As the holiday season approaches, the excitement in the air is almost palpable. I felt it the moment I walked into my kitchen and decided to whip up something special—something that would bring both nostalgia and joy to our festive gatherings. Enter Christmas Cherry Bombs! These delightful little treats are a perfect blend of sweet and tart, wrapped in a creamy, indulgent layer that melts in your mouth.
Picture this: the crunch of graham crackers giving way to a luscious cream cheese and cherry filling, all coated in silky white chocolate and topped with crunchy pecans. It’s a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with the warm glow of holiday lights and festive laughter. Whether you’re creating magical moments at home or looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert to share, these Cherry Bombs are sure to spark joy and satisfy those sweet cravings. Plus, they’re easy to make! Join me as I guide you through crafting these charming bites that are bound to become a holiday favorite. Happy cooking!
Why are Christmas Cherry Bombs so irresistible?
Decadent Delight: The creamy mixture of cream cheese and cherry provides a rich flavor that dances on your palate.
Festive Presentation: Coated in white chocolate and sprinkled with crushed pecans, these treats are a visual feast perfect for holiday gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: With 24 servings packed into this recipe, there’s plenty to share with friends and family.
Quick and Easy: In just 40 minutes, you can create these joyful bites, making them ideal for last-minute holiday plans.
Versatile Treats: Whether served as a dessert or a festive snack, they fit in beautifully at any celebration.
Delight in the simplicity of crafting these festive bites, perfect for sweetening up your holiday gatherings!
Christmas Cherry Bombs Ingredients
Discover the secret to these festive delights!
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry – ensures a burst of tangy flavor in every bite.
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened – gives a luscious, creamy texture to the filling.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar – sweetens the mixture just enough for a delightful balance.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a hint of warmth and depth to the flavor.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips, melted – provides a silky coating that makes every cherry bomb irresistible.
- ½ cup crushed graham crackers – brings a crunchy contrast that enhances the texture beautifully.
- ¼ cup chopped pecans – adds a nutty crunch for extra flavor.
These Christmas Cherry Bombs are not only easy to make, but they also bring joy and sweetness to your holiday celebrations!
How to Make Christmas Cherry Bombs
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Mix Together: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious filling for your cherry bombs!
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Fold in Cherries: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, making sure to evenly distribute them throughout the mixture for delightful bursts of flavor in each bite.
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Shape & Chill: Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow them to set and firm up.
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Melt Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave or a double boiler, stirring occasionally until smooth and fully melted, and let it cool slightly.
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Dip Bombs: Dip each chilled cherry bomb into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it completely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before moving on to the next step.
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Roll & Place: Roll the chocolate-coated cherry bombs in the crushed graham crackers and chopped pecans, creating a delightful crunch around them, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Refrigerate Again: Return the chocolate-covered cherry bombs to the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set and firm to the touch.
Optional: Drizzle some extra melted chocolate on top for an elegant finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cherry Bombs
Fridge: Keep your Christmas Cherry Bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This preserves their freshness and flavor while keeping the chocolate intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your cherry bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Christmas Cherry Bombs, simply transfer them to the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This ensures a perfect texture when ready to eat.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these treats; enjoy them chilled for a refreshing bite of sweetness!
What to Serve with Christmas Cherry Bombs?
Create a memorable holiday spread that complements these delightful treats!
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Hot Cocoa Bar: A warm cup of cocoa topped with whipped cream offers a cozy pairing against the sweet, chilled cherry bombs.
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Sugar Cookies: Soft, buttery sugar cookies provide a lovely contrast in texture and allow guests to indulge in various holiday flavors.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider with hints of cinnamon and clove. It enhances the festive spirit and balances the sweetness.
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Pecan Pie: The rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie harmonize beautifully with the cherry bombs, making it a delightful dessert duo.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a crisp, refreshing element to your dessert table and creates a balanced meal. Bright berries and citrus play nicely with the cherry bombs’ sweetness.
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Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy option that pairs well with the crunch of the cherry bomb’s texture, delighting your taste buds.
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Holiday Punch: A sparkling holiday punch, colorful and bubbly, can elevate the experience. Its fruity notes make it a perfect match for the cherry-filled bites.
These pairings will transform your Christmas gathering into a sweet celebration!
Christmas Cherry Bombs Variations
Feel free to have fun and put your own twist on these delightful treats!
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based version that everyone can enjoy.
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Nut-Free: Substitute chopped pecans with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts, perfect for school-friendly snacks.
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Flavor Boost: Add a splash of almond extract to the cream cheese filling for an extra layer of aromatic goodness that will surprise your taste buds.
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Chili Chocolate: For a little heat, mix cayenne pepper into the melted chocolate before dipping each bomb, creating a spicy contrast to the sweetness.
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Fruit Fusion: Try using diced fresh strawberries or raspberries mixed in with the cherries for a vibrant fruity twist that dances on your palate.
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Crunchy Coating: Roll the bombs in crushed pretzels instead of graham crackers for a sweet-and-salty surprise that will have your guests coming back for more.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture to add a bright citrus note that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Experimenting with these variations not only makes the Christmas Cherry Bombs unique but also tailors them to your family’s preferences, ensuring delightful bites perfect for every occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Cherry Bombs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cream cheese and cherry filling up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. Additionally, once you shape the balls, they can be refrigerated for 15 minutes and then frozen for up to 3 days until you’re ready to dip them in chocolate. When you’re ready to serve, simply melt the white chocolate, dip the preformed cherry bombs, and roll them in the graham crackers and pecans. This method ensures that your chocolate coatings remain smooth and that the treats are just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Christmas Cherry Bombs
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Chill for Perfection: Make sure to refrigerate the shaped mixture adequately before dipping; this helps the cherry bombs hold their shape during coating.
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Choose Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips to ensure a smooth melt and a rich flavor that enhances your Christmas Cherry Bombs.
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Don’t Skip the Nuts: Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch, so don’t skip this step; they contrast wonderfully with the creamy interior.
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Watch the Melting: If using a microwave to melt chocolate, do so in short bursts to prevent burning; stirring frequently will ensure it remains smooth and creamy.
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Experiment with Dips: For a fun twist, try coating some of your cherry bombs in dark or milk chocolate for a varied taste experience that family and friends will love!
Christmas Cherry Bombs Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select maraschino cherries for this recipe?
When choosing maraschino cherries, look for those that are vibrantly colored, without any dark spots or blemishes. Freshly drained cherries that are free of excess syrup will ensure that your Christmas Cherry Bombs have the best flavor and texture.
How should I store Christmas Cherry Bombs?
Absolutely! Store your Christmas Cherry Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to place layers of parchment paper between them if stacking, to prevent sticking and to keep that delightful chocolate coating intact.
Can I freeze Christmas Cherry Bombs, and how do I do it?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Christmas Cherry Bombs, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer the bombs to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer them to the fridge for several hours to thaw.
What if my chocolate seizes while melting?
Very common! If your chocolate seizes up and becomes grainy while melting, it usually means it has been overheated or has come into contact with moisture. To fix it, try adding a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening and stir vigorously until smooth. Always melt chocolate in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently to prevent overheating.
Are there any dietary considerations for Christmas Cherry Bombs?
If you’re concerned about allergies, the primary ingredients include dairy and nuts. You can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version and skip the pecans or replace them with pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option. Always check labels for your specific dietary needs!
Irresistibly Sweet Christmas Cherry Bombs You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring even distribution.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave or a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each chilled cherry bomb into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
- Roll the chocolate-coated bombs in the crushed graham crackers and chopped pecans.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
