Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe
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.
- 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
Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/cherry-bourbon-balls-recipe/
