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Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
As I stand in my cozy kitchen, the sun streaming through the window, I think of all the happy occasions tied to the recipes I love to make. One of them brings me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter mingled with the smell of rich treats like the delightful Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls. Whenever she prepared them, the whole family came together, united by the sweet smell of chocolate and cherry. Those moments felt special, like a warm hug, and every bite was a reminder of love and family.
Now, I want to share this cheerful treat with you. In the hustle of everyday life, these no-bake cherry bourbon balls stand out. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also connect us to memories, joy, and comfort. Let’s dive into why you should whip these up today!
Why Make This Recipe
You might wonder why Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls are worth making. First, they deliver a burst of flavors: the sweetness of cherries, the richness of chocolate, and a slight kick from bourbon. The combination satisfies your sweet tooth and offers a unique taste that your friends and family will love.
Also, these delightful treats are incredibly simple. You do not need to turn on your oven, which saves you time and energy. Just mix, roll, and refrigerate. They make for a great party or holiday treat. Plus, you can quickly change up flavors and ingredients to match the season or occasion. When you serve these cherry bourbon balls, you will see smiles pop up all around. Nothing brings people together like a sweet, tasty treat!
These cherry bourbon balls also fit various settings. For example, they work well as a snack for game night, a treat for a family gathering, or even as a fun gift in a cute box. Many will enjoy the rich cherries and chocolate with a slight twist of bourbon.
Imagine how you will feel when you take that first bite. The smooth texture and sweet flavors blend perfectly. Each bite brings joy, filling your heart with warmth, just like those cherished memories in your grandmother’s kitchen.
How to Make Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup dried cherries
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 12 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine dried cherries, coconut oil, and 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar. Mix until well combined and the cherries are coated well with the sugar.
- Melt the chocolate in a microwave or double boiler. Stir in the vanilla extract, butter, cream cheese, and bourbon until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cherry mixture to the chocolate mixture, along with chopped pecans. Mix everything until it is well combined and forms a thick dough.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch wide. Roll each ball in the remaining powdered sugar to coat them completely.
- Refrigerate the balls for at least an hour before serving. This allows them to set properly.
How to Serve Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
Serving your Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls can be a delightful experience. Here are some ideas:
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Presentation: Arrange the cherry bourbon balls on a beautiful platter. You can add small decorative paper liners to create a charming look. A sprinkle of extra powdered sugar on top can also add a nice touch.
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Best Temperature: Serve these treats cold or at room temperature. When chilled, they have a firmer texture, making them easy to pick up.
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When to Serve: These balls work well for special occasions like holidays, birthdays, or casual get-togethers. You can even offer them during a movie night with friends or as a sweet reward after dinner.
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Pairing Ideas: They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. The richness of chocolate complements the bitterness of your drink, creating a lovely balance. You can also serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside, adding a creamy element to the dessert.
How to Store Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
Storing your Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls is simple. First, make sure they are completely cooled and set after refrigerating. Then, place them in an airtight container. These delightful bites can last in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the balls in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When stored correctly, they can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor.
Make sure always to check if they feel sticky or soft after thawing. If they do, a light dusting of powdered sugar can help them regain their lovely finish!
Tips to Make Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
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Dried Cherries: Soak the dried cherries in warm water or bourbon for a few minutes before mixing. This step enhances their flavor and makes them softer.
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Temperature Matters: Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature. This step ensures it mixes better with the other ingredients, creating a creamier texture.
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Mixing Techniques: Use a stand mixer for mixing the chocolate with the cream cheese. This method helps incorporate air, giving the balls a lighter texture.
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Preventing Sticking: Lightly grease your hands before rolling the mixture into balls. This step helps prevent sticking and makes the rolling process smoother.
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Pecans Preference: If pecans are not your favorite, substitute them with walnuts or almonds. This change can give your cherry bourbon balls a different yet delightful flavor.
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Bourbon Substitutes: For a non-alcoholic version, swap bourbon with a splash of vanilla extract or cherry juice. Your cherry bourbon balls will still taste fantastic!
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Storage Tips: Use glass containers for storing these treats, as they help keep the cherry bourbon balls fresh. A tight seal will protect them from absorbing odors from your fridge.
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Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop for uniform-sized balls. This ensures that they look nice and cook evenly if you decide to bake them.
Variation of Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
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Chocolate Mint Version: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the chocolate mixture. This addition creates a refreshing minty flavor, perfect for the holidays or gatherings.
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Spiced Version: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the chocolate mixture for a warm, spiced flavor. This twist makes the cherry bourbon balls feel more festive.
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Coconut Version: Roll the balls in shredded coconut instead of powdered sugar. This change adds a chewier texture and a tropical touch.
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Fruit Cocktail Version: Try using candied fruit mixed in with the cherries. Diced pineapple or chopped apricots can add a fruity explosion and brighten the flavor.
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Low-Sugar Option: Sweeten the mixture with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. This swap makes it a lovely treat for those watching their sugar intake.
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Nut-Free Version: Leave out the nuts altogether or replace them with a seed like sunflower seeds. This version works well for those with nut allergies while still being delicious.
FAQs of Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
How do I store my cherry bourbon balls?
You should store your Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to two weeks. Alternatively, you can freeze them for three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper when freezing.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Using fresh cherries is not recommended for this recipe. Dried cherries have a concentrated flavor and a texture that works well in the mixture. If you want to use fresh cherries, make sure to chop them finely and reduce the amount of liquid ingredients by a little.
Can I make these cherry bourbon balls without alcohol?
Absolutely! You can easily make a delicious version without bourbon. Substitute it with cherry juice or a little vanilla extract for added flavor. Your cherry bourbon balls will still taste great without the kick.
What can I serve with cherry bourbon balls?
Cherry bourbon balls pair well with coffee, tea, or even milk. You can also serve them with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. The combination of flavors enhances your overall dessert experience.
How long does it take to prepare cherry bourbon balls?
Preparing the Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls takes about 30 minutes. However, you need to refrigerate them for at least one hour to let them set, so be sure to plan ahead!
What common mistakes should I avoid while making these balls?
One mistake to avoid is overmixing the chocolate and cream cheese mixture, leading to a grainy texture. Also, ensure you let the chocolate cool slightly before mixing to prevent melting the cream cheese. Lastly, don’t skip chilling them; it’s crucial for shaping and texture!
Now that you have all the information and ideas, you are ready to create your own Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls. Enjoy the love and joy they bring to your table!
Print
Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful no-bake treat combining dried cherries, chocolate, and a hint of bourbon for a burst of flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3/4 cup dried cherries
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 12 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine dried cherries, coconut oil, and 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar. Mix until well combined and the cherries are coated well with the sugar.
- Melt the chocolate in a microwave or double boiler. Stir in the vanilla extract, butter, cream cheese, and bourbon until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cherry mixture to the chocolate mixture, along with chopped pecans. Mix everything until well combined and forms a thick dough.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch wide. Roll each ball in the remaining powdered sugar to coat them completely.
- Refrigerate the balls for at least an hour before serving to allow them to set properly.
Notes
For variation, you can add different extracts or toppings like shredded coconut or nuts as per your preference.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: no-bake dessert, cherry treats, bourbon balls, easy recipes, family desserts
