Introduction

These mouthwatering cherry caramel extract balls are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a rich blend of cherries, nuts, and chocolate, they offer a fudgy, sweet bite that everyone will love. They’re easy to make and impressive to serve.

The image shows a close-up of seven chocolate-covered coconut balls arranged on a white plate, set on a white marbled surface. Each ball has a rough, uneven dark brown chocolate coating and a bright red cherry on top. One ball in the front is cut in half, revealing a dense white coconut filling with small dark red pieces inside. The contrast between the shiny red cherry, the dark chocolate outer layer, and the white coconut inside is clear and vibrant, making the dessert look rich and inviting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup finely chopped pecans (substitute with walnuts or omit for a nut-free version)
1/2 cup cherry juice (non-alcoholic) (use apple juice for a milder taste)
1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries (can be swapped with dried cherries for added chewiness)
1/2 cup butter (softened) (coconut oil is a great dairy-free substitute)
1 cup powdered sugar (reduce for a lighter touch if preferred)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (opt for dark chocolate for deeper flavor)
2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil (butter can work for added richness)
12 pieces candied cherry halves (use chocolate shavings for a unique presentation)

Instructions

Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening until smooth and glossy. Allow the mixture to cool slightly to prevent melting the butter mixture in the next step.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar vigorously until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy, forming a rich base for your dessert balls.
Step 3: Stir in the cherry juice, finely chopped maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the base mixture.
Step 4: Gradually fold the cooled chocolate mixture into the cherry and nut mixture, stirring until a smooth, uniform dough with a fudgy texture is formed.
Step 5: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, allowing the mixture to firm up for easy shaping.
Step 6: Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into smooth, bite-sized balls using your hands for a perfect shape.
Step 7: Roll each ball in powdered sugar, coating it evenly for a sweet finish. Top each with a candied cherry half to add a charming and appetizing decorative touch.
Step 8: Arrange the coated balls on a parchment-lined sheet and chill again in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set before serving or storing.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and add extra maraschino or dried cherries for texture.
Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer chocolate flavor.
Substitute coconut oil for butter to make this recipe dairy-free.
Try rolling the balls in finely chopped nuts or coconut flakes instead of powdered sugar for a different coating.

Storage

Store the cherry caramel extract balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to one month, thawing in the fridge before serving. Reheat is not necessary as these are best served chilled.

How to Serve

The image shows several chocolate-covered round treats placed on a white plate. Each treat has a smooth, dark brown chocolate outer layer, topped with a shiny, bright red cherry. One of the treats is bitten open to reveal a crumbly, white coconut and cranberry chewy interior inside. The white plate rests on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these balls ahead of time?

Yes, these dessert balls can be made a day or two in advance and kept refrigerated to maintain their shape and freshness.

Can I use other types of nuts?

Absolutely. Walnuts work well as a substitute, and pecans can also be replaced with almonds or omitted for a nut-free version.