Easy Cherry Bourbon Balls

Rich, chocolatey, and kissed with bourbon warmth, Easy Cherry Bourbon Balls are the ultimate no-bake treat for holidays, parties, and cozy evenings at home. With their soft truffle-like texture, bursts of sweet cherry, and subtle bourbon depth, these bite-sized desserts feel indulgent yet incredibly simple to make.

This recipe is especially loved because it requires no baking, minimal equipment, and just a handful of pantry ingredients. Everything comes together in one bowl, making it perfect for busy schedules, last-minute entertaining, or gifting during the holidays.

Cherry bourbon balls are a playful twist on the classic bourbon ball — adding fruitiness that balances the richness of chocolate and nuts. They’re sweet but not cloying, boozy without being overpowering, and dangerously easy to eat one after another.

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Why You’ll Love These Cherry Bourbon Balls

Bourbon balls have long been a Southern holiday staple, often appearing on cookie trays and gift boxes. This version modernizes the classic by adding chopped cherries, which bring moisture, color, and a bright contrast to the deep cocoa flavor.

The texture is soft and fudgy rather than crumbly, thanks to butter and finely crushed cookies. Powdered sugar on the outside adds a delicate sweetness and that unmistakable festive look.

They’re also endlessly customizable — adjust the bourbon level, switch the nuts, or coat them in chocolate for an extra-decadent finish.

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Ingredients

• Vanilla wafer crumbs
• Powdered sugar
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Finely chopped maraschino cherries
• Bourbon
• Unsalted butter
• Chopped pecans or walnuts
• Vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and chopped nuts.
2. Add finely chopped cherries and stir to distribute evenly.
3. Pour in melted butter, bourbon, and vanilla extract.
4. Mix until a thick, cohesive dough forms.
5. Roll mixture into bite-sized balls.
6. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
7. Chill until firm before serving.

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Texture & Flavor Notes

These cherry bourbon balls have a melt-in-your-mouth texture with tiny bits of nuts and cherry throughout. The cocoa adds richness without overpowering, while the bourbon delivers warmth and depth that lingers pleasantly.

The cherry flavor is subtle but noticeable — not artificial or syrupy — especially when the cherries are finely chopped and evenly distributed.

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Choosing the Right Bourbon

You don’t need an expensive bottle for this recipe. Choose a smooth, mid-range bourbon you enjoy drinking. Since it’s not cooked, the flavor remains prominent, so avoid anything too harsh or overly smoky.

If you prefer a milder version, reduce the bourbon slightly and replace with cherry juice.

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Serving Suggestions

• Add to holiday cookie trays
• Serve with coffee or hot cocoa
• Gift in decorative tins or boxes
• Pair with dark chocolate desserts
• Serve as a no-bake party dessert

They’re especially popular during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations.

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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make ahead: Up to 1 week in advance
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months
• Serving: Bring to room temperature before serving

The flavor deepens as they chill, making them even better the next day.

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Variations to Try

• Chocolate-Coated: Dip balls in melted chocolate instead of powdered sugar
• Extra Cherry: Add a tablespoon of cherry juice
• Nut-Free: Omit nuts entirely
• Rum or Whiskey: Swap bourbon for another spirit
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark cocoa powder for deeper flavor

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A Holiday Favorite with Southern Roots

Bourbon balls originated in the American South, where bourbon production is deeply rooted. Traditionally served during holidays, these treats represent warmth, celebration, and hospitality — everything a good dessert should convey.

The cherry addition gives this version a festive twist that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

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Why These Are Truly Foolproof

• No baking required
• One-bowl recipe
• Easy to roll and shape
• Adjustable alcohol level
• Perfect for gifting

Even beginners can make these with confidence.

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Final Thoughts

Easy Cherry Bourbon Balls are rich, festive, and irresistibly simple. With bold chocolate flavor, sweet cherry bites, and a smooth bourbon finish, they’re the kind of treat people ask for year after year.

Once you make them, they’ll become part of your holiday tradition.