If you have a craving for something sweet that bursts with nostalgic flavors, this Cherry Caramel Extract Balls Recipe is an absolute must-try. These delightful treats are packed with the rich buttery goodness of caramel, the lively tang of cherries, and the satisfying crunch of pecans, all wrapped in a silky chocolate coating. Perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself, this recipe combines simple ingredients into an irresistible bite-sized dessert that feels like a warm hug from your favorite childhood memories.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The pecans add a lovely crunch, cherry juice and maraschino cherries bring that unmistakable fruity brightness, while butter and powdered sugar create a creamy, sweet base. Finally, semi-sweet chocolate and shortening give the finishing touch of smooth richness.
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- ¼ cup cherry juice: Provides natural cherry essence, infusing the balls with fruity tartness without overpowering.
- ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries: Offers vibrant color and bursts of sweet cherry flavor in every bite.
- ½ cup butter, softened: Creates a creamy base that binds all ingredients together and adds richness.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the mixture while contributing a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Used for coating, lending a decadent chocolate shell with a slight bitterness that perfectly balances sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil: Ensures smooth, glossy melted chocolate and helps it set nicely on the balls.
- 30 candied cherry halves: Decorative and flavorful toppings that add a classic cherry finish.
How to Make Cherry Caramel Extract Balls Recipe
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
Start by combining the softened butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until the mixture is incredibly smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial because it forms the velvety foundation that binds everything together and ensures your balls won’t crumble.
Step 2: Add Cherry Flavor and Nuts
Next, pour in the cherry juice along with the finely chopped pecans and maraschino cherries. Stir everything together thoroughly until you have a luscious, evenly mixed dough. This is where the magic starts happening; the cherries bring that signature pop of flavor, and the pecans add crunch and depth.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into small, perfectly rounded balls. Place them carefully on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Try to make them uniform in size so they cook and set evenly.
Step 4: Chill to Set
Pop the tray into the refrigerator and let the balls chill for about 30 minutes. This allowed the butter to firm up, so the balls hold their shape perfectly when dipped in chocolate later.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
While your balls are chilling, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring frequently, until the chocolate is smooth and glossy. The shortening helps give the chocolate a beautiful shine and a nice snap once set.
Step 6: Dip Each Ball in Chocolate
Remove the chilled balls and, one by one, dip each into the melted chocolate, making sure they are fully coated. Use a fork or dipping tool to lift them out, gently tapping off any excess chocolate before returning them to the parchment paper.
Step 7: Add Cherry Toppings
Immediately top each coated ball with a candied cherry half. Press it just enough to secure it before the chocolate sets, creating a stunning and flavorful garnish that hints at what’s inside.
Step 8: Let the Chocolate Harden
Allow your beautiful cherry caramel extract balls to sit undisturbed at room temperature or in the fridge until the chocolate is completely hardened. Once set, these are ready to enjoy or gift.
How to Serve Cherry Caramel Extract Balls Recipe
Garnishes
While the candied cherry halves already add a lovely finishing touch, consider dusting a bit of finely chopped pecans or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top for an extra pop of texture and visual appeal. Adding a small drizzle of extra melted chocolate can also elevate the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
These treat-sized delights pair wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of chilled milk for dipping. For a more indulgent experience, serve them alongside vanilla ice cream or a bowl of fresh berries that echo the cherry flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the Cherry Caramel Extract Balls Recipe on a decorative platter lined with parchment or doilies. Wrapping each ball individually in colored foil or placing them in mini cupcake liners will make them feel extra special for parties or holiday gifts. You can even thread a few on a skewer to create fun “dessert kebabs” that are as charming as they are tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely because they’re so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh and ensure the chocolate coating stays firm while the interior remains wonderfully soft.
Freezing
You can freeze these balls for longer storage by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since these are best served chilled or at room temperature, avoid heating them. If you want the chocolate to soften slightly, just leave the balls at room temperature for 10-15 minutes — they’ll be perfect to bite into without losing their structure.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or pistachios make excellent alternatives and will add their own unique flavor and crunch to the recipe.
Is it necessary to use cherry juice or can I use another liquid?
Cherry juice is key for that authentic cherry flavor. If you don’t have it, a small amount of cherry extract mixed with water or a similar fruit juice can work, but it may slightly alter the final taste.
Can these balls be made vegan?
With some tweaks like using vegan butter, powdered sugar without bone char processing, and dairy-free chocolate, you can absolutely create a vegan version that’s just as delicious.
How long do these Cherry Caramel Extract Balls Recipe treats last?
Stored in the fridge, they stay fresh for about one week. Beyond that, texture and flavor might start to fade, so it’s best to enjoy them sooner rather than later.
Do I need to use shortening or can I just use coconut oil?
Either works well. Shortening helps the chocolate set with a firmer finish, but coconut oil provides a lovely flavor and can be used as a natural alternative.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about homemade sweets that capture the essence of classic flavors in unexpected ways, and this Cherry Caramel Extract Balls Recipe does exactly that. They are simple to make, irresistibly tasty, and perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do because these little bites are happiness wrapped in chocolate and cherries!
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Cherry Caramel Extract Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 30 balls
Description
These Cherry Caramel Extract Balls are delectable no-bake treats featuring a rich blend of butter, powdered sugar, pecans, and cherries, all enclosed in smooth semi-sweet chocolate and topped with candied cherries. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, these bite-sized delights offer a harmonious balance of nutty, fruity, and chocolaty flavors.
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup cherry juice (non-alcoholic)
- ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Coating
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
Topping
- 30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth, well-combined mixture free of lumps.
- Add Fruit and Nuts: Mix in the cherry juice, finely chopped pecans, and maraschino cherries thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Shape the Balls: Form the resulting mixture into small, uniform balls using your hands or a small scoop, then place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the balls for approximately 30 minutes to allow them to firm up and set, ensuring easier dipping later on.
- Melt Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening or coconut oil in short intervals, stirring regularly until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Dip the Balls: Take each chilled cherry ball and dip it fully into the melted chocolate, making sure the entire surface is coated for a delicious shell. Return them to the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Topping: While the chocolate is still wet, place a candied cherry half on top of each chocolate-coated ball to add a sweet and decorative finish.
- Allow Chocolate to Set: Let the chocolate-covered balls sit at room temperature until the coating hardens completely before serving to ensure neat presentation and optimal flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute shortening with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Chilling the balls before dipping helps prevent the chocolate from melting excessively.
- Store finished balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Use non-alcoholic cherry juice to keep the recipe family-friendly.
- For a crispier texture, toast the pecans lightly before chopping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
