Christmas Cherry Balls
Christmas Cherry Balls are a festive treat that brings a delightful blend of flavors and a pop of color to your holiday gatherings. These little bites of joy combine the sweetness of maraschino cherries with the creamy texture of condensed milk and a chewy coconut finish. They are not only delicious but also super easy to make! Perfect for holiday parties or as homemade gifts, these treats will surely impress your friends and family.
What You’ll Need for Christmas Cherry Balls
To whip up these tasty delights, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries, well-drained and patted dry
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Extra shredded coconut for rolling
- Optional: ½ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
How to Make Christmas Cherry Balls
Follow these simple steps to create your festive cherry treats:
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Prepare the Cherries: Begin by draining the maraschino cherries. It’s important to pat them completely dry using paper towels. This will prevent excess moisture in your balls.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sweetened shredded coconut, and condensed milk.
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Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture starts to come together. It should form a sticky dough.
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Fold in Cherries: Gently add in the chopped cherries and, if you’re using them, the chopped nuts. Carefully fold until everything is combined evenly.
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Shape the Balls: Using clean hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; they will still taste amazing.
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Coat with Coconut: Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut until they are fully covered. This adds a nice finishing touch!
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Chill: Place the coconut-covered balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate them for at least 2 hours. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to enjoy.
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Serve: Once firm, you can either enjoy them right away or store them in an airtight container for later.
The Best Way to Serve It
These Christmas Cherry Balls make a festive addition to any holiday platter! Arrange them on a pretty serving dish and sprinkle a bit of extra shredded coconut around for a snowy effect. Pair them with other treats like mini cupcakes or chocolate-covered pretzels for a delightful dessert table. They also make fantastic gifts in decorative boxes or bags, perfect for sharing joy during the holiday season.
Helpful Tricks for Christmas Cherry Balls
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your maraschino cherries are fresh to get the best flavor. Look for firm cherries with vibrant color.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap out the nuts based on your preference. Almonds or macadamia nuts work great too!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare these treats up to a week in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Christmas Cherry Balls FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but your bites will be less sweet. If you prefer a less sugary flavor, unsweetened coconut can be a great option!
How long can I store Christmas Cherry Balls?
These treats can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. Just make sure they are kept in an airtight container.
Can I freeze these treats?
Yes! They freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
These Christmas Cherry Balls are easy to make, fun to eat, and truly add cheer to the holiday season. Give them a try, and share the festive flavors with your loved ones! Happy Holidays!
Christmas Cherry Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 jar 10 oz maraschino cherries, well-drained and patted dry Ensure cherries are completely dry to prevent excess moisture.
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut Plus extra for rolling.
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts Optional, can be substituted with almonds or macadamia nuts.
Instructions
Preparation
- Drain the maraschino cherries and pat them completely dry using paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sweetened shredded coconut, and condensed milk.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture starts to come together, forming a sticky dough.
- Gently add in the chopped cherries and the chopped nuts (if using), folding everything together until evenly combined.
- Using clean hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut until fully covered.
- Place the coconut-covered balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Once firm, serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
