There’s a moment in every holiday season when the scent of something truly special fills the kitchen—not just cinnamon or pine, but the rich, warm, and unmistakably grown-up aroma of bourbon mingling with dark chocolate and sweet cherries. That’s the magic of Cherry Bourbon Christmas Balls. More than just a no-bake treat, these decadent confections are a bite-sized celebration, a conversation starter on any dessert table, and a surprisingly simple way to gift a taste of holiday cheer.

Originating as a Southern delicacy, bourbon balls are a cherished holiday tradition, often passed down through generations. This recipe builds on that classic, weaving in the festive pop of maraschino cherries for a joyful twist that’s perfect for Christmas. The best part? There’s no oven required. With a simple mix of butter, nuts, and bourbon, a long chill, and a luxurious chocolate dip, you can create professional-looking candies that taste like they came from a boutique chocolatier.

As you shape each ball, you’re not just making a dessert; you’re crafting edible ornaments, perfect for packaging in small boxes as heartfelt homemade gifts. They’re the ultimate make-ahead treat, as their flavor only deepens and mellows over several days. So, pour yourself a small sip of the good stuff, and let’s create a new holiday tradition that’s sure to be requested year after year.

The Story Behind the Bite: Bourbon Balls & Holiday Cheer

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s appreciate the heritage of this treat. The classic bourbon ball is a point of pride in the American South, particularly in Kentucky, the heart of bourbon country. Traditionally made with crushed vanilla wafers or cake crumbs, nuts, bourbon, and powdered sugar, they are a beloved Christmas confection. The alcohol is not cooked off, giving them their signature, spirited kick, which is why they are typically considered an adults-only indulgence.

This recipe takes inspiration from that tradition but swaps the cookie crumbs for a wonderfully rich, fudgy, and butter-based filling, resulting in a smoother, truffle-like interior. The addition of maraschino cherries is a festive flourish, offering a sweet, juicy burst that cuts through the richness of the chocolate and bourbon. It’s a combination that feels both timeless and excitingly new—a perfect metaphor for the best kind of holiday gathering.

Ingredients

For the Bourbon Ball Filling:

¾ cup raw pecans, finely chopped
¼ cup quality bourbon (such as Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
¼ cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped and well-drained
30 candied cherry halves, for garnish

For the Chocolate Coating:

3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil (this helps the chocolate set with a smooth, snappy finish)

Ingredient Spotlight: Choosing Your Bourbon
You don’t need to use your most expensive bottle, but choose a bourbon you enjoy drinking. A smooth, medium-quality bourbon with caramel or vanilla notes works beautifully. Since the alcohol isn’t cooked off, its flavor profile shines through. Avoid anything overly harsh or high-proof, as it can overpower the other delicate flavors.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or wax paper
Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
Fork or dipping tool
Airtight container for storage

Instructions

Step 1: Infuse the Pecans
In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans and the bourbon. Stir to ensure all the nuts are coated. Let this mixture sit for at least 1 hour, or ideally, cover and let it rest overnight. This crucial step allows the pecans to fully absorb the bourbon’s flavor, ensuring every bite is infused with its warm, oaky notes.

Step 2: Create the Filling Dough

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter until it is light and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, about one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. The mixture will look very dry and crumbly at first—this is normal.
Add the bourbon-soaked pecans (with any remaining liquid) and the finely chopped maraschino cherries to the bowl.
Switch to a sturdy wooden spoon or use your hands to mix everything together. The warmth from your hands helps bring the dough together into a pliable, Play-Doh-like consistency. If the mixture seems too wet, you can add a little more powdered sugar; if too dry, a tiny splash more bourbon will help.

Step 3: Shape and Chill

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form a neat 1-inch ball. Place it on the prepared sheet.
Repeat with the remaining dough. Once all balls are formed, cover the tray loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until very firm. This chilling step is non-negotiable; it ensures the balls hold their shape during the chocolate-dipping process.

Step 4: Dip in Chocolate

About 15 minutes before the chilling time is up, melt the chocolate. Combine the chocolate chips and shortening (or coconut oil) in a heatproof bowl. Melt using a double boiler over simmering water, stirring until smooth, or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each burst.
Remove the balls from the refrigerator. Using a fork or a specialty dipping tool, spear a ball, dip it fully into the melted chocolate, and let the excess drip off.
Place the dipped ball back on the parchment-lined sheet. Immediately press a candied cherry half onto the top of each ball while the chocolate is still wet.
Repeat with all balls. If the chocolate begins to thicken, you can gently re-warm it.

Step 5: Set and Serve
Allow the chocolate coating to set completely at room temperature, or for faster setting, return the tray to the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Once set, arrange on a platter and serve. For the best flavor experience, let the balls come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bourbon Balls

Drain Those Cherries: Be meticulous about draining your chopped maraschino cherries. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess syrup. Extra liquid is the enemy of a firm dough.
Patience is a Flavor: These treats are good right away, but they are truly exceptional after 2-3 days. Stored in an airtight container, the bourbon flavor mellows and melds beautifully with the other ingredients, and the texture becomes even more sublime.
The Dipping Dance: For a perfectly smooth chocolate shell, tap the fork gently against the side of the bowl several times to shake off excess chocolate. A small, thin layer is better than a thick, gloppy one.
Kid-Friendly Version: You can easily make a non-alcoholic batch for all to enjoy. Simply substitute the bourbon with an equal amount of cherry juice, apple juice, or a teaspoon of rum extract mixed with water.

Serving & Gifting Suggestions

Cherry Bourbon Christmas Balls are incredibly versatile. Serve them as the grand finale on a dessert board alongside coffee and after-dinner liqueurs. They pair exceptionally well with a cup of strong black coffee, which complements their sweetness.

For gifting, they are a showstopper. Place 3-4 balls in small, festive cardboard boxes or clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. Add a custom tag that says “For Grown-Up Stockings Only!” They make thoughtful gifts for neighbors, hostesses, teachers, and coworkers.

Storage & FAQs

How long do they last?
Store completed Cherry Bourbon Balls in a single layer (or between layers of parchment paper) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different nut?
Absolutely. While pecans are classic, feel free to substitute with an equal amount of finely chopped walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

My dough is too soft to roll. What happened?
This is usually caused by under-drained cherries, butter that was too soft, or not enough powdered sugar. The fix is easy: just pop the mixing bowl into the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to firm up the butter, then try rolling again. You can also roll the balls with lightly powdered hands.

Creating these Cherry Bourbon Christmas Balls is more than a kitchen project; it’s an invitation to slow down and savor the season. The simple act of rolling each ball, dipping it in glossy chocolate, and crowning it with a bright cherry is a meditation in holiday preparation. When you finally place them on your table or hand them to a loved one, you’re sharing a piece of tradition, a dash of festivity, and a whole lot of delicious, boozy cheer.