Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining finely chopped pecans, bourbon, maraschino cherries, and a butter-sugar mixture, all coated in rich semi-sweet chocolate and topped with a candied cherry half. These chewy, boozy bite-sized confections are perfect for holiday parties or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes plus 1 hour soaking and 1 hour chilling
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (melting chocolate)
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes including chilling and soaking
- Yield: 30 bourbon balls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Nut and Bourbon Mixture
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
Butter and Sugar Mixture
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Coating
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
- 30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
- Soak Pecans in Bourbon: Combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Cover and let sit for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the nuts to absorb the bourbon flavor fully.
- Prepare Butter and Sugar Mixture: In a large bowl, place the softened butter. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix in Pecans and Cherries: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and finely chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and sugar mixture. Use a wooden spoon to stir everything thoroughly until the mixture is evenly combined.
- Form the Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place the balls on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Melt the Chocolate Coating: In a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure a smooth coating.
- Coat the Balls: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each bourbon ball into the melted chocolate mixture until fully coated. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Immediately press a candied cherry half onto the top of each ball.
- Set the Chocolate: Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate has fully set and hardened, which typically takes about 30 minutes.
Notes
- For stronger bourbon flavor, soak pecans overnight.
- Use shortening or coconut oil in the chocolate melt to create a smoother and shinier coating.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- These treats are perfect for holiday gifting – package them in decorative tins or boxes.
- To soften butter quickly, leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing.
Keywords: bourbon balls, bourbon dessert, holiday treats, chocolate coated balls, no bake dessert, pecans, maraschino cherries
Find it online: https://annakocht.com/cherry-bourbon-balls-recipe/
