Cherry Port Balls

For a sweet and delicate snack that doesn't disappoint, try these chocolate-covered cherry port balls. Vanilla cookie crumbs and sea salt give these treats some character, but the port addition is what packs a real bite. Yields: about 20 servings Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups vanilla cookie crumbs packed 1 cup dried cherries 1 Tbsp pure vanilla extract 1 Tbsp lemon zest 1/4 tsp sea salt 1/4 cup plus 1 Tbsp favorite flavored or plain port 8 oz chocolate Sea salt Directions: In a food processor, combine cookie crumbs, cherries, vanilla extract, lemon zest, sea salt, and port, and process until smooth. Place in the fridge to firm up, about an hour until firm enough to shape into balls. When cold, shape into small 1 1/2 inch balls and place on a foil lined sheet pan. Place in the freezer and freeze until somewhat hard, a few hours. When chilled, heat chocolate in a bowl in the microwave in 30 second intervals until smooth. Dip each ball in chocolate, and place on the sheet pan. Sprinkle with a few grains sea salt, repeat with other balls, and let chocolate set (if you put them in the freezer it goes faster). Additional Information: This becomes a wonderful way to use your favorite Flavored Dessert Wine that you have made. Just imagine these created with the addition of Black Forest Dessert Wine, or Raspberry Mocha Dessert Wine... or even better with Salted Caramel Dessert Wine. Your friends and family will enjoy these as a gift or while visiting during the Holidays.