Description
Delight in these decadent Cherry Bourbon Balls, a luscious no-bake treat combining finely chopped pecans soaked in bourbon, sweet maraschino cherries, and rich semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for parties or gifting, these bite-sized confections are coated in smooth chocolate and topped with a candied cherry half for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Nut 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
Garnish
- 30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
- Soak Pecans: Combine finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pecans to absorb the bourbon.
- Prepare Base: In a large bowl, place softened butter. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until well combined and creamy.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the bourbon-soaked pecan mixture along with finely chopped maraschino cherries into the butter and powdered sugar base. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until the mixture is evenly mixed.
- Shape Balls: Form the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place the shaped balls on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to 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 the chocolate from burning, creating a smooth coating.
- Coat Balls: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate mixture until fully coated. Place coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Immediately press one candied cherry half on top of each ball to garnish.
- Set and Chill: Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate is set and firm, about 30 minutes. Once set, the Cherry Bourbon Balls are ready to serve or package.
Notes
- For a stronger bourbon flavor, increase soaking time or add a splash more bourbon when mixing.
- Substitute coconut oil for shortening for a dairy-free option.
- Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed pan to avoid scorching chocolate during melting.
- For a decorative touch, drizzle with white chocolate after coating.
