Print

Kentucky Bourbon Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 51 reviews

Kentucky Bourbon Balls are delightful bite-sized treats combining the rich flavors of vanilla wafers, chopped pecans, and Kentucky bourbon, all rolled in a sweet dusting of confectioners’ sugar. These no-bake confections are perfect for holiday gifts or indulgent snacks, offering a beautifully balanced flavor with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups finely crushed vanilla wafers (about 4 cups whole vanilla wafers)
  • 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
  • 1/3 cup + 2 tablespoons Kentucky bourbon
  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar (additional, for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Combine bourbon and sugar: In a mixing bowl, pour in the Kentucky bourbon and 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar. Stir them together until well blended to create a smooth base.
  2. Add corn syrup: Stir in 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup into the bourbon and sugar mixture until fully incorporated. This adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: Add the finely crushed vanilla wafers and finely chopped pecans to the wet mixture. Stir thoroughly until the mixture comes together and is well combined.
  4. Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes. This chilling firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle and shape.
  5. Form the bourbon balls: Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out small amounts of the chilled mixture and roll them between your hands to form smooth, bite-sized balls.
  6. Roll in confectioners’ sugar: Roll each bourbon ball in the additional 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar until fully coated, which adds a sweet finishing touch and prevents sticking.
  7. Store: Place the finished bourbon balls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to two weeks, allowing flavors to mature and meld beautifully.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use a high-quality Kentucky bourbon.
  • Crush vanilla wafers finely for a smoother texture.
  • Chilling the mixture is essential to help shape the balls properly.
  • Store bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
  • This recipe makes a great homemade gift, so consider packaging them in decorative tins or boxes.

Keywords: Kentucky Bourbon Balls, bourbon, no-bake dessert, holiday treats, pecans, vanilla wafers

Find it online: https://amayaharis.com/kentucky-bourbon-balls-recipe/