Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s equal parts festive, boozy, and downright delicious, you’ve got to try my Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe. I absolutely love how these bite-sized treats combine the rich warmth of bourbon with the sweet pop of cherries and the crunch of pecans—all wrapped in smooth, glossy chocolate. Whether it’s for a holiday party or just a cozy night in with friends, these little gems are guaranteed to steal the show. Keep reading, and I’ll walk you through every step so you can nail this recipe on your first try!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients blend harmoniously to bring out the best in this dessert. Each one plays a role: from the bourbon-soaked pecans adding depth to the cherries popping with flavor, and of course, the silky chocolate coating that ties it all together. When shopping, look for good quality pecans and real bourbon—you’ll taste the difference.

• Finely chopped pecans: Toast them lightly if you want to amp up their nuttiness.
• Bourbon: Using your favorite brand helps personalize the flavor.
• Finely chopped maraschino cherries: Drain them well to avoid sogginess.
• Butter (softened): Bring it to room temperature for smoother mixing.
• Powdered sugar: Be sure to sift if it’s clumpy for an even texture.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These give the perfect balance—not too dark or sweet.
• Shortening or coconut oil: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and harden shiny.
• Candied cherry halves: For that classic festive finish and a little color pop.

Variations

I love making this Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe my own by tweaking a few things depending on the occasion or mood. Feel free to experiment—you’ll find that even small swaps can give the balls a whole new personality.

• Nut swaps: Once, I replaced pecans with toasted walnuts for a slightly earthier taste, and my family couldn’t get enough of the twist.
• Cherry variations: You can try dried tart cherries soaked in bourbon instead of maraschino for a less sweet but equally boozy bite.
• Chocolate types: Dark chocolate lends a more intense flavor, while milk chocolate offers a sweeter coating—choose your vibe.
• Flavor boosts: Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mix can add a subtle warmth that’s simply magical.

How to Make Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Nuts for Maximum Flavor

Start by combining the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. This little soak is key—it allows the nuts to absorb that lovely bourbon flavor and soften slightly. I usually let mine sit overnight in the fridge because it really intensifies the taste, but if you’re pressed for time, an hour does the trick too. Just make sure the pecans are well coated and set the bowl aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, add your softened butter. I like to cut it into chunks so it mixes evenly. Using a handheld electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar. You’ll want this to be nice and smooth, almost fluffy—that’s what gives the balls their richness without being greasy or too sweet. Resist the urge to add everything all at once; slow and steady wins the race here.

Step 3: Mix in Bourbon Pecans and Cherries

Now, fold in your bourbon-soaked pecans and the finely chopped maraschino cherries. Use a wooden spoon to stir until everything’s evenly mixed—you want little pockets of bourbon and cherry in every bite. If the mixture feels too sticky, a quick chill in the fridge will help before shaping.

Step 4: Shape and Chill

Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls—don’t worry if they’re not perfect spheres; rustic charm works here. Place them on a parchment-lined tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour. This firm chill step makes the balls easier to dip and keeps everything tidy.

Step 5: Dip in Melted Chocolate and Decorate

Gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat. Stir often so the chocolate melts smoothly without scorching. Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each ball in the chocolate, letting excess drip off before placing it back on the parchment paper. Top with a candied cherry half for that extra dash of festive flair. Chill once more until the chocolate hardens—patience here really pays off!

How to Serve Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Garnishes

I always top these bourbon balls with candied cherry halves because they look so festive and add a pretty pop of color. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little extra chopped pecan on top before the chocolate fully sets—this adds a little crunch and texture that guests love.

Side Dishes

These bourbon balls pair beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of red wine for adult gatherings. I also enjoy serving them alongside a cheeseboard or as part of a dessert platter with other bites like spiced nuts and truffles.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I like to place the cherry bourbon balls in decorative mini cupcake liners and arrange them on a tiered dessert tray. If it’s a gift, wrapping a dozen in cellophane with a rustic ribbon always gets rave reviews. You can even drizzle white chocolate for a festive look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they keep beautifully for up to two weeks. Because they’re chilled, the chocolate stays crisp and the flavors actually meld together more over time—bonus!

Freezing

Freezing works wonderfully for this recipe. I place the balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. They freeze well for up to three months, so I can make a big batch ahead of time for busy holidays.

Reheating

When I’m ready to enjoy frozen bourbon balls, I let them thaw in the fridge overnight. No reheating needed because they’re meant to be enjoyed chilled. Just bring them to room temperature for a few minutes if the chocolate feels too hard.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first made this Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe, I was surprised at how easy it was to create something that tasted so rich and indulgent. Now, it’s become my go-to for celebrations because it impresses without stressing me out in the kitchen. I genuinely think you’ll enjoy sharing these with your loved ones as much as I do. Give this recipe a try—you might just find a new holiday favorite right here!

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