Description

Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining finely chopped pecans soaked in bourbon, maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, and butter, all coated in rich semi-sweet chocolate and topped with a candied cherry half. Perfect for holiday celebrations or anytime you crave a boozy, chocolatey bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Nut and Bourbon Mixture

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
30 candied cherry halves

Instructions

Soak Pecans: Combine pecans and bourbon in a bowl and let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the nuts to absorb the bourbon.
Prepare Dough Base: Place softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Mix Ingredients: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and finely chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and powdered sugar mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a tray or plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour so they firm up.
Melt Chocolate: In a medium heavy-bottom saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure smooth melting.
Coat Balls: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate mixture, coating it thoroughly. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press a candied cherry half on top of each ball immediately.
Set and Serve: Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate is set and firm, approximately 30 minutes. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For stronger bourbon flavor, soak pecans overnight.
If you don’t have shortening, coconut oil works well to thin the chocolate.
These can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For a festive look, you can roll the formed balls in additional powdered sugar before chilling.

Prep Time: 10 minutes plus 1 hour soaking time
Cook Time: 10 minutes (chocolate melting and coating)
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Keywords: cherry bourbon balls, no-bake dessert, bourbon pecan balls, holiday treats, chocolate coated balls