If the holiday season had a flavor, it would taste exactly like these Christmas Cherry Bombs — sweet, creamy, a little tangy, and utterly joyful. Picture juicy maraschino cherries wrapped in smooth cream cheese, cloaked in silky white chocolate, and rolled in a crunchy mix of graham crackers and pecans. Each bite bursts with cheer — a combination of creamy, crunchy, nutty, and fruity textures that feel like Christmas in your mouth.
These no-bake delights are as easy to make as they are beautiful to serve. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner, bringing dessert to a holiday party, or simply indulging in some late-night Christmas magic, these little treats are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
They’re elegant enough for the dessert table, playful enough for the kids, and simple enough for even beginner bakers. All you need are a few pantry staples and a dash of holiday spirit.
The Magic of Christmas Cherry Bombs
There’s something truly special about holiday desserts — they’re more than just sweet treats. They’re little bites of nostalgia, joy, and comfort. And Christmas Cherry Bombs fit that description perfectly.
Imagine a glossy red cherry at the heart of each treat, representing all the sparkle and warmth of the season. Surrounding it is a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese — smooth, velvety, and rich. Then comes the luscious coating of melted white chocolate, like a snowy blanket, finished with a festive dusting of graham cracker crumbs and chopped pecans for that irresistible crunch.
The first bite is soft and creamy, the second is crunchy and nutty, and by the third, you’re already thinking about your next one. They’re simple to make, yet elegant enough to impress guests — a true win for holiday hosts.
No baking, no stress — just mixing, dipping, and chilling. The result? A plate full of beautiful, bite-sized snowballs crowned with cherries that gleam like ornaments on a Christmas tree.
Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a cookie exchange, or to gift in a festive tin, these cherry bombs will make everyone’s face light up. They’re the kind of treat that says, “I care,” without requiring hours in the kitchen.
It’s holiday joy, rolled into one perfect little sphere.
Why You’ll Love This Festive Treat
You’re going to fall head over heels for these Christmas Cherry Bombs — and here’s why:
- No Baking Required
Skip the oven! This is a completely no-bake recipe, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules. You’ll still get that rich, homemade flavor without ever turning on the stove. - Festive and Gorgeous
The red cherries and white chocolate give these treats an instant Christmas charm. Add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or edible glitter, and you’ve got a dessert worthy of Santa’s workshop. - Quick and Simple
From start to finish, you can have these ready in under 90 minutes (including chilling). It’s the ideal last-minute treat for guests or parties. - Perfect Flavor Balance
The tang of cream cheese, the sweetness of cherries, the smooth white chocolate, and the nutty crunch create a perfect harmony — not too sweet, not too heavy. - Kid-Friendly Fun
Little hands will love helping to dip and decorate these cherry bombs. It’s a great holiday kitchen activity for the whole family. - Make-Ahead Friendly
These keep beautifully in the fridge or freezer, so you can prepare them days ahead of your event. - Crowd Pleaser
They’re bite-sized, mess-free, and universally loved. Serve them at parties, give them as edible gifts, or use them as a fancy dessert garnish.
Every year, there’s that one treat everyone asks for again — and this is it. Once your friends and family try them, they’ll be requesting Christmas Cherry Bombs for every holiday gathering.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
To make the perfect batch of Christmas Cherry Bombs, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients — but each one plays a crucial role in creating that balance of flavors and textures.
1 Maraschino Cherries
The star of the show!
Their bright color and syrupy sweetness bring that unmistakable festive touch. Make sure to drain and pat them dry thoroughly before using — any excess liquid will make your filling too soft to shape.
You can use stem-on cherries for easy dipping (and for a cute presentation), or stemless ones if you prefer a smoother, truffle-style look.
2 Cream Cheese Mixture
This is the creamy core that surrounds each cherry.
You’ll need ½ cup softened cream cheese, ¼ cup powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
The result is smooth, slightly tangy, and just sweet enough to complement the cherries without overpowering them. It’s like cheesecake meets candy — a dreamy combination.
3 White Chocolate Coating
The outer shell of these bombs should be rich and glossy, so quality matters. Use high-quality white chocolate chips or melting wafers. Melt them gently in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until silky.
Pro tip: A teaspoon of coconut oil added during melting helps create a smoother, shinier finish that hardens perfectly once chilled.
4 Graham Cracker & Pecan Crunch
The finishing touch!
This layer adds a nutty, buttery crunch that balances all the creaminess inside.
Use ½ cup crushed graham crackers and ¼ cup chopped pecans. Mix them together before rolling the dipped cherry bombs. For extra flair, toast the pecans lightly in a pan before chopping — it enhances their flavor beautifully.
Essential Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy equipment or professional gear to make these beautiful little treats — just a few basics you likely already have at home.
