Bourbon Balls
Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
- 1 cup confectioners powdered sugar
- 2 cups brown pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/3 cup KARO corn syrup
- Powdered sugar or Hershey's cocoa for rolling
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the vanilla wafers in a Ziploc bag. Using a rolling pin, crush the cookies until they reach a fine crumb consistency, or use your hand and smash the cookies until well crushed.
- In a large bowl, combine the crushed wafers with the confectioners sugar, chopped pecans, bourbon, and corn syrup. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Roll the mixture into small balls about the size of a large grape (roughly 1 inch in diameter). If the mixture gets too dry and won’t hold together, add a little more corn syrup, one teaspoon at a time.
- Roll the balls in powdered sugar or cocoa powder until completely coated. Store in an airtight container in a cool place until ready to eat. These keep for up to 2 weeks and make a great gift.
Common Problems and Solutions
Q: Why are my bourbon balls too dry and crumbly?
A: Add more corn syrup, one teaspoon at a time, until the mixture holds together when rolled. The moisture content can vary depending on how finely crushed your wafers are.
Q: Can I taste the bourbon in these?
A: Yes, you'll get a subtle bourbon flavor. If you want a stronger bourbon taste, you can add an extra tablespoon, but don't add too much or the mixture won't hold together.
Q: How long do bourbon balls need to set before eating?
A: They're ready to eat immediately after rolling, but they taste even better after sitting for 24 hours as the flavors meld together.
Tips and Techniques
For the best texture, crush the vanilla wafers to a fine, uniform crumb. The finer the crumb, the smoother your bourbon balls will be. These actually improve with age—store them in an airtight container for a day or two before serving to let the flavors develop.
Ingredient Substitutions
- bourbon whiskey: rum or brandy
- vanilla wafers: graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies
- pecans: walnuts or almonds
Equipment Needed
- Ziploc bag and rolling pin (or food processor)
- Large mixing bowl
- Airtight container for storage
Historical Context
Bourbon balls are a classic Southern confection that became especially popular in Kentucky bourbon country. They’re a staple at Southern holiday gatherings, Christmas cookie exchanges, and are often given as homemade gifts throughout Louisiana and the South.
