Description
Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining finely crushed vanilla wafer cookies, toasted pecans, cocoa powder, and bourbon for a rich, boozy flavor. Rolled in powdered sugar, these bite-sized confections are perfect for parties or as a sweet snack.
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 the cookies in a large ziptop bag and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to crush them finely.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the 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 thoroughly combined.
- Form the Dough: Add the bourbon mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a thick dough forms, ensuring all components are fully incorporated.
- Shape the Balls: Use a cookie scoop to measure approximately 1 tablespoon of dough, then roll it into roughly 1-inch balls with your hands.
- Coat and Chill: Place powdered sugar in a medium bowl and roll each bourbon ball in the powdered sugar to coat evenly. Arrange the coated balls in a sealed container.
- Chill and Store: Refrigerate the bourbon balls for at least 1 hour to firm up. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the bourbon balls to chill overnight to let the flavors meld.
- Use toasted pecans for a richer, nuttier taste and improved texture.
- These treats contain alcohol, so they are not suitable for children or those avoiding alcohol.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with an equal amount of vanilla or almond extract, though flavor will differ.
- Make sure the vanilla wafers are crushed finely to create a smooth dough mixture.
