Description

Bourbon Balls are delicious no-bake treats combining crushed vanilla wafers, toasted pecans, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, bourbon, vanilla extract, and corn syrup. Rolled into bite-sized balls and coated in powdered sugar, they offer a rich, sweet, nutty flavor perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting. These easy-to-make confections require no baking, making them a quick and delightful dessert option.

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

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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 gently crush them using a meat mallet or rolling pin until finely broken down.
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.
Mix wet ingredients: 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 bowl and stir thoroughly until a thick, cohesive dough forms.
Shape the balls: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon measure, portion out the dough into about 1 tablespoon portions. Roll each portion into roughly 1-inch diameter balls with your hands.
Coat with powdered sugar: Place powdered sugar in a medium bowl and roll each bourbon ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated.
Chill: Arrange the coated bourbon balls in a sealed container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the balls to firm up.
Store: Keep the bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, enjoying them chilled.

Notes

You can toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until fragrant for extra flavor.
Adjust the amount of bourbon according to taste preference for stronger or milder bourbon flavor.
If you prefer, substitute bourbon with whiskey or omit it for a non-alcoholic version.
Using light corn syrup helps bind and add smoothness to the dough; honey can be a substitute but may alter flavor and texture.
Make sure to refrigerate the balls adequately so they hold together well and the flavors develop.
These treats can be portioned smaller or bigger depending on your preference but 1-inch size is ideal for bite-sized enjoyment.
Use airtight storage to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.