Some recipes happen on purpose. These didn’t.

They started late one evening, when I wanted something sweet but absolutely did not want to turn on the oven. You know that mood—comfy clothes, quiet kitchen, zero patience for baking trays.

I had a jar of cherries open, a splash of bourbon left in the bottle, and chocolate that needed using. Not a plan. Just ingredients waiting to be noticed.

As soon as the bourbon hit the cherries, the smell changed everything. Deep, warm, slightly sweet. It felt festive without trying too hard.

I rolled the first one with my hands still a little sticky, thinking, “Okay… this might be dangerous.” Soft, rich, and just boozy enough to feel grown-up.

By the third bite, I knew this wasn’t just a treat. It was that dessert—the one people ask about and quietly hover near.

These no-bake cherry bourbon balls became a tradition almost immediately.

Recipe Resume – Quick Selling Points

No oven required
Bold cherry flavor
Warm bourbon depth
Perfect for holidays
Make-ahead friendly
Rich but bite-sized
Crowd-pleasing
Dangerously easy

Why This No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls Recipe Is The Only One You’ll Ever Need

The first batch disappeared faster than I expected. My husband pretended not to like bourbon desserts—until I caught him grabbing a fourth one “for later.”

This recipe sits squarely in American cuisine, with that cozy, holiday-dessert energy that feels nostalgic but a little mischievous.

They’ve shown up at cookie swaps, family dinners, and quiet nights when I needed something indulgent without effort. They never fail me.

What You Really Need to Make This Amazing No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls (Simplified)

Maraschino cherries (well drained)
Bourbon
Vanilla wafers or graham crackers (crumbled)
Powdered sugar
Cocoa powder
Chocolate chips (melted)
Butter
Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate sprinkles

How to Master the Perfect No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls (My Secret Method)

Start by chopping the cherries finely. Not mashed—just small enough to spread their flavor evenly. Pat them dry. This matters more than you think.

Mix the crumbs, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar in a big bowl. It should look a little messy already—that’s good.

Add the cherries, melted butter, bourbon, and just enough melted chocolate to bind everything together. Stir slowly. The mixture should feel soft but not sticky, rich but not wet.

Now comes the fun part. Roll gently, don’t press. Let them be rustic. Perfect spheres are overrated.

Chill them briefly, then roll again if needed and coat in chocolate, cocoa, or nuts. Back into the fridge they go, where they firm up into something magical.

Chef’s Notes and Tips For A Flawless No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls

Drain the cherries really well. Excess moisture is the fastest way to lose that perfect texture.

Taste as you go. Bourbon strength varies, and this recipe welcomes adjustment. You want warmth, not a burn.

Get Creative! Easy Substitutions and Fun Variations

Swap bourbon for rum or brandy.

Use dried cherries soaked in bourbon for deeper flavor.

Roll some in coconut for contrast.

Drizzle instead of fully dipping in chocolate for a lighter finish.

Lighten It Up! Simple Swaps for a Healthier No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls

Use dark chocolate with higher cocoa content.

Reduce powdered sugar slightly—the cherries still shine.

Try almond flour crumbs for a lower-carb option.

Make smaller balls. Flavor stays big.

Closing

And there you have it. No-bake cherry bourbon balls that feel indulgent, effortless, and just a little bit sneaky. Make a batch, hide a few for yourself, and don’t forget to tell us how they turned out. And while you’re here, be sure to check out some of our other Recipes—you might find your next favorite.

Are You Curious About Anything Else? Take a Look at the Most Frequently Asked Questions We Get About This Recipe:

Do no-bake cherry bourbon balls contain a lot of alcohol?

These cherry bourbon dessert balls contain bourbon, but the amount per serving is quite small. Since they’re bite-sized, each ball only delivers a subtle warmth rather than a strong alcohol punch.

If serving to a mixed crowd, you can reduce the bourbon slightly or allow the mixture to rest uncovered for a short time before chilling, which softens the intensity.

Can I make no-bake bourbon chocolate balls ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, these no-bake cherry bourbon balls taste better after resting. The flavors deepen as they chill.

They’re ideal for holiday prep, parties, or gifting because they hold their texture beautifully.

How long do cherry bourbon balls last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to one week refrigerated.

The texture remains firm, and the flavor continues to mature, making them perfect make-ahead treats.

Can I freeze this holiday bourbon balls recipe?

Yes. Freeze them before coating or after fully finished. Both work well.

Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.

What’s the best chocolate for coating bourbon balls?

Dark or semi-sweet chocolate balances the sweetness of the cherries and sugar best.

Avoid overly sweet milk chocolate unless you prefer a dessert-forward bite.

Are these no-bake cherry bourbon balls kid-friendly?

Because they contain alcohol, they’re best reserved for adults.

For a kid-friendly version, substitute bourbon with cherry juice or vanilla extract.

Why are my easy bourbon cherry balls too soft?

This usually means too much liquid or not enough dry crumbs.

Add more crushed wafers gradually and chill before rolling again.

Do these no-bake cherry bourbon balls need to stay refrigerated?

Yes. Chilling keeps them firm and safe, especially if chocolate-coated.

Serve slightly chilled or at cool room temperature for best flavor.