Holiday Cherry Balls: A Timeless No-Bake Christmas Classic
When the holiday season arrives, nothing captures the spirit of Christmas quite like Holiday Cherry Balls. These bite-sized, no-bake treats are rich, creamy, chocolatey, and bursting with festive flavor. Made with sweet maraschino cherries, smooth cream cheese, and a decadent chocolate coating, this classic holiday candy has been passed down through generations for a reason. It’s easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and always the first dessert to disappear from cookie trays and party platters.
Perfect for Christmas gatherings, homemade gift boxes, or cozy nights by the fire, Holiday Cherry Balls combine nostalgic charm with foolproof simplicity. If you’re searching for a holiday dessert that looks impressive yet requires minimal effort, this recipe is your answer.
Ingredients for Holiday Cherry Balls (And Why Each One Matters)
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Maraschino Cherries (with stems, well-drained)
These cherries are the heart of the recipe. Their bright color, sweet flavor, and soft texture create the perfect contrast to the creamy filling and chocolate coating. Drying them thoroughly ensures the candy sets properly. -
Cream Cheese (softened)
Cream cheese provides the smooth, tangy base that balances the sweetness of the cherries and chocolate. Softened cream cheese blends easily for a lump-free filling. -
Unsalted Butter (softened)
Butter adds richness and structure, helping the mixture hold together while delivering a melt-in-your-mouth texture. -
Powdered Sugar
This sweetens the mixture while keeping it silky smooth. Unlike granulated sugar, powdered sugar dissolves completely for a flawless filling. -
Vanilla Extract
A small amount of vanilla enhances every flavor in the recipe, adding warmth and depth. -
Sweetened Shredded Coconut
Coconut adds texture and subtle sweetness, making the filling sturdy enough to wrap around each cherry. -
Chocolate Melting Wafers or Chocolate Chips
These form the glossy outer shell. Choose high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and professional-looking finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Holiday Cherry Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial—excess moisture can prevent the candy coating from setting properly. Set the cherries aside on a clean towel.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until completely smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add the Coconut
Fold in the sweetened shredded coconut. The mixture should be soft but firm enough to mold around the cherries. If it feels too sticky, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes.
Step 4: Shape the Cherry Balls
Take a small amount of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cherry in the center and gently wrap the filling around it, sealing completely. Roll into a smooth ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining cherries.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate the shaped cherry balls for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps them firm up and makes dipping easier.
Step 6: Dip in Chocolate
Melt the chocolate wafers or chocolate chips according to package instructions. Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each cherry ball in chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place back on parchment paper.
Step 7: Set and Store
Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once set, store the cherry balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Why This Holiday Cherry Balls Recipe Is Loved
Holiday Cherry Balls are adored for their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy coconut filling, juicy cherry center, and crisp chocolate shell create a dessert that feels indulgent yet light. Best of all, this is a no-bake holiday recipe, making it ideal during the busy Christmas season.
They’re also incredibly versatile—easy to double for large gatherings and beautiful enough for gifting. One bite instantly brings back warm holiday memories.
Pro Tips for Perfect Holiday Cherry Balls
- Dry cherries thoroughly to prevent chocolate from slipping.
- Use room-temperature ingredients for the smoothest filling.
- Chill before dipping to keep the balls firm and neat.
- Choose quality chocolate for superior taste and shine.
- Add a drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant, festive finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Holiday Cherry Balls on a festive dessert platter alongside Christmas cookies, fudge, and truffles. They pair beautifully with hot cocoa, coffee, or a glass of holiday punch. For gifting, arrange them in decorative tins or boxes lined with parchment paper.
Final Thoughts: Simple, Festive, and Unforgettable
These Holiday Cherry Balls prove that the best holiday desserts don’t need to be complicated. With simple ingredients, no baking required, and show-stopping results, this recipe is a must-have for your Christmas traditions. Creamy, chocolatey, and irresistibly festive, they’re guaranteed to impress family, friends, and guests alike.
Make them once, and they’ll become a cherished part of your holiday season for years to come.