jim beam bourbon balls recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
jim beam bourbon balls recipe
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The Best jim beam bourbon balls recipe

I’ve been making Jim Beam Bourbon Balls for years, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together.

The combination of creamy peanut butter, crunchy oats, and rich bourbon is a match made in heaven. My kids love helping me make them, and they’re a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.

I’ve even started making them for potlucks and community events because they’re so easy to transport and serve. Plus, they’re surprisingly healthy considering they contain peanut butter – the oats add fiber and the bourbon is low in calories compared to other spirits.

I’ve experimented with different types of peanut butter, but creamy is still my favorite. I also like to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving for extra flavor and texture.

Jim Beam Bourbon Balls

Jim Beam Bourbon Balls

4.7 from 1550 votes

These no-bake bourbon balls combine crushed vanilla wafers, pecans, and a generous splash of Jim Beam bourbon for a boozy, chocolatey treat. Coated in powdered sugar, they are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a grown-up dessert.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins plus 1 hour chilling
Servings: 36 ballsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Bourbon Balls

2 1/2 cups finely crushed vanilla wafer crumbs (about 60 wafers)
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, divided
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup Jim Beam bourbon

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafer crumbs, finely chopped pecans, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder.
2Stir with a fork until the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3In a small bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup and Jim Beam bourbon until smooth.
4Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until a stiff, cohesive dough forms.
5If the mixture seems too dry, add an extra teaspoon of bourbon.
6Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the dough is firm enough to roll.
7Chilling makes the dough easier to shape and helps the flavors meld.
8Place the remaining 1/2 cup of powdered sugar in a shallow dish.
9Using your hands, roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls.
10Roll each ball in the powdered sugar until coated, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
11Store the bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
12They will keep for up to 2 weeks.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Food processor or rolling pin for crushing wafers
Small bowl
Baking sheet or tray
Parchment paper
Plastic wrap

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 55mg🌾Total Carbs: 16g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 11g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For a deeper bourbon flavor, let the balls rest in the fridge for 2 to 3 days before serving. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a smoother texture. Roll the balls again in powdered sugar just before serving for a fresh snowy look.

Watch Video Of How Jim Beam Bourbon Balls Works

These Jim Beam bourbon balls are a staple in my kitchen because they are so easy to make and always a hit. I usually store them in a covered container in the fridge, and they stay fresh for weeks.

When I want to serve them, I just take them out a few minutes before so they soften slightly. They are perfect for family gatherings because everyone loves the rich chocolate and bourbon flavor.

I also like to package them in little tins as gifts for neighbors and friends. Whether it is a holiday party or a casual dinner, these bourbon balls never disappoint.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Jim Beam Bourbon Balls

1. What type of peanut butter is best for Jim Beam Bourbon Balls?

I prefer using creamy peanut butter because it gives the balls a smoother texture and a more balanced flavor. You can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer, but be aware that it might make the balls slightly more chunky.

2. Can I use a different type of liquor besides Jim Beam?

While Jim Beam is my go-to choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other bourbons or even whiskey if you prefer. Just be aware that the flavor might change slightly depending on the liquor’s strength and character.

3. How long do Jim Beam Bourbon Balls keep?

If stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these balls can last for up to 5 days without losing their freshness. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months.

4. Can I make these balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling them into balls and serving.

5. Are Jim Beam Bourbon Balls suitable for children?

While these treats do contain bourbon, they’re not suitable for children due to the presence of alcohol. However, if you want to make them kid-friendly, you can omit the bourbon and replace it with an equal amount of milk or water.

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