I’ve got to tell you about this **Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe** that’s been a holiday staple in my family for years. These little bites of boozy, chocolaty goodness have such a perfect balance of flavors—rich bourbon, sweet cherries, crunchy pecans, and silky chocolate—that they always disappear faster than I can say “more please!” If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that’s surprisingly easy to make, I promise you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. Stick around because I’m sharing all my go-to tips to make sure your Cherry Bourbon Balls turn out perfectly every single time.

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Why This Recipe Works

Perfect Flavor Balance: Tart maraschino cherries and smooth bourbon cut through the sweetness for a sophisticated taste.
Simple yet Decadent: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make it doable without sacrificing flavor.
Textural Contrast: Crunchy pecans mixed with creamy butter and melty chocolate make every bite an experience.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Needs chilling time but stores beautifully, perfect for planning ahead of a party.

Cherry Bourbon Balls, Bourbon Truffles, Cherry Chocolate Bites, Holiday Treats, Boozy Candy - The image shows eight small round chocolate balls placed on light brown parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each chocolate ball is topped with a shiny red cherry, some with stems attached, creating a bright red spot on the dark brown textured chocolate. Two extra shiny red cherries with long stems rest on the parchment paper near the chocolate balls. To the left, there is a small white bowl filled with more bright red cherries, and in the background, there is an out-of-focus Maker's Mark whiskey bottle on a wooden board, adding warm amber tones to the scene. The overall setting has a soft light blue cloth with white polka dots beneath the items, giving a fresh and inviting look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe plays a key role in flavor and texture harmony. When shopping, look for quality pecans and fresh-tasting maraschino cherries to really elevate the profile. Also, the bourbon you choose matters—it’s not just alcohol, it’s an essential flavor note.

Cherry Bourbon Balls, Bourbon Truffles, Cherry Chocolate Bites, Holiday Treats, Boozy Candy - Flat lay of finely chopped pecans in a simple white ceramic bowl, a small white bowl of amber bourbon, a small white bowl with finely chopped bright red maraschino cherries, a chunk of softened pale yellow butter on a white ceramic plate, powdered sugar mounded in a small white ceramic bowl, glossy semi-sweet chocolate chips spilling slightly in a white bowl, a small white bowl with smooth white coconut oil, and vibrant red candied cherry halves arranged neatly on a separate white ceramic dish, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Pecans: I prefer halves or larger pieces for that memorable crunch and nutty depth.
Bourbon: Use a good-quality bourbon you enjoy sipping since its flavor shines here.
Maraschino Cherries: Finely chopped—these add a fruity brightness and splash of color.
Butter: Softened to room temperature so it’s easy to blend without lumps.
Powdered Sugar: For that sweet, smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Choose decent chocolate—something with good cocoa content—to avoid overly sweet or waxy coating.
Shortening or Coconut Oil: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives the coating a nice sheen.
Candied Cherry Halves: For that classic garnish that adds charm and an extra cherry punch.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Depending on your mood or what you have on hand, you can swap, add, or adjust ingredients to suit your taste—or your guests’.

Variation: I sometimes swap pecans for toasted walnuts when I want a slightly earthier bite—it still works beautifully!
Dietary: Using coconut oil instead of shortening makes these dairy-free friendly, which I appreciate for friends with sensitivities.
Seasonal: In the holidays, I add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for festive warmth.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Step 1: Soak Pecans in Bourbon

Start by finely chopping your pecans and mixing them with the bourbon in a bowl. I always make sure to stir and then cover it tightly, letting it sit for at least an hour—or overnight if I can—to really let the bourbon soak in. This step infuses the nuts with that boozy warmth and makes the pecan flavor so much richer.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

While your pecans soak, beat the softened butter in a large bowl using a handheld electric mixer. Slowly add powdered sugar, mixing well until it’s light and fluffy. Getting this mix smooth ensures your bourbon balls won’t be gritty or dry.

Step 3: Combine Everything Into a Dough

Stir the bourbon-soaked pecans and finely chopped maraschino cherries into the butter-sugar mixture. A wooden spoon works great for this—just fold everything together until evenly combined. At this point, your mixture should be firm enough to shape but still pliable.

Step 4: Shape and Chill

Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls with your hands—it’s a little messy, but that’s part of the fun. Place them on a tray, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and pop them into the fridge for at least one hour. This chilling firm up makes them easier to coat with chocolate.

Step 5: Coat in Chocolate and Garnish

Melt your semi-sweet chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently so the chocolate doesn’t scorch. Then, using two forks or a toothpick, dip each bourbon ball into the melted chocolate coating, letting excess drip off before placing on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Top each one with a candied cherry half—this is my favorite part because it looks so festive!

