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Cherry Bourbon Balls

Cherry Bourbon Balls

Cherry Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat, perfect for holiday gatherings or as an indulgent homemade gift. This simple recipe combines classic flavors for a truly satisfying sweet.
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Course: Dessert

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers (about 36 wafers)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 1/4 cup bourbon (or more, to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries , drained and patted very dry
  • Additional N/A confectioners' sugar for rolling

Equipment

  • Medium Mixing Bowl
  • Plate or shallow bowl
  • Parchment-lined baking sheet
  • Mini muffin liners (optional)

Method
 

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, finely chopped pecans, unsweetened cocoa powder, and confectioners' sugar. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and free of any lumps. This forms the flavorful foundation of your Cherry Bourbon Balls.
    1 cup crushed vanilla wafers, 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
  2. Pour in the bourbon, light corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir these wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Begin by stirring with a spoon and then switch to your hands as the mixture thickens. You want to incorporate everything until it forms a cohesive, somewhat sticky dough-like consistency.
    1/4 cup bourbon, 2 tablespoons light corn syrup, 1 tablespoon butter, melted, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  3. Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Remember to pat your drained cherries very dry; excess moisture can affect the texture and stability of your bourbon balls.
    1/4 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
  4. Place a generous amount of additional confectioners' sugar onto a clean plate or shallow bowl. Scoop out about one tablespoon of the mixture at a time. Roll each portion between your palms to form a smooth ball, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
    Additional N/A confectioners' sugar
  5. Roll each formed ball in the additional confectioners' sugar until it is completely coated. Press gently to ensure the sugar adheres well. Place the coated balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into mini muffin liners.
    Additional N/A confectioners' sugar
  6. Once all the bourbon balls are shaped and coated, place the baking sheet or tray in the refrigerator. Allow them to chill for at least 30 minutes, or until firm to the touch. This chilling step helps them set and makes them easier to handle and serve.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. No reheating required.
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