Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
Introduction
Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining the rich flavors of bourbon, pecans, cherries, and chocolate. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, these bite-sized sweets offer a luscious blend of textures and tastes.
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 preferably 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 and well combined.
- Step 3: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until everything is evenly mixed.
- 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: In a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening or coconut oil. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Step 6: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate mixture until fully coated. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and press a candied cherry half on top of each one.
- Step 7: Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate is set, then serve or store as desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a stronger bourbon flavor, increase the soaking time of pecans and bourbon to overnight.
- Substitute coconut oil for shortening to keep this recipe dairy-free.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet centers.
- Roll balls in extra chopped pecans before chocolate coating for added texture.
Storage
Store cherry bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Let thaw in the refrigerator before serving. To soften chocolate before serving, bring to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the bourbon with an equal amount of cherry juice or simply omit it, although the flavor will be less complex.
How long should I chill the balls before coating them?
Chilling the balls for at least one hour helps them firm up, making it easier to coat them with chocolate and preventing them from falling apart.
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Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes plus optional overnight soaking
- Yield: 30 bourbon balls 1x
Description
Delight in the rich and festive flavors of Cherry Bourbon Balls – a classic no-bake treat combining chopped pecans soaked in bourbon, sweet maraschino cherries, and a luscious coating of melted semi-sweet chocolate. Perfectly bite-sized and topped with candied cherry halves, these sweets are ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a boozy, nutty dessert.
Ingredients
Nuts and Fruit
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
Dough
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Coating
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
Decoration
- 30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
- Soak Pecans: Combine pecans and bourbon in a bowl and let them sit for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight to allow the nuts to absorb the bourbon’s flavor.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: Place softened butter in a large bowl and gradually beat in powdered sugar using a hand-held electric mixer, creating a smooth and creamy base.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the soaked pecan mixture and finely chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into approximately 1-inch balls. Arrange them on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Melt Chocolate: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning and achieve a smooth consistency.
- Coat Balls: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place the coated balls onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and gently press a candied cherry half on top of each.
- Set the Coating: Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate is fully set, approximately 30 minutes or until firm. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Allowing pecans to soak overnight intensifies the bourbon flavor for a richer taste.
- Substitute shortening with coconut oil for a slightly different flavor and a dairy-free option.
- Be careful not to burn the chocolate when melting by using low heat and constant stirring.
- Store the bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they will keep well for up to two weeks.
- For a festive variation, try using colored sprinkles instead of candied cherries for decoration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes plus 1 hour soaking
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: bourbon balls, holiday treats, no-bake desserts, chocolate covered cherries, festive sweets, nutty desserts
