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Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 145 reviews
  • Author: Mia
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 30 Bourbon Balls
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delicious Cherry Bourbon Balls are bite-sized treats combining finely chopped pecans soaked in bourbon, maraschino cherries, and powdered sugar, all coated in rich melted semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for festive occasions or as a decadent dessert, these no-bake confections offer a delightful balance of nutty, boozy, fruity, and chocolatey flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Nut Mixture

  • ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
  • ¼ cup bourbon
  • ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries

Main Mixture

  • 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

  1. Soak Pecans in Bourbon: Combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl, mixing well. Let this mixture sit for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, so the pecans can absorb the bourbon flavor deeply.
  2. Prepare Butter and Sugar Mixture: Place the softened butter in a large bowl. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until fully combined and smooth, creating a creamy base for the balls.
  3. Combine Mixtures: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and the finely chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until evenly distributed and fully incorporated.
  4. Shape the Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Place the balls on a tray, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and hold their shape.
  5. Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the chocolate from burning and ensure a smooth coating.
  6. Coat the Balls: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled bourbon ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  7. Add Cherry Garnish: Immediately press a candied cherry half gently on top of each chocolate-coated ball before the chocolate sets to give a festive, colorful touch.
  8. Set and Chill: Refrigerate the coated bourbon balls until the chocolate is fully set and firm, which may take about 30 minutes. Once set, they are ready to serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • For best flavor, soak the pecans in bourbon overnight.
  • Shortening or coconut oil helps to thin the chocolate for a smooth coating and quicker setting.
  • Keep the balls refrigerated until serving to maintain firmness.
  • These Bourbon Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • Can substitute bourbon with whiskey or rum if preferred.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ball (approx. 25g)
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Find it online: https://mealsbymia.com/cherry-bourbon-balls-recipe/