Cherry Bonbon Cookies are a delightful, no-bake treat that offers a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet cravings using simple pantry staples. These cookies are perfect for last-minute dessert needs, holiday baking platters, or simply as a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Key Ingredients for Cherry Bonbon Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained well and patted dry
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How to Make Cherry Bonbon Cookies:
These Cherry Bonbon Cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, delivering a charmingly sweet and satisfying bite with every cookie. The magic lies in their no-bake simplicity, requiring just a few minutes of active preparation before they’re ready to chill and enjoy. With a delightful chew and bursts of cherry flavor, these cookies are sure to become a fast favorite. Preparation time: approximately 15 minutes, plus chilling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
- Incorporate Flour Gradually: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, about a cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the dough once the flour is added.
- Fold in Cherries and Nuts: Gently fold in the drained and patted dry chopped maraschino cherries and chopped nuts (if using) by hand with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the dough is firm enough to handle and roll. This chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during shaping.
- Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into approximately 1-inch balls. Arrange the cookie balls about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. (Note: While these are no-bake, a baking sheet helps in organizing and chilling them before the final touches.)
- Chill Again: Place the baking sheet with the cookie balls into the refrigerator for another 15-20 minutes to firm up completely. This will help them hold their shape better.
- Optional Dusting: If desired, you can lightly dust the chilled cookie balls with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and a classic “bonbon” appearance.
- Serve: Arrange the Cherry Bonbon Cookies on a platter and serve immediately, or chill them further until ready to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Bonbon Cookies:
You’ll absolutely adore these Cherry Bonbon Cookies for their irresistible chewy texture and the bright, delightful bursts of maraschino cherry that dance on your palate. Unlike more complex baked goods, these no-bake wonders are incredibly budget-friendly to make at home, utilizing common pantry staples without sacrificing flavor. The optional addition of crunchy walnuts or pecans adds another layer of delightful texture, making each bite a satisfying experience, much like a classic chocolate chip cookie but with a unique, fruity twist.
They offer a charmingly nostalgic feel, reminiscent of old-fashioned treats, yet are so simple to assemble that even novice bakers can achieve impressive results in minutes. Imagine the convenience of having a delightful dessert ready for unexpected guests or a sudden sweet tooth, all without turning on your oven. Ready to bring a little bit of homemade magic to your day? Give these delightful Cherry Bonbon Cookies a try and prepare to be charmed by their simplicity and deliciousness!
Storing and Reheating Tips:
These Cherry Bonbon Cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If the weather is particularly warm or humid, it’s advisable to store them in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming too soft. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookie balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Reheating is not necessary for this no-bake treat; they are meant to be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.
Final Thoughts:
These Cherry Bonbon Cookies are a testament to the fact that delicious treats don’t always require extensive baking. Whip up a batch of these delightful bites for a simple yet impressive dessert that everyone will adore. Give them a try and experience the sweet satisfaction!
Cherry Bonbon Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.1 cup Unsalted butter, softened, 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- Beat in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.1 teaspoon Vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, about a cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the dough once the flour is added.2 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
- Gently fold in the drained and patted dry chopped maraschino cherries and chopped nuts (if using) by hand with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.1/2 cup Chopped maraschino cherries, 1/2 cup Finely chopped walnuts or pecans
- Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the dough is firm enough to handle and roll. This chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during shaping.
- Once chilled, scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into approximately 1-inch balls. Arrange the cookie balls about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. (Note: While these are no-bake, a baking sheet helps in organizing and chilling them before the final touches.)
- Place the baking sheet with the cookie balls into the refrigerator for another 15-20 minutes to firm up completely. This will help them hold their shape better.
- If desired, you can lightly dust the chilled cookie balls with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and a classic “bonbon” appearance.Powdered sugar
- Arrange the Cherry Bonbon Cookies on a platter and serve immediately, or chill them further until ready to enjoy.