Description
Bourbon Balls are a classic no-bake treat featuring finely crushed vanilla wafer cookies blended with toasted pecans, cocoa powder, and a rich bourbon-infused mixture. Rolled into bite-sized balls and coated in powdered sugar, they offer a delightful combination of nutty, chocolaty, and boozy flavors perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or flavoring
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- Powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Crush the Cookies: Use a food processor or food chopper to crush the vanilla wafer cookies into fine crumbs. Alternatively, place the cookies in a large zip-top bag and finely crush them using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the crushed cookie crumbs, finely chopped toasted pecans, unsweetened cocoa powder, and powdered sugar until evenly mixed.
- Prepare Bourbon Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the bourbon, vanilla extract, and light corn syrup until well combined.
- Form the Dough: Pour the bourbon mixture into the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until a thick dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Shape the Bourbon Balls: Use a cookie scoop to measure out about 1 tablespoon of dough per ball, then roll each portion into roughly 1-inch balls with your hands.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Place powdered sugar in a medium bowl and roll each bourbon ball in the sugar to coat them evenly.
- Chill the Bourbon Balls: Transfer the coated balls to a sealed container and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow them to set and develop flavor.
- Storage: Keep the bourbon balls refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes or until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust the bourbon amount to taste if you prefer a milder or stronger flavor.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized bourbon balls, which helps with even chilling and presentation.
- If you want a slightly firmer texture, refrigerate the balls longer before serving.
- This recipe yields approximately 60 small bourbon balls, ideal for parties and gatherings.
