Christmas Cherry Bombs

Published on: December 18, 2025

Festive Christmas Cherry Bombs dessert bursting with holiday flavors

Christmas Cherry Bombs are a fudgy, chocolatey delight that melt in your mouth with every bite. Adorned in a festive white chocolate coating, their rich interior bursts with the sweetness of maraschino cherries, creating a treat that’s both visually appealing and irresistible. The warm aroma of melted chocolate combined with the delightful scents of cream cheese and cherries makes these goodies extra special. With just a handful of simple ingredients, they are perfect for holiday gatherings, ensuring everyone shares a taste of the season’s joy.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Christmas Cherry Bombs are the ultimate holiday treat, perfect for festive parties or cozy night-ins with loved ones. Their delightful combination of flavors—from the rich cream cheese to the sweet cherries—provides a comforting indulgence that will brighten anyone’s day. These little treats are incredibly quick and easy to whip up, making them a go-to for those last-minute dessert cravings or potluck events. Versatile enough to adapt to your taste buds, they are sure to bring joy to both bakers and eaters alike!

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

The beauty of Christmas Cherry Bombs lies in their fresh and vibrant ingredients. Maraschino cherries add a burst of cheerful red, while the creamy texture of high-quality cream cheese contributes a luxurious mouthfeel. The sweet aroma of white chocolate combined with the crunch of pecans and graham crackers creates a festive sensory experience. These seasonal ingredients not only brighten your plate but also emphasize sustainability, as you’re using items that are easily sourced during the holiday season, creating a burst of flavor that’s natural and appealing.

What You’ll Need

1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
(Ensure cherries are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
(Use high-quality cream cheese for the best results.)
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Feel free to substitute with almond or peppermint extract for a flavor variation.)
1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
(Melt in 30-second intervals until smooth.)
1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
(Can substitute with coconut flakes for a tropical twist.)
1/4 cup chopped pecans
(Feel free to use different nuts as desired.)

Each ingredient contributes to the delightful texture and taste of the dessert. For dietary swaps, consider using dairy-free cream cheese and chocolate for a vegan option.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Prepare the Base

Begin by crushing the graham crackers until they resemble fine crumbs. The buttery aroma will waft through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a spatula. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this will create the decadent filling for the cherry bombs.

3. Shape the Bombs

Take a cherry and with your hands, form a small ball of the cream cheese mixture around it. Roll it gently to ensure it’s well-coated and has a smooth exterior. Repeat until all cherries are covered.

4. Coat the Bombs

Dip each cherry bomb in the melted white chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off. The glossy finish makes them look truly festive!

5. Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or chopped pecans onto the chocolate before it hardens for a fun, textured look. Let them chill in the fridge until the chocolate sets.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once set, place your Christmas Cherry Bombs on a festive serving platter. The first bite offers a beautiful contrast of crunchy and creamy textures, with a delightful hint of cherry flavor.

Essential Tools

Mixing bowls
Spatula for mixing
Cookie scoop for uniform size
Baking tray lined with parchment paper
Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

These delicious treats can be made in advance, making them perfect for holiday prepping. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cherry bombs individually in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. To enjoy, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator.

Perfect Pairings

Christmas Cherry Bombs pair beautifully with warm beverages like hot cocoa or spiced apple cider. They also complement festive cheesecake slices or a simple fruit platter for a balanced dessert table. For an extra festive touch, serve them alongside peppermint-flavored treats to highlight the holiday spirit. The contrast of textures from the creamy cherry bombs and the crunchy snacks adds dimension to your holiday spread.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry: If your cream cheese mixture feels too crumbly, add a splash of milk to get it pliable.
Chocolate Coating Breaks: Ensure the melted chocolate remains smooth and warm during dipping.
Unevenly Shaped Balls: Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizes, ensuring even baking and an attractive presentation.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate for melting to ensure a smooth and glossy finish.
Chill Before Dipping: Chill the formed balls for about 15 minutes before dipping in chocolate for easier handling.
Decorative Touches: Consider adding festive sprinkles or colored sugar to the chocolate coating to elevate your holiday presentation.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Nut-Free Version: Substitute chopped nuts with extra graham cracker crumbs or sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
Flavored Bombs: Experiment by mixing in citrus zest or crushed peppermint candies into the cream cheese filling for a more adventurous flavor profile.
Different Coatings: Instead of white chocolate, try using milk or dark chocolate for diverse flavor profiles.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

For those with allergies or dietary restrictions, this recipe can be adapted as necessary. Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option, or substitute with coconut flour. For vegan alternatives, opt for dairy-free cream cheese and chocolate options, ensuring it meets dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Yes! Fresh cherries can be used, but make sure to pit them and consider dipping them in a sweet syrup briefly to keep them moist.

2. How can I make these cherry bombs more festive?
Try adding a splash of peppermint extract to your cream cheese mix or a sprinkle of edible glitter on top for a fun twist!

3. Can I freeze these cherry bombs?
Absolutely! Just freeze them before dipping in chocolate for easy quick treats later.

4. How long do Christmas Cherry Bombs stay fresh?
They can last about a week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container; for the best flavor, consume them within 3–5 days.

5. What if I don’t have graham crackers?
You can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even finely chopped pretzels for a salty-sweet twist.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

In summary, Christmas Cherry Bombs are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season with friends and family. Their festive appearance and irresistible flavor are sure to make them a hit. Why not share your creations with us? Snap a picture and tag us on social media! For more holiday recipes, visit our dessert category page here. Happy baking!