Boozy Christmas Cherry Bombs Recipe
Boozy Christmas Cherry Bombs are a festive and delicious holiday treat featuring maraschino cherries soaked in vanilla vodka, dipped in a smooth vanilla candy coating, and decorated with colorful green sugar and holiday nonpareils. Perfect as a fun party snack or a charming addition to your holiday dessert spread.
- Author: Lisa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes plus 12 to 24 hours soaking
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 12 hours 25 minutes to 24 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: About 40 cherry bombs 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Cherries and Soak
- 1 jar (10 oz) red maraschino cherries with stems
- 1/2 cup vanilla-flavored vodka
Candy Coating & Decoration
- 2 squares (about 3 oz) vanilla-flavored candy coating (almond bark), chopped (from 20-oz package)
- 1 tablespoon green crystallized sugar
- 1 tablespoon holiday nonpareils
- Soak the Cherries: Drain the maraschino cherries, discarding the juice. Return the cherries to the jar and pour the vanilla-flavored vodka over them. Replace the cover tightly and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours to allow the cherries to absorb the boozy flavors.
- Prepare for Dipping: Line a large cookie sheet with cooking parchment paper. Remove the cherries from the vodka, draining well. You can discard or save the vodka for use in cocktails. Pat the cherries dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure the candy coating adheres properly.
- Melt the Candy Coating: Place the chopped vanilla-flavored candy coating in a medium microwavable bowl. Microwave uncovered on High for 45 to 60 seconds, stirring frequently until the coating is fully melted and smooth.
- Dip and Decorate: Dip the bottom half of each chilled cherry into the melted candy coating. Immediately roll or sprinkle the coated cherry halves into the green crystallized sugar, then add holiday nonpareils for a festive touch. Set them on the prepared cookie sheet.
- Set the Coating: Allow the decorated cherries to stand at room temperature for about 10 minutes, or until the candy coating is firm to the touch.
- Store: Store the Boozy Christmas Cherry Bombs tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and festive.
Notes
- Ensure cherries are thoroughly dried before dipping to help the coating stick and prevent clumping.
- Use vanilla-flavored vodka for a complementary taste; regular vodka can be substituted but will alter flavor.
- You can save the vodka after soaking for creative cocktails or discard if preferred.
- For longer storage, airtight containers in the refrigerator are recommended but consume within 2 days for best quality.
- Handle the coated cherries gently as the candy coating can be fragile once set.
Keywords: Boozy cherries, Christmas candy bites, holiday snacks, vanilla vodka cherries, candy coated cherries