Christmas Cherry Balls: A Festive Treat You Must Try!

The holiday season is a whirlwind of activities, from decorating the tree to finding the perfect gift for Grandma. But who says we can’t sprinkle a little culinary magic into our Christmas preparations? Today, I’m excited to share Christmas Cherry Balls, a delightful recipe that you can whip up in no time. These sweet, cherry-filled delights practically scream “joy,” and trust me, your family will be asking, “When can we make more?”

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cherry Balls Recipe

First off, let’s talk about how easy this recipe is. With a handful of ingredients and just a few simple steps, you can create a festive treat that will impress everyone at your holiday gathering. Plus, they have that satisfying crunch on the outside and a sweet burst of cherry flavor on the inside. Seriously, what’s not to love? Even if you’re juggling a million things—like shopping for your kids’ gifts or dealing with an endless laundry pile—this recipe will be your go-to holiday treat.

Ingredients for Christmas Cherry Balls

Here’s what you’ll need to create these little gems:

1 cup of finely chopped nuts (your choice!)
1/2 cup of sugar
1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
1 cup of maraschino cherries, drained and dried
1 teaspoon of almond extract
1 cup of shredded coconut, for rolling

Steps to Make Christmas Cherry Balls

Mix It Up: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, and almond extract. Use a fork to mix until it’s smooth and creamy.
Add the Nuts: Now it’s time for the fun part—add in your chopped nuts and mix until they’re well incorporated.
Get Cherry-licious: Take a cherry, wrap the cream cheese mixture around it, and roll it into a ball. Don’t be afraid to squish it on; just make sure the cherry is fully covered!
Coconut Coating: Roll each cherry ball in shredded coconut until it’s completely covered. This adds a festive flair that makes it sparkly and inviting.
Chill Out: Place the finished cherry balls on a plate and pop them into the fridge for at least an hour. Chilling will help them firm up.
Serve & Enjoy: Once chilled, these beautiful bites are ready to share with everyone (or devour yourself, I won’t judge)!

Cooking Tips for Christmas Cherry Balls

Nutty Options: You can mix up the nuts based on your taste. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a lovely twist. You do you!
No Coconut? No Problem: If coconut isn’t your thing, feel free to roll them in crushed graham crackers or even finely crushed cookies.

A Little Story from My Kitchen

Every holiday season, my sister Patricia and I make batches of these cherry balls. I fondly remember the year our dog, Daisy, managed to sneak one off the counter. Let’s just say she went on a sugar high that left us all giggling as she dashed around the house like a reindeer on a mission! This treat is not just delicious—it’s also wrapped in memories of laughter and family togetherness, making it even more special.

FAQs About Christmas Cherry Balls

Can I use fresh cherries instead?
While fresh cherries wouldn’t have that classic maraschino flavor, you can use them! Just make sure to pit and dry them thoroughly first.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any uneaten cherry balls in an airtight container in the fridge. They last for about a week, but they’re likely to disappear before then!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These treats can be made up to two days in advance. Just be sure to keep them chilled.

Let’s Make Some Christmas Cheer!

There you have it—Christmas Cherry Balls that are quick, easy, and provide a joyous burst of flavor. Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or a sweet late-night snack while wrapping gifts. So grab your apron, crank up some festive music, and let’s spread some holiday cheer in your kitchen.

If you’re curious about other festive treats, check out my post on Grandma’s Holiday Sugar Cookies for some classic cookie fun or venture into Easy Holiday Appetizers for savory options that pair beautifully with sweets.

Happy cooking, my friends! May your holidays be filled with delicious moments and sweet memories.

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Christmas Cherry Balls are the perfect festive treat for busy cooks. Quick, easy, and delicious, this recipe will be your holiday favorite. Try it today!