Here’s what you’ll want to have ready before you start:
- Mixing bowls: You’ll need one medium bowl for the cream cheese filling and another small one for your chocolate.
- Hand mixer or spatula: A hand mixer gives you that ultra-smooth cream cheese mixture, but a sturdy spatula works fine, too.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is important — especially for melting chocolate and combining the right ratios.
- Baking sheet: Line it with parchment or wax paper to set the cherry bombs as they chill.
- Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the white chocolate.
- Forks or skewers: Great for dipping the cherry balls in melted chocolate without making a mess.
- Refrigerator or freezer space: You’ll need room for chilling between steps.
Optional but handy:
- Small cookie scoop: Keeps each portion uniform.
- Decorating trays or festive liners: Perfect for serving or gifting these holiday bites.
When you have all your tools ready, the rest of the process is pure fun — like a mini dessert-making workshop in your own kitchen.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
This is where the magic happens — where a few simple ingredients transform into snowball-like bites of holiday bliss.
We’ll walk through each stage so you can recreate the same texture and look as the recipe image you provided — creamy centers, glossy chocolate, and that golden nutty crunch.
1 Mixing the Filling (5 minutes)
Start by beating ½ cup softened cream cheese in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Add ¼ cup powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until the texture is completely lump-free.
You want a thick, spreadable consistency — not too stiff, not too soft. If it feels too loose, add a spoonful more powdered sugar to firm it up.
This creamy mixture will act like a cozy blanket around each cherry, so make sure it’s silky-smooth. The vanilla gives a hint of warmth that ties perfectly into the festive season, making each bite taste like a winter hug.
2 Folding in the Cherries (5 minutes)
Next, gently fold in your 1 cup of maraschino cherries, which should already be drained and patted dry.
Coat them evenly in the cream cheese mixture. Be gentle — you want to avoid breaking the cherries, as their syrupy centers can bleed into the mixture.
If you’re using stem-on cherries, leave the stems sticking out — they’ll make dipping easier and give a charming, rustic look later.
At this stage, you’ll already see how pretty they look: little red gems wrapped in velvety white cream.
3 Shaping & Chilling (30 minutes)
Using a spoon or your hands, shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls — each should be about an inch in diameter.
Place them on your parchment-lined tray, leaving a bit of space between each one. They’ll look like tiny snowballs, ready for their chocolate coating.
Freeze for about 30 minutes, or refrigerate for an hour, until they’re firm enough to handle easily. This chilling step is key — it keeps them from falling apart when dipped into the warm chocolate later.
4 Melting the Chocolate (5 minutes)
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each burst. Once mostly melted, stir continuously until smooth and glossy.
You can also melt it over a double boiler if you prefer more control.
Optional but recommended: stir in 1 teaspoon of coconut oil for a thinner, more even coating and that professional, shiny finish you see in confectionery shops.
The aroma of melted white chocolate is pure holiday heaven — sweet, creamy, and comforting.
5 Coating & Rolling (10 minutes)
Now for the fun part!
Take your chilled cherry bombs and dip each one into the melted white chocolate, coating it completely. You can use a fork, skewer, or even the cherry stem to hold them while dipping.
Let any excess chocolate drip off, then immediately roll the coated ball in a bowl of crushed graham crackers mixed with chopped pecans.
The crumbs will cling beautifully to the still-wet chocolate, creating a golden, slightly crunchy shell that contrasts perfectly with the creamy inside.
You can get creative here, too — sprinkle with edible glitter, crushed candy canes, or even a dusting of cinnamon sugar for extra sparkle.
Place the coated bombs back onto your lined tray.
6 Chilling & Serving (1 hour)
Once all the cherry bombs are coated, transfer the tray to the fridge. Chill for at least one hour to let the chocolate fully set.
As they cool, the white chocolate hardens into a delicate shell, while the cream cheese inside stays soft and luscious.
When you bite into one, you’ll get that perfect contrast — crisp shell, creamy middle, juicy cherry burst.
Serve them chilled on a festive platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar “snow,” or tuck them into mini paper cups for gifting.
They look like they came straight from a holiday patisserie, but you’ll know the secret: they’re homemade, no-bake, and incredibly easy to make.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Even a no-bake dessert deserves a few pro tricks! These will help you get bakery-quality results every single time.
- Dry the Cherries Completely
Too much liquid is the enemy of a firm filling. Pat the cherries dry, then let them sit on paper towels for 10–15 minutes before using. - Chill Generously Between Steps
Don’t rush the chilling process. The firmer the cherry balls are before dipping, the smoother your final coating will be. - Work in Batches
If your kitchen is warm, keep half the cherry balls in the fridge while coating the others to prevent melting. - Use Good-Quality Chocolate
High-end white chocolate melts smoother, sets better, and tastes creamier than cheaper versions. - Add a Touch of Oil for Shine
Coconut or vegetable oil keeps your chocolate smooth and gives it that beautiful sheen. - Customize the Crunch
Add festive sprinkles, crushed pistachios, or shredded coconut for a fun texture variation.
