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Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

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3.9 from 287 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 30 servings

Description

Cherry Bourbon Balls are rich, boozy bite-sized treats made from chopped pecans, bourbon, maraschino cherries, and a buttery-sugar mixture, all coated in smooth semi-sweet chocolate and topped with a candied cherry half. Perfect for festive gatherings or as a delightful homemade gift, these no-bake confections combine nutty texture with a sweet, slightly spiked flavor.

Ingredients

Nut and Fruit Mixture

  • ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
  • ¼ cup bourbon
  • ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries

Base

  • 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

  1. Soak Pecans: 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 nuts to absorb the bourbon flavor.
  2. Prepare Butter Mixture: Place the softened butter in a large bowl. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture is creamy and well blended.
  3. Mix Ingredients: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and finely chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly combined.
  4. Form Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Place them on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
  5. Melt Chocolate: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure a smooth consistency.
  6. Coat and Decorate: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the coated balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press a candied cherry half on top of each ball for decoration.
  7. Set the Chocolate: Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate sets completely, about 30 minutes. Once set, they are ready to serve.

Notes

  • Allowing the pecans to soak overnight enhances the bourbon flavor significantly.
  • Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for best taste and smooth coating.
  • Shortening or coconut oil in the chocolate helps with smoother dipping and quicker chocolate setting.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator; consume within 1 week for optimal freshness.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with additional maraschino cherry juice or flavored syrup.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/cherry-bourbon-balls-recipe/