Cherry Balls

Introduction

History

The exact origins of Cherry Balls are unknown, but they have been a popular party food for many years. This recipe is a modern twist on the classic stuffed cherry tomato appetizer.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a small spoon or melon baller to easily scoop out the insides of the cherry tomatoes.

- Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the egg salad or tuna salad before stuffing the tomatoes.

- Chill the Cherry Balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cherry Balls as a tasty appetizer at your next party or gathering. They pair well with a variety of other finger foods and can be enjoyed on their own.

Cooking Techniques

Stuffing the cherry tomatoes can be a bit tricky, but with a little practice, you'll get the hang of it. Use a small spoon or melon baller to carefully remove the insides of the tomatoes without breaking the skin.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cherry tomatoes on hand, you can use grape tomatoes or small cocktail tomatoes instead. You can also use different types of salad fillings, such as chicken salad or avocado salad.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Cherry Balls up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Cherry Balls on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation. You can also serve them in individual mini muffin liners for a fun and festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cherry Balls pair well with a variety of beverages, such as white wine, sparkling water, or a fruity cocktail. They also go well with other appetizers like cheese and crackers or vegetable crudités.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Cherry Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply allow them to come to room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each Cherry Ball contains approximately 30 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each Cherry Ball contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each Cherry Ball contains approximately 2 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each Cherry Ball contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cherry Balls are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

Cherry Balls may contain dairy and eggs.

Summary

Cherry Balls are a low-calorie appetizer that is rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a great option for those looking for a healthy and delicious snack.

Summary

Cherry Balls are a delicious and nutritious appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. With their burst of flavor and easy preparation, they are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Cherry Balls. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning the ways of the kitchen from my own grandmother. She was a master in the art of cooking and had a treasure trove of recipes that she had collected from various places and people over the years.

One day, while rummaging through an old recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded index card that simply read "Cherry Balls." Intrigued by the mysterious name, I asked my grandmother about it. With a twinkle in her eye, she explained that the recipe had been passed down to her from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago.

According to my grandmother, the recipe for Cherry Balls was a family favorite, especially during the holiday season. It was a simple yet delicious treat that was perfect for sharing with loved ones. Eager to learn the secret behind this beloved recipe, I asked my grandmother to teach me how to make it.

We gathered the ingredients - butter, sugar, vanilla extract, flour, chopped nuts, and of course, maraschino cherries. As we worked together in the kitchen, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood and the memories she had of making Cherry Balls with her grandmother.

The process was simple, yet required patience and attention to detail. We creamed the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, then added in the vanilla extract and flour. The chopped nuts were folded in gently, adding a delightful crunch to the dough.

Finally, it was time to assemble the Cherry Balls. Taking a small piece of dough, we flattened it in the palm of our hands and placed a maraschino cherry in the center. Carefully, we shaped the dough around the cherry, forming a perfect ball. The finished Cherry Balls were placed on a baking sheet and popped into the oven to bake.

As the sweet aroma of baking Cherry Balls filled the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had learned a cherished family recipe from my grandmother, a tradition that had been passed down through generations.

When the Cherry Balls were finally ready, we allowed them to cool before sampling our handiwork. The first bite was pure bliss - a perfect combination of buttery dough, sweet cherry, and crunchy nuts. I could see why this recipe had stood the test of time and remained a favorite among our family.

From that day on, Cherry Balls became a staple in our holiday baking repertoire. I would make them every year, sharing the recipe with friends and family who quickly fell in love with the sweet treat.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I continued to make Cherry Balls, passing down the recipe to my own children. It became a cherished tradition in our household, one that reminded us of the love and memories shared in the kitchen with my grandmother.

Now, as I look back on those days spent learning to make Cherry Balls with my grandmother, I am filled with gratitude for the knowledge and skills she passed down to me. The recipe for Cherry Balls may have originated from a simple index card, but to me, it represents so much more - a connection to my past, a bond with my family, and a love for the art of cooking.

Categories

| American Recipes | Cherry Tomato Recipes | Cream Cheese Recipes | Kid-friendly Recipes | Snack Recipes |

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