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Cherry Bourbon Balls

Irresistible Cherry Bourbon Balls: A Festive No-Bake Treat

Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat perfect for sharing during the holiday season.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 24 balls
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Softened
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter Softened
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 1 cup Dried Cherries Can substitute with dried cranberries
  • 1 cup Pecans Chopped, can use almonds or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup Bourbon Replace with milk and almond extract for no alcohol version
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Ensure it's pure
For the Coating
  • 12 oz Chocolate (Semi-Sweet/Dark) Use milk chocolate for sweeter option
  • 2 tbsp Coconut Oil or Shortening Optional for smoother chocolate consistency
For Garnishing
  • Whole or Dried Cherry For visual appeal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula
  • Parchment paper
  • Microwave or double boiler

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cream the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar while beating on low speed until fully incorporated, aiming for a thick creamy consistency. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. Gently fold in dried cherries, chopped pecans, bourbon, and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
  4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 1 hour, or in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes until firm enough to hold its shape.
  5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into smooth balls. Arrange on a parchment-lined tray, refrigerating again for 20 minutes if necessary.
  6. Melt semi-sweet or dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler until smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add coconut oil if using.
  7. Carefully dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate using a toothpick or fork, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
  8. Before the chocolate hardens, place a whole or dried cherry on top of each ball for garnish.
  9. Let the chocolate set at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes until fully hardened.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 25mgPotassium: 60mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These Cherry Bourbon Balls are perfect for holiday gatherings and store well in an airtight container for up to a week. You can freeze them for longer storage.

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