Cherry Mint Christmas Balls

These Cherry Mint Christmas Balls are festive little homemade candies that combine sweet maraschino cherries, refreshing peppermint, and a smooth chocolate coating. With their creamy centers, beautiful holiday colors, and irresistible sweet-and-minty flavor, they’re a delicious addition to any Christmas dessert table.

Each bite brings together the fruity sweetness of cherries and the cool freshness of mint, all wrapped in rich chocolate. They’re soft, creamy, and wonderfully indulgent without requiring an oven or complicated candy-making techniques.

The best part is how easy they are to prepare! Simply mix the filling, shape it into little balls, chill until firm, and dip in melted chocolate. Whether you’re making Christmas candy trays, preparing homemade gifts, or looking for a special holiday treat, these Cherry Mint Christmas Balls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Cherry Mint Christmas Balls

• Festive holiday flavor: Sweet cherries and refreshing peppermint create a delicious Christmas-inspired combination.
• No baking required: Prepare these candies without turning on the oven.
• Creamy and delicious: The soft cherry filling pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate coating.
• Beautiful presentation: Red cherry pieces, chocolate, and holiday sprinkles make every candy look special.
• Perfect for gifting: Arrange them in decorative candy boxes or small paper liners.
• Easy to customize: Use white, milk, or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare them in advance and keep them refrigerated until serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cherry Mint Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped and thoroughly drained
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice, optional

For the Chocolate Coating

• 16 ounces semi-sweet chocolate melting wafers
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil, if needed for a smoother consistency

For Decoration

• 2 tablespoons red and green Christmas sprinkles
• 2 ounces melted white chocolate for drizzling
• A little finely crushed peppermint candy, optional

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Maraschino Cherries: These provide the sweet cherry flavor and beautiful red color. Drain them very well and pat them dry with paper towels before chopping. Excess moisture can make the filling too soft.

Cream Cheese: Full-fat block cream cheese creates a rich, smooth center. Let it soften at room temperature before mixing.

Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness and helps create a creamy candy filling.

Powdered Sugar: This gives the filling structure and makes it firm enough to roll into balls. Add it gradually to achieve the right consistency.

Peppermint Extract: Peppermint gives these candies their refreshing mint flavor. It is concentrated, so measure carefully. Too much can overpower the cherry flavor.

Vanilla Extract: Vanilla balances the peppermint and enhances the sweetness of the filling.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate: A slightly bittersweet chocolate coating balances the sweet cherry center. You can use dark or milk chocolate instead.

Coconut Oil: Optional, but a small amount can help thin the melted chocolate and make dipping easier.

How to Make Cherry Mint Christmas Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Drain the maraschino cherries using a fine-mesh strainer.

Finely chop them into small pieces, then spread them between layers of paper towels. Gently press to remove as much moisture as possible.

This step is especially important because excess cherry juice can make the filling sticky and difficult to shape.

Set the prepared cherries aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using an electric hand mixer.

Continue mixing for approximately 2 minutes, or until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add the Flavorings

Add the vanilla extract and peppermint extract.

Mix on low speed until evenly combined.

The peppermint should complement the cherry flavor rather than overpower it, so avoid adding too much.

Step 4: Add the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar, approximately one cup at a time.

Mix on low speed after each addition until a thick dough forms.

The filling should be firm enough to roll into balls without sticking excessively to your hands.

Step 5: Fold in the Cherries

Gently fold the chopped, dried maraschino cherries into the filling using a spatula.

Make sure the cherry pieces are distributed evenly throughout the mixture.

If the filling feels too soft, add another tablespoon of powdered sugar at a time until it becomes easier to handle.

Step 6: Chill the Filling

Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for approximately 45–60 minutes.

Chilling helps the butter and cream cheese firm up, making the filling easier to shape.

Step 7: Shape the Christmas Balls

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the chilled mixture into approximately 30 equal pieces.

Roll each portion gently between your palms to create smooth balls.

Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

Refrigerate for another 30 minutes, or until firm.

