Cherry-Almond Balls
Cherry-Almond Balls are delightful no-bake treats featuring sweet candied cherries coated in a flavorful mixture of vanilla wafers, almond extract, orange juice, and corn syrup. Perfect for parties or as a sweet gift, these bite-sized candies are colorful, festive, and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Karo light corn syrup, orange juice, and almond extract in a bowl.
- Add the finely crushed vanilla wafers to the mixture and combine well.
- Mold about 1 teaspoon of the mixture around a candied cherry, forming a ball.
- Roll each ball in colored sprinkles to coat evenly.
- Store the Cherry-Almond Balls tightly covered.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider substituting the almond extract with a mix of vanilla and coconut extracts for a tropical twist. If you don't have vanilla wafers, crushed graham crackers can be a great alternative. Make sure to finely crush the wafers to ensure the mixture holds together well when forming the balls.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry-Almond Balls make a delightful treat for parties or holiday gatherings. Serve them alongside a platter of Vegetable Bundles or Spiced Apple Rings Or Lime Pickles(Takes 3 Days To Make) for a colorful snack table. They also pair well with coffee or tea as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Cherry-Almond Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them, which can help maintain their texture. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the consistency of the candied cherries.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry-Almond Balls contains roughly 146 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of candied cherries?
While fresh cherries can be used, they won't provide the same sweetness and texture. If you prefer fresh cherries, consider pitting and coating them in a simple syrup to mimic the sweetness of candied cherries.
What can I do if my mixture is too sticky?
If the mixture is too sticky to mold into balls, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to work with. You can also lightly coat your hands with powdered sugar to help with shaping.
How can I make these Cherry-Almond Balls gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the vanilla wafers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Ensure that the other ingredients, especially the corn syrup, are also certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).