Description
Bourbon Balls are decadent no-bake treats made from crushed vanilla wafers, toasted pecans, cocoa, and a splash of bourbon, coated in powdered sugar. These bite-sized confections are perfect for parties or holiday gatherings, delivering a rich, nutty flavor with a hint of warmth from the bourbon.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 (11-ounce) package vanilla wafer cookies
- 1 cup finely chopped toasted pecans
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- Powdered sugar for coating
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or flavoring
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
Instructions
- Crush the Cookies: Use a food processor or food chopper to crush the vanilla wafer cookies into fine crumbs. Alternatively, place cookies in a large zip-top bag and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to crush them finely.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the crushed cookie crumbs, finely chopped toasted pecans, unsweetened cocoa powder, and powdered sugar until well mixed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the bourbon, vanilla extract, and light corn syrup until blended. Pour this mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until a thick dough forms.
- Form the Balls: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon measure to scoop out dough portions, then roll each into roughly 1-inch balls by hand.
- Coat in Powdered Sugar: Place powdered sugar in a medium bowl. Roll each bourbon ball in the powdered sugar to fully coat. Then, transfer the coated balls into a sealed container.
- Chill and Store: Refrigerate the bourbon balls for at least one hour to set. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to maintain freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Use finely toasted pecans for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Adjust the amount of bourbon to your taste preference, but adding too much may prevent the dough from setting properly.
- For a sweeter coating, you can double-roll the bourbon balls in powdered sugar.
- If vanilla wafer cookies are unavailable, shortbread cookies make a good substitute.
- Ensure the bourbon balls are chilled well before serving for the best texture.
