Description
Delightfully rich and indulgent Cherry Bourbon Balls combine the warmth of bourbon-soaked pecans and cherries with the smooth sweetness of powdered sugar and creamy chocolate. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion where a decadent no-bake dessert is desired.
Ingredients
Scale
Nut and Bourbon Mixture
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
Base Mixture
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Coating
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
- 30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
- Soak the Pecans: Combine the finely chopped pecans with bourbon in a bowl. Cover and let them soak for at least 1 hour or ideally overnight to absorb the bourbon flavor deeply.
- Prepare the Base: In a large bowl, place the softened butter. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Mix in Nuts and Cherries: Add the bourbon-soaked pecan mixture along with the finely chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and powdered sugar blend. Stir with a wooden spoon until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening or coconut oil. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure a smooth chocolate coating.
- Coat the Balls: Using two forks or toothpicks, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, thoroughly coating it. Place the coated balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
- Add the Cherry Topping: Immediately press a candied cherry half onto the top of each chocolate-coated ball for a festive finish.
- Set the Coating: Refrigerate the chocolate-covered bourbon balls until the chocolate is fully set, typically about 30 minutes.
Notes
- For best flavor, soak the pecans in bourbon overnight rather than just 1 hour.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with an equal amount of cherry juice or omit entirely.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer taste and smoother coating.
- Store finished bourbon balls in the refrigerator in an airtight container; they keep well for up to 2 weeks.
- To make shaping easier, slightly wet your hands before rolling the mixture into balls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Bourbon Ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
