Mouthwatering Cherry Caramel Extract Balls Everyone Will Love Recipe

Introduction

These Mouthwatering Cherry Caramel Extract Balls are a delightful treat combining rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and a hint of caramel flavor. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a fudgy texture and a beautiful presentation that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup finely chopped pecans (substitute with walnuts or omit for a nut-free version)
• 1/2 cup cherry juice (non-alcoholic) (use apple juice for a milder taste)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries (can be swapped with dried cherries for added chewiness)
• 1/2 cup butter (softened) (coconut oil is a great dairy-free substitute)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (reduce for a lighter touch if preferred)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (opt for dark chocolate for deeper flavor)
• 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil (butter can work for added richness)
• 12 pieces candied cherry halves (use chocolate shavings for a unique presentation)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening until smooth and glossy; let cool slightly to keep the butter mixture intact.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, creating a creamy base for your treats.
3. Step 3: Stir in the cherry juice, finely chopped maraschino cherries, and pecans, mixing well to combine all flavors.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the cooled chocolate mixture to the cherry mixture, stirring until a uniform, fudgy dough forms.
5. Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until the mixture firms up.
6. Step 6: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into smooth, bite-sized balls once chilled.
7. Step 7: Roll each ball in powdered sugar and top with a candied cherry half for decoration.
8. Step 8: Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined sheet and chill again for 30 minutes before serving or storing.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or replace them with extra cherries.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
• Try rolling the balls in finely crushed nuts or cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar for a different texture.
• Substitute coconut oil for butter to make the recipe dairy-free.

Storage

Store the cherry caramel extract balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months and thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat gently at room temperature if a softer texture is desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these balls ahead of time?

Yes, these treats can be prepared in advance and stored refrigerated or frozen as described. They actually benefit from resting, which helps the flavors meld together.

What can I use if I don’t have maraschino cherries?

You can substitute dried cherries or fresh chopped cherries, but keep in mind the texture and sweetness may vary slightly.

Mouthwatering Cherry Caramel Extract Balls Everyone Will Love Recipe

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Delight in these luscious Cherry Caramel Extract Balls, combining the rich flavors of semi-sweet chocolate, cherry juice, and crunchy pecans in a creamy, fudgy treat. Perfectly balanced with a dusting of powdered sugar and topped with a candied cherry half for an irresistible bite-sized dessert everyone will love.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Nut Mixture

• 1 cup finely chopped pecans (substitute with walnuts or omit for a nut-free version)

Cherry Component

• 1/2 cup cherry juice (non-alcoholic) (use apple juice for a milder taste)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries (can be swapped with dried cherries for added chewiness)

Base Mixture

• 1/2 cup butter (softened) (coconut oil is a great dairy-free substitute)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (reduce for a lighter touch if preferred)

Chocolate Coating

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (opt for dark chocolate for deeper flavor)
• 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil (butter can work for added richness)

Decoration

• 12 pieces candied cherry halves (use chocolate shavings for a unique presentation)

Instructions

1. Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening until smooth and glossy. Allow the mixture to cool slightly to prevent melting the butter mixture in the next step.
2. Prepare Creamy Base: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar vigorously until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy, forming a rich base for your dessert balls.
3. Combine Cherry and Nut Ingredients: Stir in the cherry juice, finely chopped maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the base mixture.
4. Add Chocolate Mixture: Gradually fold the cooled chocolate mixture into the cherry and nut mixture, stirring until a smooth, uniform dough with a fudgy texture is formed.
5. Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, allowing the mixture to firm up for easy shaping.
6. Shape Balls: Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into smooth, bite-sized balls using your hands for a perfect shape.
7. Coat and Decorate: Roll each ball in powdered sugar, coating it evenly for a sweet finish. Top each with a candied cherry half to add a charming and appetizing decorative touch.
8. Final Chill: Arrange the coated balls on a parchment-lined sheet and chill again in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set before serving or storing.

Notes

• For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with finely chopped walnuts.
• Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate to enhance the depth of flavor.
• Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter and shortening.
• Powdered sugar coating can be reduced or replaced with cocoa powder for a less sweet finish.
• Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Allow the balls to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor experience.

Keywords: cherry caramel balls, no bake cherry dessert, chocolate cherry treats, fudge balls, holiday sweets