Step 8: Melt the Chocolate

Place the semi-sweet chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl.

Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

If the chocolate seems too thick for dipping, add a small amount of coconut oil and stir until incorporated.

Avoid overheating the chocolate because it can become thick and difficult to work with.

Step 9: Dip the Cherry Mint Balls

Remove the chilled filling balls from the refrigerator.

Using a dipping fork or two regular forks, lower each ball into the melted chocolate.

Turn gently until completely coated, then lift it out and allow the excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl.

Place each coated ball on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Work in small batches, keeping the remaining filling refrigerated while you dip.

Step 10: Decorate for Christmas

While the chocolate coating is still wet, sprinkle the tops with red and green Christmas sprinkles.

For an elegant finish, drizzle melted white chocolate over the candies.

You can also add a small amount of finely crushed peppermint candy for extra mint flavor and a festive appearance.

Step 11: Chill Until Set

Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator for approximately 20–30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating becomes completely firm.

Once set, transfer the Cherry Mint Christmas Balls to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Helpful Cooking Notes

• Dry the cherries thoroughly: Excess moisture is the most common reason cherry fillings become too soft.
• Use softened cream cheese and butter: This creates a smoother filling without lumps.
• Measure peppermint carefully: A small amount provides plenty of flavor.
• Add powdered sugar gradually: This makes it easier to control the consistency.
• Chill before rolling: Cold filling is much easier to handle.
• Use melting wafers: They are convenient and create a coating that sets without traditional tempering.
• Keep the chocolate warm, not hot: Overheated chocolate can become thick and difficult to dip.
• Decorate immediately: Add sprinkles before the coating hardens.
• Keep finished candies refrigerated: The cream cheese filling requires refrigeration.

Delicious Variations

White Chocolate Cherry Mint Balls

Replace the semi-sweet chocolate coating with white chocolate melting wafers. The white exterior creates a beautiful snowy appearance that looks especially festive for Christmas.

Finish with crushed peppermint candies or red sprinkles.

Dark Chocolate Cherry Mint Balls

Use dark chocolate melting wafers for a richer, less sweet coating. The deep chocolate flavor pairs wonderfully with the fruity cherry and refreshing mint filling.

Cherry Mint Coconut Balls

Fold 1/2 cup finely shredded sweetened coconut into the filling. The coconut adds a slightly chewy texture and a delicious flavor that complements the cherries.

Chocolate Peppermint Cherry Balls

Increase the peppermint extract slightly, using up to 3/4 teaspoon total if you enjoy a stronger mint flavor. Add a dark chocolate coating and crushed peppermint decorations.

Cherry Mint Cheesecake Balls

Add an extra ounce of softened cream cheese and reduce the powdered sugar slightly if needed. This creates a softer, tangier cheesecake-inspired center. Keep the candies refrigerated.

Christmas Cherry Mint Truffles

Make the balls slightly smaller and dip them in dark chocolate. Finish with a thin white chocolate drizzle and tiny red sprinkles for an elegant holiday candy tray.

Serving Suggestions

These Cherry Mint Christmas Balls are perfect for holiday gatherings, Christmas parties, and homemade candy gifts.

• Arrange them on a Christmas dessert platter with chocolate truffles, peanut butter snowballs, and homemade fudge.
• Place each candy in a mini paper liner for a beautiful presentation.
• Serve them with hot chocolate, coffee, or peppermint tea.
• Add them to homemade Christmas candy boxes.
• Arrange them on a white serving plate with extra red and green sprinkles.
• Package them in clear treat bags tied with festive ribbons for homemade gifts.

For a beautiful holiday presentation, arrange the candies in rows on a white platter and add a few decorative sprigs of rosemary around the edges.

