Using two forks or a toothpick, coat each chilled ball in the melted chocolate. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 7: Press a candied cherry half on top of each chocolate-covered ball to garnish.
- Step 8: Refrigerate the finished bourbon balls until the chocolate is set and firm.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, try substituting the pecans with crushed pretzels or using a seed-based crunch.
- Adjust the bourbon amount to your taste, but be cautious not to make the mixture too wet for shaping.
- Dark chocolate can be used instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
Storage
Store the cherry bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. These treats can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the fridge before eating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make cherry bourbon balls without alcohol?
Yes, you can omit the bourbon or replace it with cherry juice or flavored syrup for a non-alcoholic version, though the flavor will be less intense.
How can I tell when the chocolate coating is set?
The chocolate coating is set when it feels firm and no longer sticky to the touch, usually after about 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
PrintCherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining finely chopped pecans soaked in bourbon with maraschino cherries, butter, and powdered sugar, all coated in rich semi-sweet chocolate and topped with candied cherry halves. Perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet, boozy indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 30 balls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Nut and Bourbon Mixture
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
Base Mixture
- 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 pecans and bourbon in a bowl and let sit for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the nuts to absorb the bourbon flavor fully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Prepare Base Mixture: Place softened butter in a large bowl and gradually beat in powdered sugar using a hand-held electric mixer until creamy and smooth.
- Add Pecans and Cherries: Stir the bourbon-soaked pecans and finely chopped maraschino cherries into the butter and sugar mixture using a wooden spoon until everything is evenly combined.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Cover the balls with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to help them firm up and make coating easier.
- Melt Chocolate: In a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil together over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Coat Balls: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate mixture until fully coated. Place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
- Garnish: Press a candied cherry half on top of each chocolate-coated ball to add a decorative and flavorful finishing touch.
- Set and Chill: Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes, before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow pecans to soak overnight in bourbon.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with orange juice or cherry juice.
- Use good quality semi-sweet chocolate for a smooth, rich coating.
- Shortening or coconut oil helps in achieving a shiny and smoothly coated chocolate exterior.
- Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Keywords: Cherry Bourbon Balls, bourbon balls, bourbon desserts, no bake dessert, chocolate coated balls, holiday treats
