Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will make your taste buds dance, look no further than these Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls! They are a favorite in my home, offering a wonderful combination of rich chocolate and vibrant cherry flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or simply as an afternoon snack, these bites of joy are so tasty you can’t eat just one!

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to prepare. In just a few easy steps, you can create a batch that will impress your friends and family alike. Whether you’re planning a cozy movie night or need a sweet treat for the kids, these Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls fit the bill beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip these up in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun of rolling the balls and adding their cherry on top!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These treats store well, allowing the flavors to develop over time.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate, vanilla, and cherries creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—from holiday parties to casual get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delicious Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls. You might already have many of these at home!

For the Chocolate Mixture

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

For the Base

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

For the Topping

• 24 red candied cherries, halved

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Different Nuts: Swap in almonds or walnuts for a unique crunch.
• Change Up the Sweetener: Use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a different flavor profile.
• Try Different Extracts: A hint of almond or coconut extract can add an interesting twist.
• Make Them Healthier: Substitute some of the confectioners’ sugar with unsweetened cocoa powder for a less sweet version.

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

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate Mixture

Start by melting the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the vanilla extract (alcohol-free) and corn syrup until everything is well combined and smooth. This step is crucial as it forms the delicious base that binds all our ingredients together.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the vanilla wafer crumbs, chopped pecans, and half of the confectioners’ sugar. Drizzling the melted chocolate mixture over this crumb mixture adds richness and flavor. Stir until everything is evenly blended—this mixture will be sticky but that’s exactly what we want!

Step 3: Shape into Balls

Now comes the fun part! With clean hands, shape small portions of the mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the remaining confectioners’ sugar until they are fully coated—this not only adds sweetness but also makes them look beautiful.

Step 4: Add Cherry Toppings

To finish off your Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls, gently press half a red candied cherry into the center of each ball. This little touch adds color and flavor that ties all elements together beautifully.

Step 5: Store and Enjoy!

Place your finished balls in an airtight container to let their flavors meld together for several days before enjoying. But trust me—if you can resist them longer than that!

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

Making Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls is a fun and rewarding experience, and with these tips, you’ll nail the recipe every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vanilla extract and quality chocolate chips enhance the flavor of your dessert, making each bite even more delicious.
• Chill the mixture: If the dough seems too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes shaping the balls much easier and helps them hold their shape.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add other nuts or dried fruits into the mixture for a unique twist. This adds different textures and flavors that can surprise your taste buds!
• Roll in coconut or nuts: Instead of just using confectioners’ sugar, consider rolling some of the balls in shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
• Taste test: Don’t hesitate to taste your mixture before rolling into balls. Adjust sweetness by adding more confectioners’ sugar if desired—this ensures you get your perfect flavor balance.

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

These delightful treats are not only a sweet indulgence but also perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home. Here are some creative ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top for added texture and a nutty flavor.
• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the finished balls adds elegance and an extra touch of chocolatiness.
• Sprinkle of sea salt: A touch of sea salt can enhance the sweetness and create a delightful contrast that elevates each bite.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter: Pairing these balls with a selection of fresh fruits like strawberries, apples, or grapes adds brightness and freshness to balance out the richness.
• Yogurt parfaits: Serve alongside creamy yogurt layered with granola and berries for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors that complements the sweet cherry vanilla treats.
• Nutty trail mix: A bowl of homemade trail mix filled with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits provides a crunchy companion that pairs well with the chewy texture of the cherry vanilla balls.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress your family and friends while enjoying every delicious bite yourself! Enjoy making your Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, they store well, making them an excellent treat for gatherings or a sweet snack throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the balls in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator.

Freezing

• Arrange the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• These treats are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer them warm, place them in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough to take the chill off!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls that might help you out!

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or any nut you prefer. Just ensure they are chopped finely.

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

To make these balls gluten-free, substitute the vanilla wafer crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

How long do Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last for about 5 days at room temperature and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cherry vanilla extract (alcohol-free) Balls! They’re not only easy to whip up but also bring a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you share them with friends or keep them all to yourself, I know you’ll love every bite. Enjoy your baking adventure!