Tips for the Best Cherry Mint Christmas Balls

1. Use well-drained cherries: Pat them dry several times to remove excess juice.
2. Chop cherries finely: Smaller pieces make the filling easier to roll.
3. Use real peppermint extract: It provides a clean, refreshing mint flavor.
4. Don’t add too much peppermint: Too much can overpower the cherry flavor.
5. Chill the filling properly: Firm filling makes shaping and dipping much easier.
6. Make evenly sized balls: A cookie scoop creates a consistent batch.
7. Avoid overheating chocolate: Melt slowly and stir frequently.
8. Add decorations while the chocolate is wet: This helps the toppings stick.
9. Store in the refrigerator: The cream cheese filling needs to stay chilled.

Storage Instructions

Because these candies contain cream cheese, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

They will keep for up to 5 days when properly refrigerated.

Place parchment paper between layers to prevent the chocolate coating from sticking or becoming damaged.

Remove only the amount you plan to serve and return the remaining candies to the refrigerator promptly.

Avoid leaving them at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or more than 1 hour when the temperature is above 90°F.

Can You Freeze Cherry Mint Christmas Balls?

Yes! These candies can be frozen for longer storage.

Allow the chocolate coating to set completely, then arrange the candies in a single layer inside a freezer-safe container.

Separate additional layers with parchment paper and seal the container tightly.

Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

When ready to serve, transfer the container to the refrigerator and allow the candies to thaw overnight while covered.

Avoid opening the container immediately because condensation can form on the chocolate coating.

Make-Ahead Instructions

These candies are perfect for preparing ahead of the busy Christmas season.

You can prepare the cherry mint filling, shape the balls, and refrigerate them in a covered container before dipping.

For the best results, dip them within 24 hours.

You can also prepare the finished candies several days before your holiday gathering and keep them refrigerated until serving.

Add any final decorative touches shortly before presenting them for the freshest appearance.

Cherry Mint Christmas Balls Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Setting Time: 20–30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: About 30 candies
• Category: Dessert, Candy
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information

Estimated per candy, based on 30 candies per batch with the chocolate coating. Actual values depend on the chocolate and ingredients used.

• Calories: 145
• Protein: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Total Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 25 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Maraschino cherries are recommended because they provide the classic sweet cherry flavor and bright red color. Fresh cherries contain more moisture and may make the filling too soft. If you want to use fresh cherries, cook them down first, cool completely, and drain thoroughly before adding them.

Can I make these candies without cream cheese?

Yes, but the filling will have a different texture. You can experiment with a butter-based powdered sugar filling, adjusting the powdered sugar until it is firm enough to roll.

Why is my filling too sticky?

The cherries may not have been drained sufficiently, or the filling may be too warm. Add powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time and refrigerate until firm.

How much peppermint extract should I use?

Start with 1/2 teaspoon for the entire batch. This gives the filling a noticeable mint flavor without overpowering the cherries. You can adjust slightly according to your taste.

Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?

Peppermint oil is much more concentrated than extract. It should only be used if it is specifically labeled food-grade, and the quantity must be reduced substantially according to the product instructions.

What is the best chocolate for coating?

Semi-sweet chocolate melting wafers are a convenient choice because they melt smoothly and set firmly. Dark, milk, and white chocolate melting wafers also work.

Can I make these Christmas balls without a chocolate coating?

Absolutely! You can roll the chilled balls in powdered sugar, finely shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or crushed peppermint candies.

Why is my chocolate coating cracking?

This can happen when very cold filling is dipped into excessively hot chocolate. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before dipping and allow the candies to set gradually in the refrigerator.

Are Cherry Mint Christmas Balls good for gifting?

Definitely! Their festive colors and chocolate coating make them beautiful additions to homemade Christmas candy boxes. Keep them refrigerated and let recipients know they contain cream cheese.

Can I prepare these candies ahead of Christmas?

Yes! You can prepare them up to 5 days ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Mint Christmas Balls are a delightful way to bring something special to your holiday dessert table. The combination of sweet cherries, refreshing peppermint, creamy filling, and rich chocolate creates a festive candy that looks just as wonderful as it tastes.

They’re easy to prepare, simple to customize, and perfect for Christmas parties, homemade gifts, and family celebrations. Make a batch, decorate them with colorful sprinkles, and enjoy these delicious little bites of cherry mint goodness!

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