Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cherry Bourbon Balls are the ultimate combination of sweetness and spirit. The crushed cookie base gives them a satisfying texture, while the bourbon adds warmth and depth. They’re incredibly easy to make—no baking required—and can be customized with different liquors or coatings. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making them even more delicious after a day or two. Perfect for grown-up gatherings or special holiday spreads, they’re a festive favorite that never fails to impress.
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Cherry Bourbon Balls: A Decadent No-Bake Treat with a Grown-Up Twist
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 24 bourbon balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cherry Bourbon Balls are decadent, no-bake treats made with rich chocolate, chopped nuts, crushed cookies, and a splash of bourbon — all wrapped around a sweet maraschino cherry for an irresistible adult dessert bite.
Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers (about 60 wafers)
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tbsp corn syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Extra powdered sugar or cocoa, for rolling
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers, chopped nuts, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder.
- Stir in bourbon, corn syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until the mixture comes together like a thick dough.
- Take a small portion of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and flatten it in your hand. Place a maraschino cherry in the center and roll to fully encase it in the chocolate mixture.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture and cherries.
- Roll each bourbon ball in powdered sugar or cocoa for a finished coating.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavor intensifies as they sit.
Notes
- For a stronger flavor, let the bourbon balls rest for 24–48 hours before serving.
- Substitute bourbon with rum, whiskey, or cherry liqueur for variation.
- To make non-alcoholic, replace bourbon with cherry juice or vanilla extract mixed with water.
- Coat with melted chocolate instead of powdered sugar for a richer finish.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins (no bake)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Crushed Vanilla Wafers or Chocolate Wafers
The base of the recipe, adding a soft crunch and rich cookie flavor.
Powdered Sugar
Adds sweetness and helps bind the ingredients together.
Cocoa Powder
Gives the bourbon balls a deep, chocolatey richness that balances the sweetness.
Bourbon
The star ingredient—smooth, rich, and slightly smoky. Choose a bourbon you enjoy drinking, as its flavor shines through.
Chopped Maraschino Cherries
Add a pop of color, sweetness, and a little chew to each bite.
Corn Syrup or Honey
Acts as a binder and adds subtle shine and sweetness.
Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (optional)
For a nutty crunch that adds depth and texture.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate (optional for coating)
For an indulgent, glossy finish that turns these treats into truffle-like bites.
Powdered Sugar or Cocoa Powder (for rolling)
Used to coat the outside of the balls for a professional, finished look.
Directions
- Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine crushed wafers, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and nuts (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Stir in the chopped cherries, bourbon, and corn syrup (or honey). Mix until the mixture comes together and can be rolled into firm balls. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash more bourbon or syrup.
- Form the Balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form small, round balls.
- Coat or Dip:
- For a classic look, roll each ball in powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
- For a chocolate-coated version, melt semi-sweet chocolate and dip each ball, then place on parchment to set.
- Rest and Chill: Place the balls on a lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. For the best flavor, let them rest for 24 hours so the flavors can blend.
- Serve or Store: Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the balance of sweet, boozy, and chocolatey flavors.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24–30 bourbon balls and takes approximately 30 minutes total, plus chilling time of at least 1 hour.
Storage/reheating
Store Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months. The flavor improves after the first day as the bourbon mellows and infuses the cookies. Serve slightly chilled for the best texture.
Variations and Customizations
Dark Chocolate Bourbon Balls
Use dark cocoa powder and dip in melted dark chocolate for an intense flavor.
White Chocolate Cherry Balls
Dip the bourbon balls in melted white chocolate for a striking, sweet contrast.
Amaretto Cherry Balls
Substitute bourbon with amaretto for a nutty, almond-flavored twist.
Chocolate Bourbon Bliss
Add mini chocolate chips to the mixture for extra richness.
Nut-Free Version
Skip the nuts and add extra crushed wafers for a smooth, fudgy texture.
Coconut-Cherry Delight
Roll the finished balls in shredded coconut for added sweetness and texture.
Spiced Holiday Version
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive flavor.
Cherry Cordial Style
Wrap each ball around a whole maraschino cherry before rolling for a surprise center.
Maple Bourbon Upgrade
Replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
Booze-Free Version
Replace bourbon with cherry juice or vanilla extract for a family-friendly option.
FAQs
Can I make these without alcohol?
Yes—replace the bourbon with cherry juice or a mix of vanilla and almond extract.
How strong is the bourbon flavor?
The flavor is noticeable but not overpowering, and it mellows after a day.
Do I need to refrigerate them?
Yes, it keeps them firm and helps the flavors blend.
Can I use rum instead of bourbon?
Absolutely—rum adds a slightly sweeter, tropical note.
What’s the best cookie base?
Vanilla wafers create a mild flavor, while chocolate wafers make them richer.
Can I freeze these?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I coat them in something besides sugar?
Yes, try cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or melted chocolate.
How soon can I serve them?
They’re best after resting overnight to let the flavors meld.
Can I use dried cherries instead of maraschino?
Yes, just rehydrate them in a bit of bourbon before mixing.
Do they get you tipsy?
No, the alcohol content per ball is minimal, though they do retain a light bourbon flavor.
Conclusion
Cherry Bourbon Balls are the perfect combination of sweet, chocolatey, and spirited indulgence—no baking required. Their rich flavor, chewy texture, and hint of bourbon make them a sophisticated treat for holidays, parties, or anytime you want something special. Easy to make, elegant to serve, and even better the next day, these little gems prove that the best desserts don’t always need an oven—just a splash of good bourbon and a love for sweet simplicity.
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