With these small adjustments, you’ll turn a simple treat into a showstopper.
Creative Variations & Flavor Ideas
Once you master the classic version, you can easily experiment and create your own signature Christmas Cherry Bombs.
🎅 Dark Chocolate Cherry Bombs
Swap the white chocolate for dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a rich, decadent twist. The contrast between the dark shell and the bright cherry is stunning.
❄️ Snowy Coconut Bombs
After coating in white chocolate, roll in shredded coconut for a snowball effect — perfect for winter-themed parties.
🍸 Boozy Cherry Bombs
Soak the cherries in a splash of amaretto or rum for an adult version that’s irresistible at cocktail parties.
🍓 Berry Bliss Bombs
Replace cherries with small strawberries or raspberries for a fresh fruit variation.
🎄 Peppermint Crunch Bombs
Add a drop of peppermint extract to the chocolate and roll in crushed candy canes for that classic Christmas minty finish.
No matter which version you make, the result will always be festive, flavorful, and fun.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips
The best part about these cherry bombs (besides how good they taste) is that they’re make-ahead friendly — which means less stress during the holidays.
Here’s how to plan ahead like a pro:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cherry-cream balls up to 24 hours in advance and keep them chilled before dipping.
- Storage: Store finished cherry bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the undipped balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag once firm. When ready to finish, thaw slightly and dip in chocolate as usual.
- Serving: Serve them chilled, straight from the fridge, or let them rest at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving for a softer bite.
They’re ideal for making ahead for parties, gift boxes, or cookie exchanges.
Serving Suggestions — Making Christmas Cherry Bombs Look Magical
Presentation transforms these little confections from “cute” to utterly enchanting. Because they’re naturally colorful, you barely need to decorate — but the right serving setup can make them the centerpiece of any dessert spread.
1️⃣ Holiday Dessert Board – Arrange your cherry bombs on a wooden board with sprigs of rosemary and sugared cranberries for that wintry woodland look.
2️⃣ Festive Cup Liners – Place each bomb in a red-and-gold mini cupcake liner. It keeps fingers clean and makes the candies look gift-ready.
3️⃣ Dusting of Snow – Sift powdered sugar over the platter right before serving. It glimmers like fresh snow on Christmas morning.
4️⃣ Layered Dessert Jar – Pop two or three bombs into a small jar with ribbons; perfect for edible gifts or stocking stuffers.
5️⃣ On a Cake Tier – Mix these among cookies, truffles, and fudge bites for a luxurious dessert tower that draws every eye at the table.
No matter how you display them, remember: serve them chilled, so the chocolate stays crisp and the centers creamy. Each guest gets a bite-sized moment of Christmas joy.
Perfect Drink Pairings for Holiday Cheer
Pairing matters more than people realize — the right beverage accentuates the creamy filling and balances the sweetness of white chocolate.
☕ Espresso or Cappuccino – The bitterness of coffee cuts through the sweetness for a sophisticated after-dinner combination.
🍵 Peppermint or Earl Grey Tea – Light and fragrant, these teas complement the cherry flavor without overpowering it.
🥂 Sparkling Wine or Prosecco – The bubbles refresh the palate between bites — an elegant touch for holiday parties.
🍒 Cherry Cordial or Dessert Wine – Doubling down on cherry flavor makes for a beautifully harmonious dessert pairing.
🥛 Cold Milk or Almond Milk – Simple, nostalgic, and family-friendly.
Create a small “pairing station” at your gathering — guests can pick their treat and matching drink, turning dessert into an experience.
Nutritional Information (Per Cherry Bomb)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Sugar | 13 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sodium | 40 mg |
These little indulgences are rich but portion-controlled — small enough to enjoy guilt-free while still satisfying that holiday sweet tooth.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Even a no-bake recipe has pitfalls. Here’s how to ensure every batch turns out picture-perfect:
1️⃣ Skipping the Drying Step: Extra moisture from cherries makes the mixture slippery and prevents coating from sticking. Always pat dry thoroughly.
2️⃣ Rushing the Chill: Warm or soft balls fall apart in melted chocolate. Freeze for at least 30 minutes before dipping.
3️⃣ Overheating Chocolate: White chocolate scorches easily. Melt slowly in short bursts and stir constantly.
4️⃣ Too Much Powdered Sugar: It stiffens the filling and dulls the creaminess — measure carefully.
5️⃣ Using Cold Chocolate: Once it starts to thicken, re-warm gently; otherwise, coatings turn lumpy.
