Christmas Cherry Bombs

Name: Christmas Cherry Bombs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: PT-490537H1M28S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry; ½ cup cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup white chocolate chips, melted; ½ cup crushed graham crackers; ¼ cup chopped pecans

Author: Lora

Published: December 16, 2025

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Introduction to Christmas Cherry Bombs

Ah, the holidays! A time for joy, family, and of course, delightful treats. One of my all-time favorites to whip up are Christmas Cherry Bombs. These bite-sized wonders are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for busy moms and professionals like us. Picture this: you want to impress your loved ones but feel the pressure of time slipping away. With these festive treats, you create smiles in just minutes. Plus, who can resist the combo of sweet cherries, creamy goodness, and crunchy toppings? Let’s dive into this festive adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cherry Bombs

Let me share why these Christmas Cherry Bombs will become your go-to holiday treat. They’re quick to prepare, taking just under two hours, but feel like a gourmet dessert! The combination of creamy, sweet, and crunchy flavors dance on your palate, making them irresistible. Plus, they’re perfect for any gathering—whether it’s a cozy family get-together or a festive holiday party, everyone will adore these delightful bites!

Ingredients for Christmas Cherry Bombs

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step on your journey to these delicious Christmas Cherry Bombs. Here’s what you’ll need:

Maraschino cherries: These sweet little gems provide the burst of flavor. Make sure to choose a quality brand for the best taste.
Cream cheese: The star of our creamy mixture! Softened to room temperature, it creates that luscious texture.
Powdered sugar: A sprinkle of sweetness that helps achieve the perfect balance in our mixture.
Vanilla extract: The comforting aroma complements the flavors, adding a warm note that’s essential during festive times.
White chocolate chips: Melted to create a dreamy coating. You can use high-quality chocolate for a richer taste.
Graham crackers: Crunchy and sweet! Crushed to add that lovely texture contrast on the outside of each bomb.
Pecans: These nuts add a delightful crunch and nuttiness. Feel free to substitute them with other nuts if you’re not a fan.

If you’re looking to get adventurous, consider swapping out the pecans for shredded coconut or colorful sprinkles to give these cherry bombs a festive twist! Want to check the exact quantities? Look at the bottom of this article, where I’ve got them listed for your convenience.

How to Make Christmas Cherry Bombs

Creating these delightful Christmas Cherry Bombs is as easy as pie—in fact, easier! Follow along with my practical steps and get ready to impress your loved ones with these scrumptious bites.

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

Start by grabbing a medium bowl. To it, add your softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Take a sturdy spatula and mix them together until smooth and creamy. Be diligent—lumps have no place in this festive creation! Aim for a consistency that’s lump-free. The smell? Divine!

Step 2: Coat the Cherries

Now, gently fold in those lovely maraschino cherries. I like to do this with a spatula, ensuring each cherry is generously coated in that creamy goodness. The satisfying sight of cherries swathed in this mixture is a sneak peek of what’s to come. You’ll be thrilled at how they soak in the flavor!

Step 3: Shape the Cherry Bombs

Time to get your hands a bit messy! Using your fingers or a small spoon, scoop some of that cream cheese mixture and shape it into bite-sized balls around each cherry. Imagine rolling little treasures of joy in your palms. Once shaped, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This is where they’ll chill out for about 30 minutes until firm.

Step 4: Melt the White Chocolate

Next, let’s melt the white chocolate. Place your chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat them in 30-second intervals. After each burst, stir the chocolate until it’s smooth and glossy. This takes a bit of patience, but oh, the payoff! The aroma fills the kitchen like a sweet invitation to indulge.

Step 5: Dip and Roll the Cherry Bombs

With your chilled cherry creations ready, it’s time for their glamorous makeover! Dip each cherry ball into the melted white chocolate. Make sure they are completely coated—no shy cherries here! Once dipped, roll them in the crushed graham crackers and chopped pecans. The crunch will add a festive flair that makes each bite irresistible!

Step 6: Final Refrigeration

After dipping and rolling, place your decorated cherry bombs back on the sheet. They need to hang out in the fridge for at least an hour. This final chill will help them firm up even more, ensuring that each bite is a perfect mix of creamy and crunchy. Once they’re ready, you can serve them up with pride!

Tips for Success

Always pat your maraschino cherries dry to avoid a soggy mixture.
For a smoother creamy mixture, use softened cream cheese straight from the fridge.
Don’t rush the chocolate melting process; stirring often prevents burning.
Chilling the bombs for longer than an hour enhances their flavor and texture.
Get creative with toppings like coconut or festive sprinkles for added flair!

Equipment Needed

Medium bowl: For mixing the creamy mixture. A large mixing bowl works too!
Spatula: Ideal for blending ingredients. A wooden spoon can substitute perfectly.
Parchment paper: Lines the baking sheet. You can use a silicone mat if you have one.
Microwave-safe bowl: For melting chocolate. Any heat-safe bowl will do!
Refrigerator: Essential for chilling! Just your regular fridge will suffice.

Variations on Christmas Cherry Bombs

Chocolate Cherry Bombs: Swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with crushed graham crackers or oats for a nut-free treat.
Coconut-Lovers: Roll your cherry bombs in shredded coconut instead of graham crackers for a tropical twist.
Festive Sprinkles: Use colorful holiday sprinkles instead of chopped nuts for a fun and vibrant look.
Fruit-Flavored Cream: Mix in a few drops of almond extract or orange zest for a citrusy zing!

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Cherry Bombs

Festive Platter: Arrange the Christmas Cherry Bombs on a colorful, decorative platter for a gorgeous presentation.
Hot Cocoa: Pair these sweet bites with a warm mug of cocoa for a cozy treat.
Mini Cupcakes: Serve alongside mini cupcakes for a delightful dessert table surprise.
Fruit Salad: Complement the sweetness with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Holiday Drinks: Enjoy them with sparkling cider or holiday-themed cocktails for the perfect festive vibe!

FAQs about Christmas Cherry Bombs

Can I make Christmas Cherry Bombs in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare these delightful Christmas Cherry Bombs a day or two ahead of time. Just keep them stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What other toppings can I use for variety?

You’re in luck! Besides graham crackers and pecans, feel free to experiment with toppings like crushed Oreo cookies, colorful sprinkles, or even cocoa powder for a different twist on flavor and presentation!

How should I store the leftover Cherry Bombs?

Store your cherry bombs in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about a week, but I’m sure they’ll be gone long before then!

Can I substitute the white chocolate?

For sure! If white chocolate isn’t your thing, try dipping them in dark or milk chocolate. Each option brings its own flavor profile—perfect for diversifying your holiday sweets!

Are Christmas Cherry Bombs suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Simply swap the graham cracker coating for a gluten-free alternative, like crushed nuts or gluten-free cookies, and you’re good to go!

Final Thoughts

Making Christmas Cherry Bombs is more than just creating a delicious treat; it’s about sharing joy and building warm memories with loved ones. As you whip up these delightful bites, your kitchen fills with laughter and the sweet aroma of holidays. The combination of creamy cherries and crunchy toppings makes each bite a little celebration. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night at home, these festive treats are sure to delight. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, invite your family into the kitchen, and create those heartwarming moments this holiday season!