Introduction

These Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful treat combining rich chocolate, toasted pecans, and a splash of bourbon for an irresistible flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a special homemade sweet.

The image shows several chocolate-covered dessert balls arranged on light brown parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each ball has three layers: the outer layer is a smooth, shiny dark chocolate shell with a slightly uneven texture; inside is a creamy white filling mixed with small bits of red and light brown pieces; on top of each ball sits a glossy bright red cherry as the third visible layer. One ball in the front has a bite taken out, revealing the white mixed filling beneath the dark chocolate shell. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¾ cup finely chopped pecans
¼ cup bourbon
¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
½ cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
30 candied cherry halves

Instructions

Step 1: Combine finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: In a large bowl, place softened butter. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the bourbon-pecan mixture and chopped maraschino cherries to the bowl. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 4: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step 5: Melt the chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil together in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the chocolate from burning.
Step 6: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate to coat it fully. Place coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 7: Press a candied cherry half gently on top of each chocolate-coated ball. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier flavor, toast pecans lightly before chopping. You can substitute bourbon with brandy or rum for a different twist.
Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer bite, or milk chocolate for a sweeter version.
If coconut oil is unavailable, extra shortening or a neutral oil can work to keep the chocolate coating smooth.

Storage

Store cherry bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. These treats also freeze well; thaw overnight in the fridge.

How to Serve

Seven chocolate-covered balls are placed on light brown parchment paper on a white marbled surface, each topped with one shiny red cherry. The chocolate coating looks smooth but slightly uneven, and each ball is round with a glossy cherry sitting firmly on top. Two additional bright cherries with stems sit beside the balls on the parchment paper. In the background, a small white bowl filled with more bright red cherries with stems and a blurred bottle of Maker's Mark whisky can be seen on a wooden cutting board over the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bourbon balls ahead of time?

Yes, they keep well refrigerated for up to two weeks and can also be frozen for longer storage. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving.

Can I omit the alcohol?

Yes, you can omit the bourbon or replace it with an equal amount of cherry juice or a flavored syrup to keep the moisture and sweetness without alcohol.

Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 128 reviews

Indulge in these delightful Cherry Bourbon Balls, a rich and festive treat combining the warmth of bourbon-soaked pecans, sweet maraschino cherries, and a smooth chocolate coating. Perfect for holiday parties or gifting, these bite-sized confections blend creamy butter, powdered sugar, and semi-sweet chocolate for a luscious finish topped with vibrant candied cherry halves.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (plus soaking time)
Yield: 30 bourbon balls 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

¾ cup finely chopped pecans
¼ cup bourbon
¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
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 and allow the mixture to sit for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, so the pecans absorb the bourbon flavor deeply.
Prepare Butter Mixture: Place softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Gradually beat in powdered sugar using a hand-held electric mixer until well combined and creamy.
Combine Ingredients: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and finely chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until evenly mixed.
Shape Balls: Form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and make dipping easier.
Melt Chocolate Coating: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning and achieve a smooth consistency.
Coat and Garnish: Using two forks or a toothpick, carefully dip each bourbon ball into the melted chocolate, fully coating it. Place coated balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Immediately press a candied cherry half on top of each ball for garnish.

Notes

Allowing the pecans to soak overnight in bourbon enhances the flavor intensity.
For easier shaping, refrigerate the mixture well before forming balls.
Use shortening or coconut oil in the chocolate melt to create a smoother, shinier coating.
Store finished bourbon balls in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and firmness.
These make excellent homemade gifts; package in decorative tins or boxes.

Keywords: cherry bourbon balls, bourbon balls recipe, holiday treats, chocolate covered cherry balls, bourbon pecan dessert