Christmas Cherry Balls are a nostalgic no-bake holiday treat that blends sweet maraschino cherries, crushed graham crackers, shredded coconut, and sweetened condensed milk into a bite-sized dessert that’s festive, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Coated in coconut for a snowy finish, these soft, chewy balls are a favorite on Christmas cookie trays, in edible gift boxes, or as a quick make-ahead dessert for holiday gatherings.
With their bright red cherry centers and snowy white coating, these treats are as beautiful as they are delicious. They bring vintage charm to any dessert spread, and their quick preparation means you can make a batch in under 30 minutes—no oven required.
Often passed down from grandmothers or found in well-worn holiday cookbooks, Christmas Cherry Balls capture the magic of traditional holiday baking with just a few simple ingredients. They pair wonderfully with savory appetizers like cheesy biscuit appetizers or as a sweet counterbalance to a party menu featuring items from holiday appetizer ideas.
Their soft, sweet center wrapped in coconut makes them a delightful addition to cookie platters or dessert boards—and a guaranteed hit at any festive gathering.
Christmas Cherry Balls The Best No Bake Cherry Coconut Treat
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.
- Stir in the shredded coconut until fully incorporated. The mixture should be soft but hold together.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place one maraschino cherry in the center, then wrap the mixture around it to form a ball. Repeat with remaining cherries.
- Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips (and coconut oil or shortening, if using) in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Dip each chilled cherry ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, then let excess chocolate drip off.
- Place the coated balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate is set.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Notes
– Chill the mixture before rolling for easy shaping
– Roll in coconut just before serving for the freshest look
– Store chilled in airtight containers to maintain texture
– Pair with cheesy biscuit appetizers or include in themed trays from holiday appetizer ideas for balanced holiday spreads