Christmas Cherry Balls
Sweet, coconut‑covered delights with a hidden cherry surprise — the ultimate holiday treat!
Introduction
Every holiday season deserves a recipe that’s easy, festive, and guaranteed to impress. These Christmas Cherry Balls are exactly that — bite‑sized confections made with butter, coconut, and a sweet maraschino cherry tucked inside. Rolled in graham cracker crumbs for a golden finish, they’re nostalgic, cheerful, and perfect for cookie trays or edible gifts.
Best of all, they’re no‑bake, meaning you can whip up a batch in minutes without turning on the oven. They freeze beautifully, making them ideal for preparing ahead of time during the busy holiday season.
Ingredients (Makes ~20 Cherry Balls)
½ cup softened butter
1 ½ cups icing sugar (confectioner’s sugar)
1 cup medium sweet shredded coconut (or flaked sweetened coconut)
Bottled maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry (cut in half if large)
½ cup graham wafer crumbs, for rolling
Step‑by‑Step Directions
Prepare Cherries: Drain maraschino cherries and pat dry with paper towels. If cherries are large, cut them in half.
Make Coconut Mixture: In a mixing bowl (or stand mixer with paddle attachment), combine softened butter, icing sugar, and shredded coconut until smooth and well blended.
Shape Balls: Using a small cookie scoop (about 1 tbsp), portion mixture into equal balls. Flatten slightly, place a cherry (or half) in the center, then shape mixture around it until fully covered.
Roll in Crumbs: Coat each ball in graham wafer crumbs for texture and flavor.
Chill or Freeze: Place finished cherry balls on a tray. Refrigerate until firm, or freeze for longer storage.
Serve: Arrange on a festive platter and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Dry cherries well to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the filling.
Use sweetened coconut for best flavor and texture.
Chill mixture briefly if too soft to shape.
Uniform size makes them look professional — a cookie scoop helps.
Variations
Chocolate Dip: Dip finished balls in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
Nutty Crunch: Roll in finely chopped pecans or walnuts instead of graham crumbs.
Festive Colors: Use red and green sprinkles for a holiday look.
Flavored Extracts: Add a drop of almond or rum extract to the coconut mixture for extra depth.
Serving Ideas
Present on a holiday dessert tray alongside cookies and fudge.
Package in tins or boxes for edible gifts.
Serve with hot cocoa or mulled wine for a cozy pairing.
Add to a cookie exchange for a unique no‑bake option.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Make‑Ahead: Prepare in advance and freeze — they taste just as fresh when thawed.
Storytelling Element
Imagine the sparkle of holiday lights, the scent of cinnamon in the air, and a tray of these cherry‑filled delights on the table. Guests bite into the sweet coconut shell, only to discover the juicy cherry surprise inside. It’s a recipe that feels festive, nostalgic, and joyfully simple — one you’ll want to make year after year.
Conclusion
These Christmas Cherry Balls are festive, easy, and endlessly adaptable. With their coconut‑butter filling, hidden cherry center, and graham crumb coating, they’re a holiday tradition worth keeping.