Cherry Center Balls
Sweet cherry center balls coated in graham cracker crumbs, featuring a creamy coconut and vanilla flavor, perfect for a nostalgic treat or special occasion dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix confectioners sugar, evaporated milk, oleo, vanilla, and coconut together until smooth with an electric mixer.
- Form the mixture into balls and insert a cherry into the center of each.
- Roll each ball in graham cracker crumbs to coat.
- Refrigerate the completed cherry center balls before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider using almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese for oleo to reduce the fat content. Make sure to chill the mixture adequately to make forming the balls easier. Using fresh or maraschino cherries works well, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry center balls make for a delightful dessert at any gathering. Serve them on a platter alongside other treats, such as American recipes like the Berry-Cheese Pie or New Yorker Cookies, to create a dessert spread. They are also perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet snack during family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cherry center balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you prefer them to be firmer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator before serving, as they retain their texture well when defrosted.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Center Balls contains roughly 191 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dried cherries instead of fresh?
While fresh cherries provide a juicy burst of flavor, dried cherries can be used for a different texture. Just make sure to rehydrate them in warm water for about 10 minutes before inserting them into the balls to ensure they are moist and flavorful.
What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
If you don't have graham cracker crumbs on hand, crushed cookies like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers can be a great substitute. You can also use finely chopped nuts for a gluten-free option while adding a crunchy texture to the coating.
Can I make these cherry center balls ahead of time?
Yes, these cherry center balls can be made a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them even more delightful when served the next day.
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).