I am glad you are here. You can make these rich, boozy Kentucky Bourbon Balls quickly. This no-bake recipe uses vanilla wafers and pecans for a classic Southern confection perfect for holiday parties or gifting.
Author:purejoyalex
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:About 24 balls 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 150 grams)
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup bourbon (use a good quality brand)
2 tablespoons light corn syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Extra confectioners’ sugar or cocoa powder for rolling
Instructions
Place the vanilla wafer crumbs and chopped pecans in a medium bowl.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder until fully combined.
Add the dry ingredients to the wafer and pecan mixture. Stir well to distribute evenly.
In a small cup, mix the bourbon, corn syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract.
Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix everything thoroughly with a sturdy spoon or your hands until a thick, uniform dough forms.
Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This makes rolling easier.
Place extra confectioners’ sugar or cocoa powder on a shallow plate.
Scoop out small amounts of the chilled dough (about 1 tablespoon) and roll it firmly between your palms into a ball shape.
Roll each ball in the coating until completely covered.
Place the finished bourbon balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Refrigerate the bourbon balls for at least 1 hour before serving. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
For a traditional Kentucky Bourbon Balls flavor, use a bourbon with a higher proof.
If the mixture seems too dry, add bourbon one teaspoon at a time until the dough holds together.
You can substitute graham cracker crumbs for vanilla wafers if needed.
These make excellent make ahead holiday treats for any festive gathering.