Description
Delight in these Cherry Bourbon Balls, a luscious no-bake treat combining the rich flavors of bourbon-soaked pecans, maraschino cherries, and a smooth chocolate coating. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, these bite-sized confections offer a perfect balance of nutty crunch, fruity sweetness, and chocolaty decadence.
Ingredients
Scale
Nuts and Soaking Liquid
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup bourbon
Cherry Mixture
- 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
- 30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
- Soak Pecans: Combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl, stirring gently to coat the nuts evenly. Cover and let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight to allow the pecans to absorb the bourbon flavor fully.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: 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 well combined, creating a sweet and creamy base.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans along with any remaining liquid and the finely chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a thick, pliable dough.
- Shape Balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls onto a tray and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up for easier coating.
- Melt Chocolate: In a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure a smooth, glossy chocolate sauce.
- Coat the Balls: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled bourbon ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place the coated balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Immediately press a candied cherry half on top of each ball for garnish.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the chocolate-coated bourbon balls until the chocolate is firm and set, about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
- These bourbon balls will keep for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- For a stronger bourbon taste, soak the pecans overnight.
- Shortening or coconut oil helps thin the chocolate for easier coating and gives a smooth finish.
- Use a gentle hand when coating to preserve the shape of the balls and avoid excess chocolate drips.
