The kitchen was alive with laughter and the enticing aroma of chocolate as I prepped a special festive treat for the season. This year, I’m excited to share my Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls, a delightful concoction that pairs the tartness of dried cherries with the warmth of bourbon, all wrapped in a luscious chocolate coating. Not only are these gems incredibly simple to whip up—perfect for those of us who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen—but they also make for a stunning gift or party centerpiece. The creamy filling and crunchy pecans create a mouthwatering contrast that’s hard to resist. Ready to indulge your sweet tooth? Let’s dive into this boozy treat and make your holidays even merrier!
Why are No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls irresistible?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for even the busiest of schedules.
Decadent flavor blend: The tartness of dried cherries perfectly complements the warmth of bourbon and richness of chocolate—such a delightful combo!
Versatile indulgence: Feel free to mix up the nuts or switch to an alcohol-free version; these bourbon balls can cater to everyone’s taste!
Impressive presentation: Their glossy chocolate coating and vibrant cherry filling create a stunning treat that’s sure to wow your guests—ideal for gifting!
Quick to prepare: Whip them together with ease, making them a go-to for last-minute celebrations or a sweet addition to any holiday gathering.
These delicious treats can also be paired alongside your favorite festive beverages, just like my Mini Banana Cream recipes do!
No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls Ingredients
For the Creamy Filling
• Cream Cheese – Provides a rich creaminess; can substitute with vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a luxurious texture; use coconut oil if you prefer a dairy-free treat.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling and stabilizes it; swapping for granulated sugar alters the texture.
• Dried Cherries – Offers a burst of fruity flavor; try dried cranberries for a slightly tart twist.
• Pecans – Imparts a delightful crunch; can be exchanged for almonds or walnuts to suit your taste.
• Bourbon – Gives a festive, boozy depth; substitute with 1 tbsp milk and ½ tsp almond extract for an alcohol-free version.
• Vanilla Extract – Boosts flavor and sweetness; imitation vanilla works in a pinch.
For the Chocolate Coating
• Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate – Adds a classic richness; milk chocolate offers a sweeter alternative.
• Coconut Oil (optional) – Makes the chocolate smoother for dipping; you can skip this for a simpler option.
For Garnish
• Whole or chopped dried cherries – A lovely touch on top; fresh cherries add flair but should be removed quickly if unused.
These No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls are a festive delight you won’t want to miss!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
Step 1: Mix Cream Cheese and Butter
In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is combined well, preparing a luscious base for your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls.
Step 2: Add Sweetener and Thicken
Gradually incorporate 2 cups of powdered sugar into the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed. Continue to blend until the sugar is fully integrated and the filling is thick and smooth, which should take about 2 minutes. This sweetened cream creates a delightful texture that will hold the flavors of your bourbon balls perfectly.
Step 3: Fold in Cherries and Nuts
Gently stir in 1 cup of chopped dried cherries and 1 cup of finely chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. Add 3 tablespoons of bourbon and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until combined. The bourbon will enhance the flavor of your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls, giving them that festive kick.
Step 4: Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour, or for a quicker option, pop it in the freezer for about 20-30 minutes. This chilling period allows the filling to firm up, making it easier to scoop and roll into balls, which is essential for the perfect texture.
Step 5: Shape the Balls
Once chilled, take the mixture out of the refrigerator. Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into smooth balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced for easy dipping later.
Step 6: Chill the Rolled Balls
Place the baking sheet of rolled balls back in the refrigerator for an additional 20 minutes. This step helps the balls retain their shape while you prepare the chocolate coating, ensuring that your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls have a clean and tidy outer layer.
Step 7: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 8 ounces of semi-sweet or dark chocolate with 1 tablespoon of optional coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, usually about 1-2 minutes total. Ensure the chocolate is not overheated, as this can affect the coating’s shine.
Step 8: Dip each Ball
Carefully dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork to ensure an even coating. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the coated balls back onto the parchment paper. This step is what gives your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls their decadent chocolate shell.
Step 9: Add Garnish
Before the chocolate sets, place a whole or chopped dried cherry on top of each ball for a decorative touch. This adds a pop of color and enhances the cherry flavor, making your treats visually appealing and festive.
Step 10: Let it Set
Allow the chocolate coating to harden at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can refrigerate them for faster setting. Once the chocolate is firm, your stunning No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls are ready to be enjoyed or gifted!
What to Serve with Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls?
Indulging in these delightful treats is only part of the experience; let’s create a beautiful festive spread to accompany them.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes bring a comforting texture, making them a delightful contrast to the rich cherry bourbon balls.
Hot Cocoa or Spiced Wine: A warm, chocolatey drink or spiced red wine complements the flavors beautifully, inviting a cozy feel during gatherings.
Cheese Platter: A selection of tangy cheeses—like goat cheese or brie—pairs well with the sweetness of the bourbon balls, offering creamy and rich dimensions.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds bright acidity, balancing the sweetness of the treats with a burst of freshness.
Nutty Green Salad: Tossed greens with candied pecans and a citrus vinaigrette provide a crunchy texture and a hint of zest, harmonizing perfectly with the bourbon balls.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream makes a luxurious pairing, enhancing the richness of the chocolate and the tartness of the cherries.
