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