My grandma’s Cherry Bourbon Balls were a holiday staple in our family for as long as I can remember. Every year, as soon as the first leaves started to turn, I’d get excited knowing that soon the house would be filled with the rich, boozy aroma of those delectable little treats. Grandma would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully rolling each ball by hand and coating them in powdered sugar. It was a true labor of love, and we all eagerly awaited the moment when we could sneak one (or a few) from the tin she kept them in.
I can still picture myself as a kid, trying my best to be patient as the Cherry Bourbon Balls cooled on the counter. The anticipation was almost too much to bear! But the moment I’d pop one in my mouth, the perfect blend of cherry, bourbon, and velvety chocolate would explode with flavor. It was like nothing else I’d ever tasted. Grandma’s Cherry Bourbon Balls were a treasured holiday tradition that brought our family together, and the memories of those special times will stay with me forever.
Why This Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cherry Bourbon Balls
What makes Grandma’s Cherry Bourbon Balls so incredible is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rich, fudgy chocolate coating gives way to a soft, boozy center that’s bursting with the sweet-tart taste of cherries. And the secret ingredient that takes these over the top? A healthy splash of smooth, oaky bourbon that adds just the right amount of warmth and complexity. It’s a flavor combination that’s truly irresistible.
But it’s not just the flavors that make these Cherry Bourbon Balls so special. Grandma’s technique for rolling and coating the balls ensures a beautifully consistent texture in every bite. The key is to chill the dough thoroughly before rolling, so it holds its shape perfectly. And the generous coating of powdered sugar not only adds a beautiful snowy white finish, but also creates a delightful contrast to the fudgy interior.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Dark chocolate: The rich, velvety chocolate coating is the perfect foil for the cherry and bourbon flavors.
- Maraschino cherries: Look for high-quality cherries packed in juice, not syrup, for the most vibrant flavor.
- Bourbon: Go for a smooth, premium bourbon to really let the flavor shine.
- Powdered sugar: This is the secret to that gorgeous snowy coating.
- Cream cheese: Just a touch of cream cheese helps bind the dough and keep the texture perfectly fudgy.
Step-by-Step Cherry Bourbon Balls Instructions
Preparing Your Cherry Bourbon Balls
These Cherry Bourbon Balls are surprisingly easy to make, and the hands-on prep time is just 30 minutes. You’ll need a few basic tools like a food processor, baking sheet, and wire cooling rack. Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, you’re ready to get started on creating these irresistible holiday treats.
1- Begin by pulsing the dark chocolate in a food processor until it’s finely chopped. Transfer the chocolate to a medium bowl.
2- Next, drain the maraschino cherries and chop them into small pieces. Add the chopped cherries to the bowl with the chocolate.
3- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy. Then stir in the bourbon until well combined.
4- Fold the cream cheese mixture into the chocolate-cherry mixture until everything is evenly distributed. The dough should be thick and fudgy.
5- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
6- Once chilled, roll the balls in powdered sugar until they’re completely coated. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Cherry Bourbon Balls is to chill the dough thoroughly before rolling and coating. This helps the balls hold their shape and gives you that signature fudgy texture. Avoid over-processing the chocolate, too, as you want some small chunks for texture.
Another pro tip is to use high-quality ingredients, especially the bourbon. Look for a smooth, premium brand that won’t overpower the other flavors. And when coating the balls in powdered sugar, be generous – you want that beautiful snowy white finish.
Serving and Storing Your Cherry Bourbon Balls
Perfect Pairings for Cherry Bourbon Balls
These Cherry Bourbon Balls are the ultimate holiday treat, but they’re also fantastic year-round. They make a wonderful addition to cookie platters and dessert tables, and they’re the perfect bite-sized indulgence to serve with coffee or after-dinner drinks.
For a festive pairing, try serving the Cherry Bourbon Balls alongside a rich, velvety hot chocolate or a glass of your favorite bourbon on the rocks. The contrasting temperatures and flavors are simply divine. You could also enjoy them with a cup of spiced chai or a glass of full-bodied red wine.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about these Cherry Bourbon Balls is that they keep beautifully. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can even freeze them for up to 3 months – just thaw at room temperature before serving.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before rolling and coating. Or you can roll and coat the balls, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring to an airtight container. That way, you can have a stash of these delectable treats ready to go whenever the mood strikes.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cherry Bourbon Balls
Creative Cherry Bourbon Balls Variations
While the classic Cherry Bourbon Balls are a holiday favorite, you can get creative with all sorts of fun variations. For a seasonal twist, try using spiced or cinnamon-infused bourbon, or swap in cranberries or orange zest for the cherries.
You can also experiment with different coatings, like finely chopped nuts, cocoa powder, or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate. And for a festive touch, you can roll the balls in crushed candy canes or edible glitter.
Making Cherry Bourbon Balls Diet-Friendly
To make these Cherry Bourbon Balls a little more diet-friendly, you can experiment with some simple substitutions. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies in place of the chocolate. And for a low-carb or keto-friendly option, swap the powdered sugar for a sugar-free confectioner’s sweetener.
You can also reduce the amount of bourbon and increase the cherry flavor by using cherry juice or extract instead. And for a vegan take, use dairy-free cream cheese and dark chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of liquor instead of bourbon?
A: Absolutely! While bourbon is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other spirits like rum, brandy, or even Irish whiskey. Just be sure to use a high-quality, smooth liquor that won’t overwhelm the other flavors.
Q: How far in advance can I make these Cherry Bourbon Balls?
A: These Cherry Bourbon Balls keep really well, so you can make them up to 2 weeks in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I substitute fresh cherries for the maraschino cherries?
A: Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cherries instead of maraschino. Just be sure to pit and chop them finely. You may need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to account for the extra moisture from the fresh fruit.
Q: How do I know when the Cherry Bourbon Balls are done?
A: The balls are ready when they’re firm to the touch and the powdered sugar coating is smooth and even. You can also do a quick taste test to ensure the chocolate is set and the bourbon flavor is just right.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer-term storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Cherry Bourbon Balls
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 18
Description
Indulge in these rich and flavorful Cherry Bourbon Balls, a perfect balance of sweet and boozy. Featuring a graham cracker crust, cherry-infused bourbon filling, and a delicate powdered sugar coating, these bite-sized treats are a decadent seasonal delight.
Ingredients
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 (15 oz) can pitted cherries, drained and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup bourbon
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
Instructions
1. 1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed.
2. 2. In a separate bowl, mix the chopped cherries and bourbon until fully incorporated.
3. 3. Scoop the cherry-bourbon mixture by the tablespoon and roll into small balls.
4. 4. Roll the balls in the 1/4 cup of powdered sugar until fully coated.
5. 5. Refrigerate the Cherry Bourbon Balls for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. 6. Dust with additional powdered sugar just before serving.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality bourbon and fresh or canned cherries. These balls can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 20
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These Cherry Bourbon Balls are a true holiday (and anytime!) indulgence that will have your family and friends coming back for more. With their rich, fudgy chocolate, boozy cherry center, and beautiful snowy coating, they’re a festive treat that’s sure to impress.
I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the same joy and nostalgia that I do every time I make Grandma’s beloved Cherry Bourbon Balls. Let me know in the comments how they turn out, and be sure to share a photo of your creations on social media! Enjoy!