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Refrigerate your chocolate-coated bourbon balls for about an hour, or until the chocolate hardens. After that, they’re ready to enjoy or store away for later.

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Pro Tips for Making Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Soak Longer for Deeper Flavor: I find that letting the pecans soak overnight really brings out that bourbon punch we’re after.
Softened Butter is Key: Don’t rush—room temp butter blends smoothly with sugar for the perfect dough texture.
Chocolate Coating Technique: Use two forks or a dipping tool to avoid getting your hands messy and get a nice even chocolate shell.
Don’t Skip the Refrigeration: Chilling your bourbon balls before and after coating helps them hold shape and makes handling easier.

How to Serve Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

Cherry Bourbon Balls, Bourbon Truffles, Cherry Chocolate Bites, Holiday Treats, Boozy Candy - The image shows a close-up view of a small dessert ball with three layers. The outside layer is dark, smooth, and shiny chocolate coating covering the entire ball. Inside, the second layer is light-colored, creamy, and soft with some small red and golden brown bits mixed inside, giving it a textured look. On top of the chocolate layer, there is a bright red, glossy half of a cherry placed in the center. The ball sits on a light brown surface with a white marbled texture softly blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love how the candied cherry halves on top not only add a splash of color but also a little extra chew and sweetness. Sometimes, I sprinkle a slight dusting of powdered sugar or even a touch of flaky sea salt on the chocolate for a flavor twist that surprises guests. It’s simple but makes these bourbon balls feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These bite-sized treats work wonderfully alongside a cheese platter or even a rich cup of coffee or spiced wine. If you’re hosting, pair them with some nutty biscotti or dark chocolate squares for a decadent dessert spread everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I like to stack them in a glass bowl on a bed of festive napkins or arrange them in mini cupcake liners on a pretty tray. You could also thread a few on cocktail picks for a fun, bite-friendly dessert option. Presentation can totally elevate this already impressive treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once chilled, store your Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they’ll keep fresh and delicious for up to two weeks. I usually separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these before by placing them on a tray to freeze individually, then transferring them to a sealed freezer bag. They hold up well for about 2 months. When you’re ready, just thaw in the fridge overnight to keep their shape and texture intact.

Reheating

Since these are chilled treats, I don’t recommend reheating. Just let them come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving so the chocolate softens slightly and the flavors open up beautifully.

FAQs

Can I make Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bourbon and replace it with an equal amount of cherry juice or even water. The flavor won’t be quite the same, but your bourbon balls will still be delicious and festive.
How long do Cherry Bourbon Balls last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to two weeks. Just make sure to keep them chilled to maintain texture and flavor.
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Certainly! Walnuts or almonds are great substitutes. Just chop them finely and soak in bourbon as directed. Each nut brings a slightly different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing when melting?

Low and slow heat is the key! Melt the chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil over the lowest heat setting and stir constantly. Avoid any water contact. This method keeps it smooth and glossy for dipping.
Can I prepare these ahead for a party?

Yes! They actually taste better after sitting a day or two because the flavors meld beautifully. Make them a day or two in advance and keep refrigerated until serving.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe is one of those delightful treats that makes you look like a pro without hours in the kitchen. Every time I bring a batch to a party, friends rave not only about their rich, complex flavor but also how elegant and homemade they look. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become your go-to for gift-giving, celebrations, or whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up with a little kick. Grab your mixing bowl and get ready—I’m excited for you to try them!

Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 6 reviews

Author: Julia
Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 30 bourbon balls
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these classic Cherry Bourbon Balls—bite-sized treats blending the rich flavors of bourbon-soaked pecans, sweet maraschino cherries, and a smooth chocolate coating. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as an elegant homemade gift.

Ingredients

Nut and Bourbon Mixture

3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup bourbon
1/4 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries

Base Mixture

1/2 cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar

Coating

3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
30 candied cherry halves

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Soak Pecans: Combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Prepare Base: Place the softened butter into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until smoothly combined and fluffy.
Combine Ingredients: Add the bourbon-soaked pecan mixture and finely chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and powdered sugar mixture. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until the mixture is evenly combined.
Shape Balls: Form the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands. Arrange the balls on a plate or tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Melt Chocolate Coating: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the chocolate from burning and ensure a smooth texture.
Coat and Garnish: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each bourbon ball into the melted chocolate mixture, coating it completely. Place the coated balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Press one candied cherry half onto the top of each ball gently.
Set and Chill: Refrigerate the coated bourbon balls until the chocolate is set, about 1 hour. Serve chilled.

Notes

Store bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they will keep fresh for up to 2 weeks.
For a different nut option, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with an equal amount of milk or almond extract.
Ensure the chocolate is melted gently and stirred constantly to avoid seizing or burning.
These treats can be made a few days in advance, making them ideal for holiday parties or gifting.
Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.