Introduction to Christmas Cherry Bombs
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself seeking quick, delightful recipes to share with family and friends. That’s where these Christmas Cherry Bombs come into play! Just thinking about them brings a smile to my face. They’re not only beautiful but also a delicious treat that combines sweet cherries and creamy goodness, elegantly wrapped in white chocolate.
When life gets busy, these festive treats are a perfect way to spread holiday cheer without too much fuss. Trust me; your loved ones will adore these cherry bomb surprises!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cherry Bombs
Christmas Cherry Bombs are the ultimate lifesaver for busy cooks like us! They come together in just a few simple steps, saving precious time during the holidays. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors—sweet, creamy, and crunchy—all wrapped in one festive package. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults, making them the perfect treat for gatherings or just casual family snacking. Who doesn’t love a delicious shortcut to holiday joy?
Ingredients for Christmas Cherry Bombs
Let’s gather the stars of our show! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful Christmas Cherry Bombs:
- Maraschino cherries: These juicy gems provide the perfect sweet base. Make sure they’re well-drained to avoid a soggy situation!
- Cream cheese: This creates a velvety smooth filling. For a lighter option, you could use reduced-fat cream cheese.
- Powdered sugar: This sweet dust adds just the right amount of sweetness, making the filling perfectly decadent.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this elevates flavors, bringing warmth and depth to our creamy mixture.
- White chocolate chips: Melting these creates a luscious coating. You could also substitute with dark chocolate for a twist.
- Crushed graham crackers: These add a delightful crunch and a hint of honeyed sweetness. Consider using gluten-free options if needed!
- Chopped pecans: These add an amazing texture and nutty flavor. Feel free to swap them with your favorite nuts or omit them for a nut-free treat.
You’ll find the exact measurements for these magical ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Now let’s get ready to bring these festive treats to life!
How to Make Christmas Cherry Bombs
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Filling
Begin by gathering a medium bowl and your softened cream cheese. Add it into the bowl along with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Grab your whisk or spatula and blend these ingredients together. You’ll want to stir until it becomes wonderfully smooth and creamy. There shouldn’t be any lumps—just pure, deliciousness! This creamy filling is the heart of your Christmas Cherry Bombs, so give it the attention it deserves. Once it’s ready, transfer your focus to the maraschino cherries waiting patiently!
Step 2: Coat the Cherries
Now it’s time to fold in those maraschino cherries. Carefully drop them into the creamy mixture you just created. Using a spatula, gently coat each cherry, ensuring they’re fully enveloped in that rich, creamy goodness. The cherries should look inviting and deliciously covered without breaking apart. This step is crucial; each cherry needs the perfect amount of filling to become a magnificent cherry bomb. Once coated, set them aside and get ready to shape them into something extraordinary!
Step 3: Shape the Cherry Bombs
With your cherry-coated treasures in hand, it’s time to shape them into bite-sized balls. Use a small spoon or your fingers to scoop out the filling and form small, even-sized balls. Aim for a size that will easily fit in your mouth—no one wants a messy bite! Place these cherry bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, keeping a bit of space between each one. After you’ve formed them all, slide the tray into the freezer. Freeze for about 30 minutes until they firm up—this helps with the next sweet step!
Step 4: Melt the White Chocolate
Time to transform those frozen cherry bombs! Grab a microwave-safe bowl and pour in your white chocolate chips. Microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each session. This ensures that your white chocolate melts evenly and smoothly, avoiding any clumps. You’re looking for a glossy, silky consistency; it should flow like a dream! If you prefer, you can also melt the white chocolate over a double boiler on the stove. Either way, your chocolate needs to be ready for the grand coating!
Step 5: Coat the Cherry Bombs
Next up is the fun part: it’s time to coat those cherry bombs! Take each chilled cherry ball and dip it into the melted white chocolate, making sure to cover it completely. A fork works great for lifting them in and out! Once coated, let any excess chocolate drip off. Now, roll each chocolate-covered bomb in your crushed graham crackers and chopped pecans. The crunchiness contrasts beautifully with the creaminess inside. Place the coated cherry bombs back on the parchment paper, ready for the final chilling!
