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Irresistible No-Bake Bourbon Balls

no-bake bourbon balls - featured image

A quick and easy no-bake treat combining the rich warmth of bourbon with chocolate and nuts, perfect for gifting or indulging without fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180g) crushed vanilla wafers
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup (100g) finely chopped pecans, plus extra for rolling
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) bourbon
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) light corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Crush the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and gently pounding with a rolling pin (about 5 minutes).
  2. Toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool completely.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well.
  4. Add bourbon, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until the dough is slightly sticky, about 3 minutes. Add more bourbon a teaspoon at a time if too dry.
  5. Fold in the toasted pecans gently to combine evenly.
  6. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 24 pieces). If sticky, dampen hands with cold water.
  7. Roll each ball in extra chopped pecans to coat the exterior.
  8. Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.

Notes

Letting the bourbon balls sit overnight in the fridge mellows flavors and softens texture. Chill hands before rolling to prevent sticking. Toast nuts for enhanced flavor. Can substitute nuts or use gluten-free cookie crumbs for dietary needs. For alcohol-free version, use bourbon-flavored or vanilla extract.

Nutrition

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