kentucky bourbon balls recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best kentucky bourbon balls recipe

I’m so excited to share my Kentucky bourbon balls recipe with you all.

This classic Southern treat has been a staple at family gatherings and holiday parties for years, and for good reason – it’s incredibly easy to make and tastes amazing.

The combination of rich, buttery flavor from the bourbon-infused chocolate and the crunch of the pecans is simply irresistible.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, measuring out the ingredients and stirring the mix.

It’s a fun activity that gets them involved in cooking and teaches them about the importance of following a recipe.

Kentucky Bourbon Balls

Kentucky Bourbon Balls

4.7 from 1285 votes

These classic Kentucky bourbon balls combine crushed vanilla wafers, toasted pecans, and a generous splash of bourbon for a boozy, no-bake treat. Coated in a dusting of powdered sugar, they are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 20 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Bourbon Balls

1 cup finely crushed vanilla wafer cookies (about 30 wafers)
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1 cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup bourbon
2 tablespoons light corn syrup

👨‍🍳Directions

1Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
2Let them cool completely, then chop finely.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, toasted pecans, 1 cup powdered sugar, and cocoa powder.
4Stir until evenly mixed.
5Add the bourbon and light corn syrup to the dry ingredients.
6Mix thoroughly with a spatula until the mixture holds together when pressed.
7Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to shape.
8Place additional powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
9Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls.
10Roll each ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated.
11Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Food processor or rolling pin
Small cookie scoop or spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 40mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For a stronger bourbon flavor, let the balls rest in an airtight container for 24 hours before serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Watch Video Of How Kentucky Bourbon Balls Works

These Kentucky bourbon balls are a perfect treat for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or just need a sweet pick-me-up on a busy day. They’re also super easy to store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.

To reheat, simply let them come to room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Serve chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra-special treat.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Bourbon Balls

1. Can I make these bourbon balls without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the bourbon with apple juice or a non-alcoholic bourbon flavoring. The taste will be different but still sweet and nutty. Just use the same amount as the bourbon called for in the recipe.

2. How long do these bourbon balls last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they will stay fresh for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving.

3. Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely, you can swap pecans for walnuts or almonds. Just chop them finely so they mix well with the other ingredients. Pecans give the most traditional flavor, but any nut works.

4. Do I need to use a specific brand of bourbon?

No, any bourbon you like will work. I usually use a mid-range bourbon like Jim Beam or Maker’s Mark. Avoid using very expensive bourbon since the flavor will be masked by the chocolate and sugar.

5. Why did my bourbon balls turn out too dry?

This can happen if you add too many dry ingredients or not enough bourbon. Make sure to measure the vanilla wafers and pecans correctly. If the mixture seems dry, add a tablespoon of bourbon or milk until it holds together when pressed.

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