If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings joy to every occasion, look no further than these delightful Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls! These little bites of goodness are perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a cozy night in. The combination of rich chocolate and smooth vanilla makes them utterly irresistible. Plus, with a cherry nestled in each one, they add a pop of color and flavor that everyone will love.

What I adore about this recipe is its simplicity. You can whip up a batch in no time, and they’re always a hit! Whether you’re baking for a special event or preparing a treat for your loved ones, these Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls will surely brighten your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have these delicious treats ready to enjoy.
Family-Friendly: Kids will love rolling the balls and placing cherries on top—it’s a fun activity for everyone!
Make Ahead: These treats taste even better after sitting for a day, making them perfect for meal prep.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, vanilla, and cherries creates a flavor explosion that will keep you coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this recipe—just simple, wholesome items you probably already have at home! Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls:

For the Chocolate Mixture

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
0.5 cup vanilla extract (alcohol-free)
0.25 cup light corn syrup

For the Cookie Base

3 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
1.5 cups chopped pecans
1 cup confectioners’ sugar

For the Decoration

24 red candied cherries, halved

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

Add Some Spice: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
Go Nut-Free: Swap out the pecans for sunflower seeds if you want to keep it nut-free.
Try Different Toppings: Experiment with different types of dried fruit or sprinkles instead of cherries on top.
Change the Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile!

How to Make Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate Mixture

Start by melting the semisweet chocolate chips. This step is crucial because it creates the base for your candy balls. Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract (alcohol-free) and light corn syrup. This mixture brings richness and sweetness to your Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the vanilla wafer crumbs, chopped pecans, and ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar. Combining these ingredients adds texture and flavor. Drizzle the melted chocolate mixture over this crumb mixture and stir until everything is well blended.

Step 3: Shape Into Balls

Now comes the fun part! Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls with your hands. Rolling them into balls helps create that delightful bite-sized treat we all love. After shaping them, roll each ball in the remaining confectioners’ sugar. This adds sweetness as well as makes them look pretty!

Step 4: Add Cherries

To finish off each ball, gently press half of a red candied cherry into the center. This little touch not only looks beautiful but also gives each bite a burst of fruity flavor.

Step 5: Store and Enjoy

Place your finished Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls in an airtight container. If you can wait, let them sit for several days to develop their flavors fully. But trust me; it’s tough to resist diving in right away! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls

Making these delightful Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly!

Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh nuts and high-quality chocolate chips. This enhances the flavor and texture of your balls, making each bite more enjoyable.
Chill the mixture: If your mixture feels too sticky to work with, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to roll into perfect balls without sticking to your hands.
Experiment with flavors: While this recipe features cherry and vanilla, don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for a unique twist that complements the cherries beautifully.
Roll in various toppings: Instead of just confectioners’ sugar, try rolling some balls in crushed nuts or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. This not only looks appealing but also adds a delightful crunch!
Make ahead of time: These treats actually taste better after they’ve had time to sit. Prepare them a day or two in advance so the flavors can meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls

These Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls are fantastic for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying them as an afternoon treat. Their vibrant appearance and delicious flavor will surely impress your guests!

Garnishes

Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted semisweet chocolate over the top adds an elegant touch and enhances the chocolatey goodness.
Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans on top for an extra crunch that complements the nutty flavor within.

Side Dishes

Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls—perfect for a light dessert option.
Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a rich contrast to the chewy texture of the balls, creating a delightful dessert experience.
Coffee or tea: Pairing these treats with a hot cup of coffee or tea not only elevates your snacking experience but also helps cut through the sweetness after each bite.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to whip up these irresistible Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch ahead of time for those moments when you need a sweet treat. They store beautifully and actually develop even more flavor after resting!

Storing Leftovers

Store the balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life of about 2 weeks.
Ensure they are well-separated to avoid sticking together.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container.
These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

If you prefer them warm, take out the desired amount and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just chop them finely and mix them in as directed.

How do I make Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free vanilla wafer crumbs. Many brands offer suitable alternatives that will work perfectly!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of candied ones?

While candied cherries add sweetness and a fun color, you can use fresh cherries if you prefer. Just pit and halve them before adding to the center of each ball.

How long does it take for Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls to develop flavor?

These treats benefit from resting for at least a few hours, but they’ll be even better after sitting overnight in an airtight container!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls as I am! They’re not only delicious but also super easy to prepare ahead of time. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, these little bites of joy are sure to impress. Enjoy creating this special treat in your kitchen, and don’t forget to come back and share your thoughts!

Cherry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Balls

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Cherry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Balls, a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion! These bite-sized delights combine rich semisweet chocolate, smooth vanilla, and colorful cherries, making them an irresistible addition to family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or cozy nights at home. With their simple preparation and family-friendly appeal, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, they’re ideal for meal prep since they taste even better after resting!

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
0.5 cup alcohol-free vanilla extract
0.25 cup light corn syrup
3 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
1.5 cups chopped pecans
1 cup confectioners' sugar
24 red candied cherries, halved

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Instructions

Melt the chocolate chips with the alcohol-free vanilla extract and light corn syrup in a bowl until smooth.
In another bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs, chopped pecans, and half a cup of confectioners' sugar.
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the crumb mixture and stir until evenly blended.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and roll them in the remaining confectioners' sugar.
Press half a cherry into the center of each ball.
Store in an airtight container to let flavors develop before serving.