Description
Christmas Cherry Balls are a festive no-bake candy made with maraschino cherries, pecans, and semi-sweet chocolate. These buttery, bite-sized treats are easy to make, perfect for gifting, and guaranteed to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup apple juice or cherry juice
1/4 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
1/2 cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
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Combine chopped pecans and juice in a bowl and let soak for at least 1 hour or overnight.
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In a large bowl, beat softened butter with an electric mixer. Gradually mix in powdered sugar.
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Stir in the soaked pecans and chopped maraschino cherries. Mix until evenly combined.
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Roll mixture into 1-inch balls. Chill for 1 hour until firm.
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Melt chocolate chips and shortening (or coconut oil) in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often.
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Dip each ball into the melted chocolate and place on a parchment-lined tray.
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Top each with a candied cherry half.
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Refrigerate until the chocolate is set.
Notes
For deeper flavor, soak the pecans overnight.
Use high-quality chocolate for a smoother coating.
If the mixture is too soft to roll, chill for 15 minutes before shaping.
These are great make-ahead treats and perfect for gifting.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Additional Time: 1 hour (chilling)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 1g