Christmas Cherry Balls: A Festive No-Bake Holiday Classic

When it comes to easy and festive holiday treats, Christmas Cherry Balls are a timeless favorite. These bite-sized, no-bake sweets are made with sweet maraschino cherries, graham cracker crumbs, nuts, and a smooth chocolate coating. Rich, creamy, and perfectly festive, they’re a must-have on Christmas dessert trays, at holiday parties, and in homemade gift boxes.

With their bright cherry center and chocolatey exterior, Christmas Cherry Balls bring both beauty and irresistible flavor to any holiday celebration.

Why You’ll Love Christmas Cherry Balls

Christmas Cherry Balls are beloved for their simplicity and classic holiday taste. They require no baking, come together quickly, and can be made days in advance — perfect for the busy Christmas season. The combination of sweet cherries, crunchy crumbs, and smooth chocolate creates a flavor that feels nostalgic and comforting.

Here’s why they’re always a hit:

No-bake and easy to prepare
Perfect for make-ahead holiday baking
Festive, colorful appearance
Great for cookie exchanges and gifts
Loved by kids and adults alike

One bite delivers creamy, crunchy, sweet perfection with a pop of cherry flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 jar maraschino cherries, well-drained (with stems if desired)
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work best)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil (for smooth melting)

These simple pantry ingredients come together to create a truly memorable holiday treat.

How to Make Christmas Cherry Balls

Prepare the Cherries:
Drain the cherries thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from setting properly.
Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, graham cracker crumbs, chopped nuts, and vanilla extract. Stir until thick and well blended.
Form the Balls:
Scoop small portions of the mixture, flatten slightly, and wrap around each cherry. Roll into smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill:
Refrigerate the cherry balls for 30–45 minutes until firm.
Melt the Chocolate:
Melt the chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler until smooth.
Dip and Set:
Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place back on the parchment-lined tray and let the chocolate fully harden.
Store:
Once set, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

Use white chocolate for a snowy holiday look.
Roll the balls in colored sugar or sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
Add shredded coconut to the filling for extra texture.
Spike the filling with a drop of cherry or almond extract for deeper flavor.
Freeze for up to 2 months for early holiday prep.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Cherry Balls are a classic holiday treat that never goes out of style. Their rich chocolate coating, sweet cherry center, and creamy, crunchy filling make them irresistible on any dessert table. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these festive bites capture the spirit of the season in every delicious mouthful.