No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls for Festive Celebrations

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 24 December 2025

In a cozy, bustling kitchen filled with laughter and the aroma of holiday spices, I stumbled upon a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of festive joy: Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls! With just a handful of ingredients, these charming confections blend the creamy richness of cream cheese with the tangy sweetness of dried cherries and a rich crunch from pecans—all sealed in a decadent chocolate coat. Not only are they unbelievably simple to whip up, but they also make for a beautiful crowd-pleaser at any gathering or a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Are you ready to dive into a recipe that promises to bring both nostalgia and merriment to your holiday season?

Why are No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls a must-try?

Simplicity: With minimal prep time and no oven required, you’ll have these delightful treats ready in a flash.

Irresistible Flavor: The harmony of creamy cheese, tangy cherries, and crunchy pecans creates a taste explosion that everyone will love!

Versatility: Whether you opt for bourbon, flavored extracts, or different chocolate coatings, you can easily customize them to fit your taste.

Perfect for Gifting: These festive treats make a lovely homemade gift, perfect for sharing joy during the holiday season; package them beautifully or serve on a dessert platter alongside Baby Shower Meatballs.

Crowd-Pleaser: Thanks to their rich flavor and appealing texture, these no-bake cherry bourbon balls are sure to be the highlight of any celebration!

No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls Ingredients

• The perfect combination of flavors awaits!

For the Filling

Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess and a rich buttery base; for a non-dairy version, use plant-based cream cheese.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and enhances the texture; can be omitted for a lighter version or replaced with vegan butter.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling and contributes to its smooth texture; adjust sweetness to taste as needed.
Dried Cherries – Offer tartness and chewiness to the filling; substitute with dried cranberries for a tarter flavor if desired.
Pecans – Provide crunch and nutty flavor; almonds or walnuts can also be used as a substitution.
Bourbon – Adds depth and warmth; replace with 1 tbsp milk + ½ tsp almond extract for a non-alcoholic option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; use pure extract for the best taste.

For the Coating

Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate – Forms the outer coating, contributing sweetness and richness; milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter variant.
Coconut Oil (optional) – Makes the chocolate coating smoother; omit if desired for a thicker layer of chocolate.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls

Step 1: Prepare Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually mix in 1 cup of powdered sugar until it reaches a thick consistency. Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped dried cherries, ½ cup of chopped pecans, 2 tablespoons of bourbon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until evenly combined.

Step 2: Chill Mixture
Transfer the filling mixture to an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap, then place it in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or the freezer for 20-30 minutes until firm. This chilling step is crucial as it helps the mixture hold its shape during rolling. Make sure the mixture is firm to the touch and slightly cooled to ensure easy handling.

Step 3: Shape Balls
Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to portion out the filling, rolling each portion into smooth balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed balls onto a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to avoid sticking. Chill them in the refrigerator for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the balls to firm up again before coating them in chocolate.

Step 4: Melt Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 8 ounces of semi-sweet or dark chocolate with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, if using. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each session, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, about 1-2 minutes total. Ensure it does not overheat, as burnt chocolate can become grainy and unusable.

Step 5: Coat Truffles
Once the chocolate is melted, dip a chilled cherry bourbon ball into the warm chocolate, rotating it gently until fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the coated ball back onto the lined baking sheet. For a decorative touch, garnish each ball with a whole cherry or a piece of dried cherry while the chocolate is still wet. Repeat this process until all the balls are coated.

Step 6: Set Chocolate
Let the coated cherry bourbon balls sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened completely. For quicker setting, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator. Once set, these no-bake cherry bourbon balls are ready to serve or can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

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 2 weeks. This ensures they remain fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If desired, allow frozen balls to thaw in the fridge for several hours or overnight before serving to restore their creamy texture.

Wrapping: Consider wrapping each ball individually in plastic wrap before freezing for easy access and to maintain their flavor.

