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Easy No-Bake Kentucky Bourbon Balls

A stack of delicious, dark bourbon balls rolled in shredded coconut, sitting on a light plate near a window.
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Make these classic Southern bourbon balls without turning on your oven. These rich, boozy chocolate pecan balls come together quickly and are perfect for holiday parties or gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers (about 150 grams)
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup bourbon (use your favorite Kentucky bourbon)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Extra confectioners’ sugar or cocoa powder for rolling

Instructions

  1. Place the crushed vanilla wafers, chopped pecans, 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, and cocoa powder into a large mixing bowl. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are evenly combined.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the bourbon, honey, and vanilla extract until the honey dissolves slightly.
  3. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Mix everything thoroughly with a sturdy spoon or clean hands until a stiff dough forms.
  4. Place the dough in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This makes rolling easier.
  5. Prepare a shallow dish with extra confectioners’ sugar or cocoa powder for coating.
  6. Scoop out small amounts of the chilled dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them firmly between your palms into smooth balls.
  7. Roll each ball completely in the coating mixture until fully covered.
  8. Place the finished bourbon balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  9. Refrigerate the bourbon balls for at least 1 hour before serving to allow them to set completely.

Notes

  • For a smoother texture, pulse the vanilla wafers and pecans in a food processor until they resemble fine crumbs before mixing with the other dry ingredients.
  • If you prefer a stronger boozy flavor, you can slightly reduce the honey and add a touch more bourbon, but be careful not to make the mixture too wet.
  • These make excellent make-ahead desserts; they store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://gourmetgaze.com/easy-no-bake-bourbon-balls-recipe/