If you are looking for a delightful little treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome, this Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls Recipe will quickly become your go-to snack. Bursting with the rich flavors of cocoa and the natural sweetness of dried cherries and dates, these bliss balls offer a perfect balance of chewy texture and chocolaty goodness. Whether you need a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a guilt-free dessert, these no-bake bites are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making them an irresistible option to keep on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Seven small white ceramic bowls are arranged on a white marbled surface. One bowl holds whole almonds, showing their light brown, smooth texture. Another bowl contains dark brown chocolate chips, glossy and irregularly shaped. There is a bowl with red dried cranberries, shiny and wrinkled. A different bowl is filled with smooth red-brown dates. One bowl has beige rolled oats, dry and flaky. Another holds black chia seeds, small and round. The last small bowl contains a reddish brown powder, likely cocoa. Near the bowls, there is a clear glass of water. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from lending sweetness and texture to adding a boost of protein and fiber. Together, they create a harmonious bite that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Dried cherries (1/4 cup, 35g): These bring a tangy sweetness and beautiful pops of color, enhancing both flavor and appearance.
Dates, pitted (1/4 cup, 40g): The natural caramel-like flavor of dates provides a perfect binding element and sweetness without refined sugar.
Boiling water (1/2 cup): Used to soak the dried fruit, softening it for easier blending and smoother texture.
Almonds (1/2 cup, 80g): Ground into a coarse flour, almonds offer a lovely nutty flavor and add satisfying crunch and protein.
Rolled oats (2 ½ tablespoons, 20g): These contribute heartiness and fiber, helping to keep you feeling full longer.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (2 ½ tablespoons): This packs a rich chocolate flavor while keeping the recipe naturally low in sugar.
Chia seeds (1 tablespoon, 15g): Adding a nutritional punch, chia seeds bring omega-3s and help with the binding process.
Pinch of salt: Just enough to brighten the chocolate and balance all the flavors perfectly.
Dairy-free chocolate chips (1/4 cup, 50g) (optional): For an extra burst of chocolatey decadence, these melt slightly into the balls for ultimate bliss.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Fruit

Start by placing the dried cherries and pitted dates in a small bowl of boiling water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes until they soften up, making them easier to blend. Once ready, drain the fruit well but be sure to reserve the soaking water for later use—it might come in handy to adjust the mixture’s texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Almond-Oat Base

Put the almonds and rolled oats into a high-speed food processor and pulse until they resemble a coarse flour. This step is important because it forms the foundation of your bliss balls, lending a nutty, slightly crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft fruit.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

Add the drained cherries, dates, cocoa powder, chia seeds, and a pinch of salt to the food processor with the almond-oat flour. Blend everything well, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure it all comes together smoothly. If the mixture feels too dry, gradually add some of the reserved soaking water until it holds shape without sticking too much.

Step 4: Mix in the Chocolate Chips

When the base mixture is smooth and well combined, stir in the optional dairy-free chocolate chips by hand. These little gems melt just a bit and add an extra layer of chocolate bliss that enhances every bite.

Step 5: Shape and Chill

Take about one tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll it between your palms to form round balls. Place them on a tray and pop them into the fridge for approximately 20 minutes to set. This chilling step helps the bliss balls firm up and makes them easier to enjoy.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with chunky, dark brown textured chocolate granola with visible small bits and a silver spoon inside. To the top right, there is another white bowl filled with smooth dark chocolate chips, and to the top left is a white bowl with bright, shiny red cherries with green stems. Around the bowls, there are a few loose cherries placed on a white marbled surface. The scene is bright and clean, focusing on the contrast between the rich chocolate colors and the fresh red cherries. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls Recipe, try rolling the finished balls in extra cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or shredded coconut before chilling. These garnishes add a lovely visual appeal and a little extra texture that makes serving these even more special.

Side Dishes

Pair these bliss balls with a warm cup of herbal tea or a chilled smoothie for a satisfying snack break. They also complement fresh fruit slices or a dollop of dairy-free yogurt beautifully, creating a well-rounded and nourishing mini-meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Present these bliss balls on a beautiful platter sprinkled with dried cherries and cocoa nibs or place each ball in pretty mini cupcake liners for a charming touch. You can also stack them in a glass jar for gifts or party favors to spread the joy of this easy and tasty Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover bliss balls fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They typically stay delicious for up to one week, making it easy to have a healthy snack ready whenever the craving hits.

Freezing

If you want to prepare a bigger batch, these bliss balls freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months, allowing you to thaw just a few when needed.

Reheating

Since these bliss balls are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, there’s no need to heat them. Simply take them out of the fridge or freezer and let them come to your preferred temperature naturally before digging in.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Absolutely! Cashews, walnuts, or pecans make great alternatives and will slightly change the flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment.

Are these bliss balls vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, especially when you use certified gluten-free oats and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Can I substitute other dried fruits for cherries?

Definitely. Dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots all work well and bring their own unique sweetness and tartness.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You could finely chop the almonds and oats and mash the soaked fruit by hand, but a food processor makes the process much smoother and quicker.

How calorie-dense are these bliss balls?

While packed with natural sugars and healthy fats, these bliss balls are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet—they make for a perfect energy-boosting snack.

Final Thoughts

Making these Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls Recipe is such a joyful experience, and the payoff is incredibly rewarding. Simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create a snack that’s satisfying, nourishing, and indulgent all at once. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as I do—once you try them, I bet they’ll become a staple in your snack rotation too!