Christmas Cherry Balls

These sweet, boozy little bites are the perfect holiday treat. A rich combination of maraschino cherries, coconut, and sweetened condensed milk, rolled into balls and dipped in chocolate. They're festive, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser!

📋 ingredients:

• 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips or white chocolate chips

• 2 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (for melting chocolate)

• Optional garnish: extra shredded coconut or sprinkles

🥣 directions:

prep the cherries

Drain the maraschino cherries and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Set aside.

make the coconut mixture

In a bowl, combine shredded coconut, chopped nuts (if using), powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well coated.

form the balls

Take a cherry and carefully roll it into a ball of the coconut mixture, gently pressing the coconut around the cherry to completely cover it. Repeat for all cherries.

chill

Place the coconut-covered cherry balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to firm up.

dip in chocolate

Melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil (or shortening) in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds.

Once melted and smooth, dip each cherry ball into the chocolate, covering it completely.

Place back on the parchment paper.

garnish & chill

Optional: sprinkle extra shredded coconut or festive sprinkles on top of the chocolate before it sets.

Refrigerate the chocolate-covered cherry balls for 30 minutes to set.

serve

Once the chocolate is firm, your Christmas Cherry Balls are ready to serve!

💡 tips: