In a bustling Southern kitchen, there exists a sweet treat that warms the heart and brings back the fondest memories of family gatherings. Cherry Ripe Balls, with their delightful chewy texture and hints of chocolatey goodness, evoke the charm of simpler times when laughter filled the air and love was baked into every batch.
Why make this recipe? Well, my dear friend, these little delights are not just treats; they are little bites of joy, perfect for celebrations, picnics, or just a cozy afternoon with a good book. Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a wonderful project to share with your loved ones, especially the little ones who will surely love getting their hands sticky!
How to make Cherry Ripe Balls
Ingredients:
- 200 g glace cherries
- 120 g crushed biscuits (see note 1)
- 350 g desiccated coconut
- 320 ml coconut condensed milk (see note 2)
- 50 g dark chocolate (melted for topping)
Directions:
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Prepare mixture: Begin by gathering your ingredients and setting a cozy space on your kitchen table. Chop the glace cherries into small pieces and toss them into a bowl. Add the crushed biscuits, desiccated coconut, and the coconut condensed milk to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined—a delightful, sticky ball of happiness is forming!
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Scoop and form: Using your hands, take a generous spoonful of the mixture and roll it into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. The kids will love this part, so don’t be shy to get them involved; it’s where the magic happens! Place these balls onto a tray lined with parchment paper.
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Decorate: Now, to add a touch of elegance, melt the dark chocolate gently in a bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Once melted, drizzle it over your Cherry Ripe Balls for that beautiful finishing touch. Allow them to set for a little while.
How to serve Cherry Ripe Balls? Serve them straight from the tray with a warm smile. They can be enjoyed as a sweet treat at dessert time or with a cup of tea during a lovely midday visit with friends.
How to store Cherry Ripe Balls? These little gems keep beautifully! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week. I promise they’ll be just as delicious as the day you made them—perfect for a late-night nibble or surprise guests popping by.
Tips to make Cherry Ripe Balls:
- For a little extra flavor, add a dash of vanilla extract to the mixture.
- If you desire more crunch, consider tossing in some chopped nuts or seeds.
- Get creative with the chocolate! A swirl of white chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate these treats beautifully.
Variations:
Feel free to swap out the glace cherries for dried cranberries or even add a splash of orange zest for a citrus twist. The possibilities are endless, and that’s the beauty of home cooking—it’s all about what makes your heart sing!
FAQs:
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Can I use fresh cherries instead of glace cherries?
Fresh cherries won’t have the same sweetness or the texture, but you could certainly use dried cherries instead. Just adjust the sweetness of the condensed milk accordingly! -
Are these gluten-free?
You can easily make these gluten-free by using gluten-free crushed biscuits. Just double-check the brand! -
How can I make these vegan?
Opt for vegan biscuits and coconut condensed milk to create a delightful vegan version of these treats.
So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the laughter and sticky fingers fill your kitchen as you whip up a batch of Cherry Ripe Balls. There’s a simple joy in sharing sweet treats, and every bite is a hug from the heart. Happy cooking, y’all!
Cherry Ripe Balls
Ingredients
Method
- Gather your ingredients and set a cozy space on your kitchen table.
- Chop the glace cherries into small pieces and toss them into a bowl.
- Add the crushed biscuits, desiccated coconut, and coconut condensed milk to the bowl.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
- Using your hands, take a generous spoonful of the mixture and roll it into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon.
- Place these balls onto a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Melt the dark chocolate gently in a bowl over simmering water or in the microwave.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the Cherry Ripe Balls and allow them to set.