Can I make bourbon balls without alcohol?

Yes! Substitute the bourbon with apple juice, strong brewed coffee, or even orange juice for non-alcoholic versions. Each will give a different flavor profile, but all work well with the other ingredients. Just note that they won't have the signature bourbon flavor that makes these treats special.

How strong is the bourbon flavor in these balls?

The bourbon flavor is definitely noticeable but not overwhelming. Most of the alcohol evaporates during the resting period, leaving behind the complex flavor notes of the bourbon. If you want a stronger bourbon presence, you can add an extra tablespoon to the mixture or even brush a little over the formed balls before rolling in sugar.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Absolutely! In fact, bourbon balls actually improve with time as the flavors meld together. Make them up to two weeks before your event and store them in the refrigerator. They're perfect for preparing in advance during the busy holiday season.

My mixture is too dry/too wet. How do I fix it?

If your mixture is too dry and crumbly, add bourbon or corn syrup one teaspoon at a time until it holds together. If it's too wet to roll into balls, add more powdered sugar or crushed cookies until you reach the desired consistency. The exact amount can vary depending on the humidity and brand of ingredients used.

Bourbon Balls Recipe

Description

Delightful no-bake treats that are perfect for the holidays or any special occasion! These Bourbon Balls are a mouthwatering combination of vanilla wafers, toasted pecans, cocoa powder, and a splash of bourbon, all rolled into bite-sized goodness with a dusting of powdered sugar. They’re easy to prepare and only improve with age as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Ingredients

Units Scale

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

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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, you can place the cookies in a large zip-top bag and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs manually.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs, chopped pecans, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the bourbon, vanilla extract, and light corn syrup. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Form the Dough
Pour the bourbon mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until a thick, sticky dough forms. Ensure all ingredients are fully combined, with no dry patches.
Shape the Balls
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, measure out 1 tablespoon of dough. Roll the dough between your palms to form approximately 1-inch balls.
Coat the Balls
Place powdered sugar in a medium-sized bowl. Roll each bourbon ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated.
Chill and Store
Transfer the coated bourbon balls into a sealed container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. For longer storage, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Flavor Improvement: The flavors develop and intensify over time, so preparing these a day ahead will yield even better results.
Substitution: You can use rum in place of bourbon for a different flavor.
Coating Options: Experiment with other coatings, like melted chocolate, cocoa powder, or crushed nuts.
Alcohol-Free Option: Substitute bourbon with fruit juice like orange or apple cider for a kid-friendly version.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ball
Calories: 50
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg