As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a wonderland filled with sweet aromas and happy memories. One of my favorite traditions is making Cherry Bourbon Balls, a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate, nutty pecans, and a hint of tart cherry. It’s that particular moment when I crush the pecans and fold in the bourbon, releasing an enticing scent that wraps around me like a warm hug.
These delectable bites aren’t just a feast for the senses; they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for both seasoned chefs and those just starting their culinary adventures. Whether you’re bringing a dish to a potluck or looking for a special homemade gift, these Cherry Bourbon Balls are guaranteed to impress. Trust me, after one taste, everyone will be asking for the recipe! So let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on crafting these irresistible little indulgences.
Why are Cherry Bourbon Balls a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of bourbon, rich chocolate, and pecans creates a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist.
Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and minimal effort, you’ll have these sweet bites ready to chill in no time!
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings; everyone will rave about these homemade delights.
Unique Gift Option: Package them up as a thoughtful homemade gift that shows you care.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Sweet, chocolatey, and a little boozy, these Cherry Bourbon Balls are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters!
Cherry Bourbon Balls Ingredients
These Cherry Bourbon Balls come together quickly with just a handful of ingredients!
For the Filling
- Pecans – ¾ cup finely chopped; adds a rich, nutty crunch to each bite.
- Bourbon – ¼ cup; infuses a warm, comforting flavor that enhances the chocolate.
- Maraschino Cherries – ¼ cup finely chopped; offers a sweet and tart contrast to the other rich flavors.
- Butter – ½ cup softened; keeps the filling creamy and binds everything together.
For the Coating
- Powdered Sugar – 4 cups; adds sweetness and helps create the perfect texture for the filling.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – 3 cups; provides a decadent chocolate coating that makes these treats irresistible.
- Shortening or Coconut Oil – 2 tablespoons; helps achieve a smooth melting chocolate for coating.
For Garnish
- Candied Cherry Halves – 30; a delightful and colorful topping that makes each Cherry Bourbon Ball visually appealing.
How to Make Cherry Bourbon Balls
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Combine pecans and bourbon in a bowl and let sit for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you want a deeper flavor. This step is essential for allowing the bourbon to infuse into the pecans.
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Mix butter in a large bowl using a hand-held electric mixer. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 3-5 minutes for a fluffy texture.
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Add the pecan and cherry mixture to the bowl, stirring with a wooden spoon until evenly combined. This delightful combination will have a lovely texture and aroma!
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Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Once formed, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm them up for easier coating.
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Melt the chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently—this keeps the chocolate smooth and prevents burning. Aim for a glossy, velvety texture.
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Coat the chilled balls using 2 forks or a toothpick; gently roll them in the chocolate mixture. Place each one on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and press a candied cherry half on top. This adds a festive touch and burst of flavor!
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Refrigerate the coated Cherry Bourbon Balls until the chocolate is set, which usually takes about 30-60 minutes.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Bourbon Balls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can combine the pecans and bourbon and let them sit for up to 24 hours in advance, which deepens the flavor. Additionally, once you shape the mixture into balls, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to finish the recipe, simply melt the chocolate as instructed and coat the chilled balls before refrigerating again until set. By prepping ahead, you’ll save valuable time, making it even easier to delight your friends and family with these scrumptious treats!
Cherry Bourbon Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these delectable Cherry Bourbon Balls!
- Nut-Free: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative that still provides a delightful crunch.
- Bourbon Alternative: Swap bourbon for dark rum or a splash of maple syrup for a different flavor profile that’s still sweet and indulgent.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to create a dairy-free version everyone can enjoy.
- Coconut Twist: Replace maraschino cherries with dried coconut flakes for a tropical twist that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate coating for an unexpected spicy bite that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness.
- Flavor Infusion: Consider infusing the bourbon with orange zest beforehand for a zesty aromatic flavor that brightens each bite.
- Mini-Balls: Make bite-sized versions for a fun party treat! Just shape the mixture into smaller balls for easier snacking.
- Fruity Delight: Incorporate small pieces of dried cranberries or raisins into the filling for added sweetness and texture.
The possibilities are endless, so tailor these treats to your taste and enjoy every delicious variation!
Expert Tips for Cherry Bourbon Balls
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Infuse Flavor: Let pecans soak in bourbon for at least an hour or overnight. This extra time enhances the flavor of the Cherry Bourbon Balls significantly.
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Achieve the Right Consistency: When mixing butter and powdered sugar, take your time to beat until fluffy. This ensures a smooth, creamy filling that holds together well.
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Chill for Easy Handling: Don’t skip refrigerating the shaped balls for at least an hour. Chilling makes them easier to coat with chocolate, avoiding messy hands!
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Use Gentle Heat: When melting chocolate, keep the heat low and stir frequently to prevent burning. This step guarantees a silky-smooth coating that will impress everyone.
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Finishing Touch: For a festive look, press a candied cherry half onto each ball after coating. It adds a vibrant color and extra sweetness to your Cherry Bourbon Balls!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Bourbon Balls
Fridge: Store your Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The cool temperature helps maintain their rich flavors and texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the uncoated balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months!
Reheating: No need to reheat these treats! Simply take them out of the fridge or freezer and enjoy them chilled for the best experience.
Serving Tip: If you’ve frozen the balls, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving. This ensures they remain deliciously fresh!
What to Serve with Cherry Bourbon Balls?
As you prepare to share these delightful treats, consider rounding out your spread for an unforgettable gathering.
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Rich Chocolate Cake: The deep flavors of a chocolate cake will harmonize beautifully with the chocolate-covered bourbon balls, creating a decadent dessert display.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate, creating a delightful balance with each bite.
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Roasted Nut Medley: Offering a mix of roasted nuts elevates the snack experience, adding crunch and complementing the pecan flavor in the Cherry Bourbon Balls.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich coffee enhances the overall taste experience, making those sweet bites even more enjoyable and perfect for a cozy gathering.
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Cheese Platter: Include a variety of soft and hard cheeses that can provide a savory counterpart to the sweetness of the bourbon balls, creating a perfect balance.
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Festive Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits bring a burst of color and a refreshing note that cuts through the richness, making it a lovely addition to your dessert table.
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Minty Mojito: This refreshing cocktail balances well with the sweetness of the balls, and the mint adds a lovely touch, making it a great drink choice.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly pairs nicely with the desserts, enhancing the celebratory feel of the occasion while providing a light contrast to the rich flavors.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats mirror the flavors of the Cherry Bourbon Balls, offering a fun and romantic touch to your dessert table.
Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe FAQs
What type of pecans should I use for Cherry Bourbon Balls?
I recommend using fresh, unsalted pecans for the best flavor and texture. Look for pecans that are firm and free of dark spots or rancid smells. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also toast them slightly for an extra layer of flavor before chopping.
How long can I store Cherry Bourbon Balls in the fridge?
You can store your Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The cool temperature not only maintains their rich flavors but also keeps the chocolate coating firm. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I freeze Cherry Bourbon Balls, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the uncoated Cherry Bourbon Balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they’re not touching. Freeze them until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
What should I do if my chocolate coating is too thick?
If you find your chocolate coating is too thick and difficult to work with, just place it back on low heat and stir in a teaspoon of shortening or coconut oil until it reaches a smoother consistency. This will help the chocolate glide on easily for a perfect coating.
Are Cherry Bourbon Balls safe for pets and children?
While the Cherry Bourbon Balls are delicious for adults, it’s important to remember that they contain alcohol, which is not suitable for children or pets. If you’re making these for a gathering with kids around, consider making a non-alcoholic version by substituting the bourbon with vanilla extract for flavor, keeping the same delightful texture.
Can I make these Cherry Bourbon Balls gluten-free?
Yes! Cherry Bourbon Balls can easily be made gluten-free. Just ensure that you use powdered sugar and chocolate chips that are labeled gluten-free. Additionally, the recipe does not contain any traditional flour, so it’s naturally gluten-free as written!
Irresistible Cherry Bourbon Balls for the Perfect Sweet Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine pecans and bourbon in a bowl and let sit for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you want a deeper flavor.
- Mix butter in a large bowl using a hand-held electric mixer. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the pecan and cherry mixture to the bowl, stirring with a wooden spoon until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Melt the chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil in a medium saucepan over low heat.
- Coat the chilled balls using 2 forks or a toothpick and place each one on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate the coated Cherry Bourbon Balls until the chocolate is set, about 30-60 minutes.