Dessert

Christmas Cherry Balls Recipe

Bylina Carter November 24, 2025November 24, 2025

Introduction

Christmas Cherry Balls are a delightful holiday treat, combining sweet cherries and creamy white chocolate for a festive bite-sized dessert. These little balls feature a soft, flavorful center coated with a crisp white chocolate drip and a sparkling cherry sugar topping. Perfect for parties or a special seasonal indulgence.

A group of six round pink cake pops stand on a white rectangular tray on a white marbled surface, each with a red and white striped paper stick inserted on top. The top of each cake pop is covered with a glossy layer of white drizzle icing that flows down the sides unevenly. Crushed red candy pieces are sprinkled on top of the white drizzle, adding texture. A shiny, whole red cherry sits on top of each cake pop, firmly held by the striped stick. In the background, warm round bokeh lights create a festive and cozy atmosphere. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
3 cups powdered sugar

1 cup finely crushed vanilla wafer crumbs
½ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries (well-drained and patted dry)

3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice
1 tsp almond extract

Pink gel food coloring (optional)
1 ½ cups white chocolate chips or white melting wafers
2 tsp vegetable oil

½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries (patted dry very well)
Whole maraschino cherries (for decoration)

Mini striped straws or decorative sticks, cut in half

Instructions

Step 1: Make the cherry sugar topping by mixing granulated sugar and finely chopped maraschino cherries. Spread the mixture on a plate and let it air-dry for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes sandy and crisp.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, vanilla wafer crumbs, chopped cherries, cherry juice, and almond extract. Mix to form a thick dough. Add extra powdered sugar if the mixture is too soft. If desired, tint with pink gel food coloring.

Step 3: Roll the dough into smooth, golf ball-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for 20–25 minutes to firm up.
Step 4: Melt the white chocolate chips and vegetable oil together in the microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Dip the top of each chilled cherry ball into the melted white chocolate, allowing it to drip naturally. Immediately sprinkle the cherry sugar topping around the wet coating.

Step 6: Top each ball with a whole maraschino cherry and insert a mini striped straw or decorative stick before the coating sets.
Step 7: Allow the cherry balls to set for 20–30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes. Keep chilled until serving.

Tips & Variations

Ensure the maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the dough and topping.

For a stronger almond flavor, consider adding a few drops of almond extract along with the teaspoon.
Use white melting wafers instead of chocolate chips for easier melting and a smoother coating.
Decorate with festive sprinkles or edible glitter for an extra holiday touch.

Storage

Store the cherry balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat is not recommended as it may affect the texture and coating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of six round treats arranged on a white rectangular plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each treat has a pink smooth coating as the base layer, topped with white dripping icing layered evenly around the top edges. Sticky red syrup drips vertically down the sides beneath the icing. The upper edges of each treat are covered with coarse white sugar crystals, giving a rough textured look. At the very top, a shiny red cherry with a stem is placed centered, and a red and white striped paper straw is inserted behind each cherry, standing upright. The background is softly blurred with warm glowing light circles, adding a festive feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these cherry balls ahead of time?

Yes, Christmas Cherry Balls can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, or frozen for longer storage. Just keep them well covered to prevent drying out.

What if I can’t find maraschino cherries?

If maraschino cherries are unavailable, you can substitute with finely chopped candied cherries or fresh cherries, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly. Ensure fresh cherries are well drained to avoid excess moisture.