Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
1 (15.25-ounce) box vanilla cake mix
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling
1 small jar (about 10 oz) maraschino cherries, well drained
Paper towels (for drying cherries)
For Coating
12 oz white chocolate or white candy melts
Optional: red & green sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or colored sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries
- Drain the maraschino cherries completely.
- Lay them on paper towels and pat them very dry.
Important: Drying prevents the coating from slipping off.
- Make the Cookie Dough Base
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla cake mix.
- Mix until a thick dough forms.
If dough feels too sticky, chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.
- Shape the Balls
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough.
- Flatten it slightly in your palm.
- Place one dried cherry in the center.
- Wrap the dough around the cherry and roll into a smooth ball.
- Place the shaped balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Repeat until all cherries are used.
- Chill
Freeze the balls for 15–20 minutes.
This helps them stay firm when dipping in chocolate.
- Coat with White Chocolate
- Melt white chocolate or candy melts in the microwave (20–30 sec bursts, stirring in between).
- Dip each chilled cherry ball into the melted chocolate using a fork.
- Place back on parchment paper.
- Add sprinkles immediately before the coating sets.
- Let Them Set + Serve
Allow the cherry balls to set at room temperature or refrigerate for 10 minutes.
Serve and enjoy!
Soft, sweet, creamy, and perfect for Christmas 🎄✨