What to Serve with Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls

Indulge in the spirit of the season by creating a delightful spread that perfectly complements these festive treats.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The warmth of a rich hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the creamy bourbon balls, enhancing the sweet experience. Top it with whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch!
Crunchy Sweet Potato Fries: The crisp texture and natural sweetness of sweet potato fries offer a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the chocolate coating. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra twist.
Festive Cheese Board: A selection of creamy cheeses, tangy dried fruits, and crunchy nuts will make for a wonderful sharing platter, balancing flavors that echo the bourbons’ sweet notes while inviting friends to mingle.
Spicy Mulled Wine: The rich spices and inviting warmth of mulled wine enhance the flavor profile of the cherry bourbon balls, making them a perfect winter pairing for gatherings.
Gingerbread Cookies: Add a nostalgic touch with some classic gingerbread cookies; their warm spices resonate beautifully with the festive flavors of the bourbon balls.

For drinks, consider a **Sparkling Cider”: its effervescence cleanses the palate, letting the bourbon balls shine with every bite while providing a refreshing finish.

Your holiday gathering will not only be memorable but utterly delightful when paired with these charming options!

No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls Variations

Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists and substitutions for your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls!

Boozy Twist: Replace bourbon with flavored liqueurs, like amaretto or rum, for an exciting flavor shift that tinkles the taste buds.
Nut-Free Option: Swap out the pecans for sunflower seeds or cocoa nibs to cater to those with nut allergies, ensuring everyone can enjoy them!
Chocolate Variety: Use white chocolate for coating if you’re after a sweeter, holiday-inspired touch. The contrast with the cherry filling is visually stunning!
Fruit Fusion: Mix in other dried fruits like apricots or raisins for added sweetness and chewiness, creating an unexpected fruity surprise.
Texture Boost: Incorporate crisped rice cereal for a delightful crunch in the filling, making each bite even more satisfying.
Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice note that elevates the seasonal charm.
Sugar-Free Choice: Utilize a sugar substitute like erythritol in the filling to cater to those watching their sugar intake, while still keeping it sweet and tasty.
Vegan Delight: For a vegan version, use a dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter substitute, so everyone can indulge during the holidays.

These variations can transform your festive treats into a memorable experience. And if you’re interested in more party-friendly options, check out the delicious ideas like Baby Shower Meatballs to complement your holiday festivities!

Expert Tips for No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls

Cream Cheese Softness: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a creamy texture in your filling.
Chill Well: Allow adequate chilling time between steps to help the mixture hold its shape when rolling. A firm mixture prevents sticky hands!
Chocolate Melting: Melt chocolate at lower temperatures and stir frequently. If it looks grainy, it may have overheated—keep an eye on it!
Rolling Technique: Use a small cookie scoop to portion and roll the balls to ensure consistent size and shape for even coating.
Storage Tips: Keep your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls in the refrigerator, as the cream cheese needs to be stored cold for freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, dried cherries, pecans, bourbon, and vanilla, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. Once you’re ready to serve, simply scoop the chilled filling into balls, chill again for 20 minutes, and coat them with melted chocolate. For optimal quality, store the finished bourbon balls in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. With this prep method, you’ll have delectable treats ready to impress your guests or indulge your sweet tooth, all without the last-minute rush!

No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best dried cherries for my No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls?
Absolutely! Look for dried cherries that are plump and have a rich, deep color. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as they might indicate over-drying or spoilage. If you’re looking for a tarter flavor, dried cranberries can be a great alternative!

What is the best way to store No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls?
Very! Store your No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they’re well sealed to maintain freshness, and enjoy them chilled for the best flavor and texture!

Can I freeze No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls?
Of course! To freeze, place the rolled balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, just thaw them in the fridge for a few hours.

What should I do if my chocolate coating is too thick?
If you find that your chocolate coating is too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil to the melted chocolate to smooth it out. This will help give you a more even and thinner coating as you dip each cherry bourbon ball. Stir well until fully combined for the best texture.

Are No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls suitable for people with nut allergies?
Great question! If you’re making these treats for someone with a nut allergy, simply substitute the pecans with seeds like sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. They can still be delicious without the nuts, so everyone can enjoy this festive dessert!

Can I make No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives and use vegan chocolate for coating. For the bourbon, you can substitute it with 1 tablespoon of milk (dairy or non-dairy) and ½ teaspoon of almond extract for that warm flavor without the alcohol. Enjoy experimenting!