If you’re looking for a holiday treat that blends sweet peppermint crunch with the warm cinnamon heat of Fireball Whisky, these Candy Cane Fireball Pearls are about to become your new Christmas obsession. They’re sparkly, festive, melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and unbelievably easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, filling treat boxes, or looking for a grown-up edible gift, this recipe delivers big holiday magic in tiny bite-sized pearls.
These vibrant red-and-white peppermint spheres look like something straight from Santa’s workshop — but with a spicy adult twist. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, variations, and serving ideas.
🎄 Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 cup crushed candy canes
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1 cup Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
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2 cups granulated sugar
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½ cup water
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Red edible glitter (optional but gorgeous!)
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Extra crushed candy canes for rolling
Tip: Use fresh candy canes — they crush more cleanly and produce brighter color.
🍬 How to Make Candy Cane Fireball Pearls
These pearls come together in just a few simple steps. Follow closely for perfect texture and shine.
Step 1: Prepare Your Candy Cane Mixture
Place the 1 cup crushed candy canes in a heat-proof bowl.
Pour 1 cup Fireball Whisky over them.
Let them sit for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until most of the candy dissolves.
➡️ This creates a peppermint-cinnamon syrup base full of holiday flavor.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan over medium heat:
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Add 2 cups granulated sugar
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Pour in ½ cup water
Stir until dissolved.
Heat the mixture until it reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Don’t skip this step! Hitting the correct temperature is what allows your pearls to form and hold their shape.
Step 3: Combine Syrups
Carefully pour your Fireball candy-cane syrup into the hot sugar syrup.
Stir gently and reduce heat to low.
Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the mixture to thicken.
Step 4: Cool Slightly & Shape
Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool until it reaches a moldable consistency — thick but not solid.
Scoop small portions with a spoon and roll them into pearl-sized balls using lightly greased hands.
Step 5: Decorate Your Pearls
You can finish your pearls in three festive ways:
✔ Roll in crushed candy canes
Adds crunch and sparkle.
✔ Dust with red edible glitter
Creates a shiny Christmas “ornament” effect.
✔ Leave them smooth
For a classic peppermint-cinnamon pearl look.
Place finished pearls on parchment paper to fully set.