6️⃣ Improper Storage: Condensation ruins the crisp texture. Keep in an airtight container with parchment between layers.
Following these simple checks guarantees glossy, firm, and irresistible results every time.
Print
Christmas Cherry Bombs
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Description
🎅 A festive no-bake delight bursting with holiday cheer! Sweet, creamy, and crunchy all at once — these Christmas Cherry Bombs are little bites of Christmas magic. Juicy maraschino cherries wrapped in velvety cream cheese, dipped in white chocolate, and rolled in graham crackers and pecans. Perfect for cookie trays, parties, or gifting! 🎁❄️
Ingredients
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
½ cup cream cheese, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
½ cup crushed graham crackers
¼ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Mix the Filling (5 mins)
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth, creamy, and lump-free. 🍶✨Add the Cherries (5 mins)
Gently fold in the drained maraschino cherries until each one is evenly coated in the creamy mixture. 🍒💗Shape & Chill (30 mins)
Using a small spoon or your hands, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes until firm. ❄️👌Melt the Chocolate (5 mins)
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth and glossy. 🍫✨Coat & Roll (10 mins)
Dip each chilled cherry ball into melted white chocolate, coating completely. Then roll in crushed graham crackers and chopped pecans for that festive crunch. 🌰🍪
Chill & Serve (1 hour)
Place coated cherry bombs back on the tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and sweet holiday goodness! 🎄❤️
Notes
Keep the cherry balls frozen until just before dipping to make coating in white chocolate easier. ❄️
Use high-quality white chocolate for a smoother, creamier, and shinier finish. 🍫
You can swap pecans for almonds or crushed walnuts for a different crunch. 🌰
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days — they taste even better chilled. 🥶
For a festive twist, drizzle a little red or green colored chocolate over the top before chilling. 🎨🎄
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 150 kcal
Why Everyone Loves Christmas Cherry Bombs
Part of their charm lies in the contrast of textures and flavors — cool white chocolate meets creamy filling, meets juicy cherry center. They’re the dessert version of opening a gift: layers of surprise and delight.
They also capture the essence of the holidays — the ruby-red cherries glisten like ornaments, the white chocolate looks like snow, and the nutty crumb adds that cozy, fireside crunch.
Plus, they’re universally loved because:
- They’re bite-sized, easy to share, and no utensils required.
- They make great gifts, traveling well without melting easily.
- They’re customizable — from sprinkles to flavors to chocolate types.
- They deliver nostalgia, reminiscent of old-fashioned cherry cordials but lighter and creamier.
Every party, cookie swap, or holiday dinner needs a treat like this — festive, fun, and irresistibly photogenic.
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Conclusion – Festive, Creamy, and Unforgettable
When it comes to easy yet elegant Christmas desserts, these Christmas Cherry Bombs truly shine. They combine the best of the season — sweetness, color, and joy — in one creamy, crunchy bite.
Whether you’re gifting them in little tins, serving them at a holiday dinner, or sneaking one from the fridge at midnight, they bring instant Christmas spirit.
They require no oven, no complicated steps, and yet look like something you’d find in a gourmet confectionery window.
So, tie on your apron, melt that chocolate, and roll up a bit of Christmas magic — because these cherry bombs aren’t just desserts; they’re merry little miracles in every bite.
FAQs About Christmas Cherry Bombs
1️⃣ Can I make them without nuts?
Yes! Replace pecans with more graham cracker crumbs or shredded coconut for nut-free crunch.
2️⃣ Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white?
Absolutely. Each gives a distinct flavor — dark for richness, milk for classic candy-bar sweetness.
3️⃣ How far ahead can I prepare them?
You can prepare them up to 3 days in advance. Just store them chilled and airtight.
4️⃣ Can I make these vegan?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan white chocolate. Coconut oil helps keep the coating glossy.
5️⃣ Why is my coating uneven?
Your chocolate may have cooled too much. Re-warm in short bursts to restore smoothness.
6️⃣ How do I make them extra festive?
Add crushed candy canes, edible glitter, or drizzle colored chocolate stripes on top.
7️⃣ Can I double the recipe?
Yes — simply double all ingredients and work in batches for easier dipping.
8️⃣ What if my filling is too soft to shape?
Chill the mixture for 10–15 minutes; the cream cheese will firm up.
9️⃣ Can I freeze the finished bombs?
Yes. Freeze on a tray until solid, then transfer to a bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
🔟 Do they taste better chilled or room temperature?
Chilled! The firm chocolate and cool filling contrast beautifully with the juicy cherry center.
Final Thought:
Christmas Cherry Bombs are proof that holiday desserts don’t need to be complicated to be unforgettable. A handful of ingredients, a dash of creativity, and a touch of love — that’s all it takes to create a treat everyone will be talking about long after the last carol fades.
