What are cherry bourbon balls?

Cherry bourbon balls are no-bake, bite-sized treats made with cherries, chocolate, crushed cookies, and bourbon. They are often coated in chocolate, cocoa, coconut, or nuts, creating a rich cherry bourbon truffle-style candy that’s popular during holidays and special occasions.

Can I make cherry bourbon balls without alcohol?

Yes, cherry bourbon balls no nuts and no alcohol versions are easy to make. Simply replace the bourbon with cherry juice, rum extract, or vanilla extract while keeping the same texture and flavor balance.

How long do cherry bourbon balls last?

Stored in an airtight container, cherry bourbon balls can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or several months in the freezer, making them ideal for make-ahead desserts and gifting.

Can I customize cherry bourbon balls?

Absolutely. You can make pecan bourbon balls, bourbon balls with coconut, or classic old fashioned cherry bourbon balls by changing the coating or mix-ins. These easy cherry bourbon balls adapt perfectly to your taste preferences.

Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe – Easy No-Bake Treat 2026

Name: Cherry Bourbon Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 24 balls
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries, drained; 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies; 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); 1/4 cup bourbon or cherry juice; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate, melted; 1 cup shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts

Description

Sweet, boozy, and bite-sized, these cherry bourbon balls are a holiday favorite. Made with cherries, chocolate, and a touch of bourbon, they can be coated in cocoa, coconut, or nuts for extra flavor and texture. Perfect for gifting, parties, or just treating yourself!

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for ~24 balls):

For the Filling:

1 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries (drained)
2 cups crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies
1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, can omit for no-nut version)
¼ cup bourbon (or cherry juice for non-alcoholic version)
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Coating:

1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate, melted
1 cup shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts for rolling

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine chopped cherries, crushed cookies, and nuts (if using).
Add bourbon (or cherry juice), sweetened condensed milk, and cocoa powder. Mix until well combined into a sticky dough.

Step 2: Shape the Balls

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls with your hands.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Coat the Balls

Melt chocolate in a microwave or double boiler.
Dip each chilled ball into melted chocolate using a fork, letting excess drip off.
Roll in coconut, cocoa, or nuts if desired.
Place back on parchment and let chocolate set.

Notes

Make Ahead: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer.
Booze-Free Version: Substitute bourbon with cherry juice or rum extract.
Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts and increase crushed cookies for texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Category: Dessert / Candy
Method: No-Bake / Rolled / Dipped
Cuisine: American