Coffee or Espresso: For a more classic pairing, serving freshly brewed coffee offers a robust flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of these festive treats.
Gingerbread Cookies: Traditional gingerbread cookies add warmth and spice, bringing an additional element of holiday nostalgia to your dessert table.
Expert Tips for No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
Chill First: Keep both the filling and rolled balls chilled to make rolling easier and achieving a smooth chocolate coating more successful.
Bourbon Balance: For a more pronounced bourbon flavor, you can increase the bourbon to 3 tablespoons but expect to adjust your chilling time since more liquid can soften the mixture.
Heat Control: Avoid overheating the chocolate while melting. Stir frequently and use short intervals in the microwave to prevent a dull coating on your no-bake cherry bourbon balls.
Texture Tips: If you want a crunchier texture, consider blending in crushed cookies into the filling or on the outside; this will elevate the indulgence!
Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to swap out pecans for your favorite nuts like almonds or walnuts, as these substitutions can alter the overall flavor and will still yield delicious no-bake cherry bourbon balls!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to get ahead during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the filling—mixing cream cheese, butter, dried cherries, pecans, bourbon, and vanilla—up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to finish the recipe, scoop and roll the mixture into balls, chill them for 20 minutes, and then dip in melted chocolate. This way, you’ll enjoy all the flavors and textures, just as delicious as when freshly made, saving you precious time for festive gatherings. Feel free to garnish them just before serving for a stunning presentation!
How to Store and Freeze No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls
Fridge: Keep your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This preserves their creamy texture and rich flavors beautifully.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncoated balls on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If you’ve frozen them, there’s no need to thaw before dipping in chocolate. Simply dip the frozen balls directly into the melted chocolate for a quick, easy treat.
Gifting: For gifting, store in decorative boxes or jars, and consume within 1-2 weeks for the best flavor and texture.
No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on these delectable no-bake cherry bourbon balls with these delightful substitutions and twists!
Alcohol-Free: Swap bourbon for 1 tablespoon of milk mixed with ½ teaspoon of almond extract for a kid-friendly version.
Nut Alternatives: Replace chopped pecans with almonds or walnuts to cater to different taste preferences. Each option brings its own nutty flair!
Dried Cherry Swaps: Use dried cranberries instead of cherries for a tart taste that pairs beautifully with chocolate. The slightly sour bite adds a delightful contrast.
White Chocolate Twist: Try coating the balls in white chocolate for a sweeter profile that’s simply irresistible. The creamy sweetness complements the tart cherries perfectly!
Cookie Crumbs: Mix crushed cookies into the filling for a crunchy texture contrast. Chocolate or vanilla wafers work great for this mouthwatering twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon to the filling for a surprising warmth that elevates the flavors. The balance of heat and sweetness is a fun surprise!
Mini Dessert Version: Create mini chocolate cups using the filling and a bit of melted chocolate as a base. These bite-sized wonders are perfect for parties!
Garnish Options: Instead of whole dried cherries, try using crushed pistachios or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a delightful visual and textural addition.
By experimenting with these variations, you can find the perfect fit for your taste buds, much like my delightful No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies that everyone loves! Explore these options, and enjoy the process of creating your own unique version of these festive treats!
No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting dried cherries?
Absolutely! When choosing dried cherries, look for ones that are plump and vibrant in color, ideally without dark spots or a hard, shriveled appearance. Avoid any that have a sticky texture or are excessively hard, as these may indicate they’ve been overly processed. If you’re feeling adventurous, dried cranberries can also be a fantastic substitute for a tart twist in your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls!
How do I store my No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls?
Very good question! To keep your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay delicious for up to one week. Remember, the cream cheese base needs to be kept cool, so don’t leave them out at room temperature for too long!
Can I freeze No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls, and how?
Yes, you definitely can! To freeze, first freeze the uncoated balls on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until firm. Once set, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, and they can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, dip the frozen balls directly into melted chocolate—no need to thaw!
What’s the best way to troubleshoot if my chocolate coating is dull?
If your chocolate coating turns out dull, it may be due to overheating. To achieve a shiny finish, melt your chocolate slowly—use a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each until fully melted and smooth. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil can also give your chocolate a glossy shine, so keep that tip handy!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Indeed! As these No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls contain cream cheese and butter, they are not vegan. However, you can easily make them dairy-free by using vegan cream cheese and coconut oil instead of butter. Always make sure to check for allergy concerns, especially with nuts; pecans can be swapped for almonds or walnuts based on preference!
No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls for Festive Gifting Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually incorporate 2 cups of powdered sugar into the cream cheese mixture, mixing until the sugar is fully integrated and the filling is thick.
- Gently stir in 1 cup of chopped dried cherries and 1 cup of finely chopped pecans, followed by 3 tablespoons of bourbon and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour, or freeze for about 20-30 minutes.
- Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into smooth balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for an additional 20 minutes.
- Melt 8 ounces of semi-sweet or dark chocolate with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off, and place back onto the parchment paper.
- Before the chocolate sets, add a whole or chopped dried cherry on top of each ball.
- Allow the chocolate coating to harden at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.