Christmas Cherry Bombs: A No-Bake Holiday Delight

Creamy, fruity, and dipped in white chocolate—these cherry bombs are the ultimate festive indulgence

Introduction: A Bite-Sized Burst of Holiday Joy

The holidays are a time for sparkle, sweetness, and sharing—and these Christmas Cherry Bombs check every box. With their creamy cheesecake center, juicy maraschino cherry surprise, and snowy white chocolate shell rolled in graham cracker crumbs and pecans, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.

These no-bake treats are perfect for cookie exchanges, dessert platters, or edible gifts. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a cheerful treat to enjoy with a cup of cocoa, these cherry bombs bring the magic.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cherry bombs so irresistible:

Core Ingredients:

• Maraschino cherries (1 cup, drained and patted dry)
  Sweet, juicy, and vibrantly red—these are the heart of each cherry bomb.

Tip: Use stemless cherries for easier mixing and shaping.

Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream cheese (½ cup, softened)
  Adds richness and a smooth texture.
• Powdered sugar (¼ cup)
  Sweetens the filling without graininess.
• Vanilla extract (½ tsp)
  Adds warmth and depth.

Optional: Add a pinch of salt or almond extract for extra flavor.

Coating and Crunch:

• White chocolate chips (1 cup, melted)
  Creates a creamy, sweet shell that sets beautifully.
• Crushed graham crackers (½ cup)
  Adds texture and a hint of buttery crunch.
• Chopped pecans (¼ cup)
  Adds nutty flavor and festive flair.

Optional: Use toasted pecans for deeper flavor or swap with walnuts or almonds.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or spatula
• Parchment-lined baking sheet
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Spoon or small cookie scoop

Tip: Chill your tools and hands slightly to prevent sticking when shaping the mixture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Base

In a medium bowl:

• Combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Tip: Use a hand mixer for a fluffier texture.

Step 2: Add the Cherries

Gently fold in the well-drained maraschino cherries.

Make sure they’re evenly coated with the cream cheese mixture.

Important: Excess moisture will make the mixture too soft—pat cherries dry thoroughly.

Step 3: Shape the Cherry Bombs

Using a small spoon or your hands:

• Scoop and shape the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1 inch).

Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.

Optional: Insert a toothpick before freezing for easier dipping later.

Step 4: Melt the White Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl:

• Melt white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.

Tip: Add 1 tsp shortening or coconut oil for a silkier finish.

Step 5: Dip and Coat

Remove cherry bombs from the freezer.

Dip each one into the melted white chocolate, coating completely.

Immediately roll in a mixture of crushed graham crackers and chopped pecans.

Place back on the parchment-lined sheet.

Optional: Sprinkle with edible glitter or holiday sprinkles before the chocolate sets.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the finished cherry bombs for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is fully set.

Serve chilled.

Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Holiday dessert platters
• Cookie exchanges
• Edible gifts
• Christmas Eve treats
• New Year’s Eve finger food

Pair with:

• Hot cocoa
• Peppermint mocha
• Sparkling cider
• Eggnog

Yields:

• 12 cherry bombs

Tip: Double the batch for parties or gifting.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these festive twists:

Chocolate Cherry Bombs

Use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate.

Coconut Crunch

Roll in shredded coconut instead of graham crackers and nuts.

Nut-Free

Skip the pecans and use holiday sprinkles or crushed cookies.

Berry Bliss

Swap maraschino cherries for dried cherries or chopped strawberries.

Vegan Version

Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan white chocolate.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance.
• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze undipped cherry bombs for up to 1 month. Dip and decorate after thawing.

Tip: Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 12)

• Calories: ~120
• Protein: ~2g
• Carbohydrates: ~14g
• Fat: ~6g
• Sugar: ~10g
• Sodium: ~40mg
• Fiber: ~0.5g

These treats are:

• No-bake and easy
• Festive and fun
• Kid-friendly
• Perfect for gifting
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Final Thoughts

These Christmas Cherry Bombs are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of the season in every bite. With their creamy center, sweet cherry surprise, and snowy white chocolate shell, they’re as joyful to look at as they are to eat.