Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet show-stopping treat, you’ve got to try this Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe. Seriously, these little bites of boozy delight are packed with pecans, sweet cherries, and rich bourbon—then dipped in silky chocolate. I absolutely love how this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors, and once you make them, your friends and family will be begging for more.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together so well, blending nutty, boozy, and fruity elements with the creamy, sweet chocolate to make a perfectly balanced treat. When picking your cherries and pecans, go for quality — it really makes a difference.

• Pecans: Finely chopped pecans provide the perfect nutty crunch and texture.
• Bourbon: Adds warmth and depth; choose your favorite brand for best flavor.
• Maraschino Cherries: Finely chopped, these give the balls their classic sweet cherry kick.
• Butter: Softened butter blends everything smoothly and adds richness.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and binds the mixture for that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: For coating, giving a glossy, smooth finish with a nice bittersweet contrast.
• Shortening or Coconut Oil: Helps melt and thin the chocolate for easier dipping.
• Candied Cherry Halves: The classic garnish that makes these treats look as good as they taste.

Variations

One of the things I adore about this Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe is how easy it is to tweak depending on what you have or your mood. Feel free to get creative with textures and flavors!

• Nut substitutions: If you’re not a pecan fan, try walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Cherry variations: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cherries soaked in bourbon for an extra burst of flavor.
• Chocolate types: Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate depending on your sweetness preference.
• Alcohol-free: Replace bourbon with cherry juice or a splash of vanilla extract, perfect for kids or non-drinkers.

How to Make Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Step 1: Let Your Pecans Soak Up That Bourbon

This step is where the magic starts. Mix your chopped pecans with bourbon in a bowl and let it sit for at least an hour—or overnight if you can wait. This soaking boosts flavor, making every bite wonderfully boozy. I usually cover mine and pop it in the fridge; the pecans soften and soak up the bourbon, which makes the balls much more flavorful later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Powdered Sugar

In a large bowl, use your handheld electric mixer to beat the softened butter gradually with powdered sugar until fluffy. This creates the sweet, rich base your cherry bourbon balls need. Don’t rush this step — beating thoroughly ensures the balls won’t be dry or crumbly.

Step 3: Mix in the Pecans, Cherries, and Bourbon

Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and chopped maraschino cherries into your butter-sugar bowl. Stir well with a wooden spoon until everything is evenly combined. This mixture is thick and luscious—perfect for shaping.

Step 4: Shape the Balls and Chill

Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls—you can get about 30 out of this batch. Lay them on a parchment-lined tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour. This chilling firms them up so they hold together during chocolate dipping. If you find the mixture sticky, wetting your hands slightly can help.

Step 5: Coat in Melted Chocolate

Melt your chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. This thinning blend makes it easier to dip the balls smoothly without clumps. Using two forks or toothpicks, dip each chilled ball into the chocolate, then set them on parchment paper. Before the chocolate sets, press a candied cherry half on top for that signature look and extra cherry pop.

Step 6: Refrigerate Until Chocolate is Firm

Pop your finished bourbon balls back into the fridge until the chocolate is fully set, about an hour. After that, they’re ready to enjoy—or wrap up for gifting. I learned early on that skipping this step results in messy, melty fingers, so don’t skip it!

How to Serve Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a classic at heart, so candied cherry halves are my go-to garnish—they’re bright, pretty, and give each bite a pop of sweetness. Sometimes I sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top to contrast the sweetness and highlight the bourbon flavors. If you’re feeling festive, a little edible gold dust adds a sparkling touch that impresses guests.

Side Dishes

These cherry bourbon balls shine as stand-alone treats, but I love serving them alongside coffee or a rich, creamy cheese plate. They also pair beautifully with a glass of port or red wine if you want to keep with the adult beverage theme. For parties, toss them with mixed nuts and dark chocolate bark for a festive dessert platter.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I’ve arranged these cherry bourbon balls in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper and tied with a festive ribbon—always a crowd-pleaser as a gift. Another idea is placing them in mini paper cupcake liners sprinkled with finely chopped nuts or cocoa powder for added flair. They also make darling favors at weddings or parties when packaged individually in cellophane bags.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep my cherry bourbon balls in an airtight container in the fridge, where they last fabulously for about two weeks. This way, they retain their fresh taste and firm texture. I always store them in a single layer or with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Freezing is a great option, especially if you want to make a big batch ahead of time. Just flash freeze the balls on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They keep well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best texture.

Reheating

Since these treats are best enjoyed chilled, I don’t recommend reheating. Instead, just let them come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften the chocolate slightly and bring out the flavors.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe, I was blown away by how easy and delicious it was, and it quickly became a holiday staple in my kitchen. These little boozy bites are such a fun way to impress guests or treat yourself. Trust me, once you whip up a batch, you’ll be glad you did. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and share these festive delights with your favorite people—you’re going to nail it!

Print