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Your Christmas Cherry Bombs look stunning, but they need a little time to set. Place the tray back in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This chilling time allows the coating to firm up and meld with the creamy filling inside. Finally, once they’re ready, it’s time to gather friends and family. Serve them on a festive plate. Watching their faces light up as they try these delightful treats is truly one of the joys of the holidays!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to drain and pat dry the cherries well for the best texture in your cherry bombs.
- Feel free to experiment with toppings—try different nuts, or colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
- For a quicker setup, prepare the cherry bombs a day ahead and chill overnight.
- Look for white chocolate chips labeled “baking” for better melting consistency.
- Dispose of leftover melted chocolate responsibly; don’t waste that deliciousness!
Equipment Needed
- Medium mixing bowl: A large bowl is great, but any bowl will do!
- Whisk or spatula: Use a whisk for mixing or a spatula for gentle folding; both work fantastically.
- Baking sheet: A cookie tray lined with parchment paper is perfect for chilling those cherry bombs.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Essential for melting chocolate, but you can also use a double boiler.
- Fork: This handy tool is ideal for dipping and coating your cherry bombs.
Variations on Christmas Cherry Bombs
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap out white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Healthier Option: Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter version.
- Nut-Free Delight: Omit the pecans and substitute with crushed Oreo cookies for a new twist!
- Flavored Bombs: Add a splash of almond or hazelnut extract to the creamy filling for extra pizzazz.
- Seasonal Spice: Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, holiday flavor.
- Fruit Forward: Experiment with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries instead of cherries for different fruity bursts!
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Cherry Bombs
- Pair these festive treats with a chilled glass of sparkling cider or hot cocoa for a cozy holiday feel.
- Serve on a decorative platter with greenery and festive ornaments for an eye-catching presentation.
- Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside for an indulgent dessert experience.
FAQs about Christmas Cherry Bombs
Can I make Christmas Cherry Bombs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these festive treats one or even two days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them even more delicious!
What can I use instead of maraschino cherries?
If you’re looking for a change, swaps like fresh Bing cherries or other sweet fruits can do well too. Just ensure they’re pitted and equally sweet to keep that delightful flavor!
How should I store leftover Christmas Cherry Bombs?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last up to a week, but let’s be honest—you might not have any left after your family gets a taste!
Can I freeze Christmas Cherry Bombs?
Yes! If you want to make a larger batch, freezing these cherry bombs is easy and effective. Just layer them in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper, and they’ll keep for up to three months.
Are Christmas Cherry Bombs suitable for parties or gatherings?
<pAbsolutely, yes! These cherry bombs are perfect for parties. Their festive look and bite-sized portions make them an immediate crowd-pleaser. Just watch them disappear!
Final Thoughts on Christmas Cherry Bombs
Making Christmas Cherry Bombs is like wrapping joy in a delightful package. Each sweet bite captures the essence of holiday cheer, reminding me of family gatherings and laughter. They’re not just a treat; they’re a way to create lasting memories with loved ones. Whether you’re sharing them at a festive party or enjoying them while cozy at home, these cherry bombs will surely bring smiles all around. Plus, they’re so easy to make, even during the busiest holiday season! Trust me; your holiday spirit will thank you for this little indulgence.
Print
Christmas Cherry Bombs
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 mins
- Yield: 24 cherry bombs 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling, Mixing, Melting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Christmas Cherry Bombs are a delightful festive treat combining maraschino cherries filled with a creamy mixture and coated in white chocolate and crunchy toppings.
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
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth, creamy, and lump-free.
- Gently fold in the drained maraschino cherries until each one is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
- 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.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth and glossy.
- Dip each chilled cherry ball into melted white chocolate, coating completely. Then roll in crushed graham crackers and chopped pecans for that festive crunch.
- 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
- Make sure the cherries are well-drained and patted dry for the best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite nuts or sprinkles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cherry bomb
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
