Chocolate Whiskey Balls

3 dozen servings Prep: 30 m Cook: PT0M Total: 30 m Beginner
5.0/5 (2)
Chocolate Whiskey Balls
My mother made these occasionally at Christmas time—a simple no-bake candy with vanilla wafers, ground pecans, whiskey, and cocoa rolled in powdered sugar. Perfect for holiday gift-giving and festive gatherings when you need something sweet with a little kick.

Ingredients

3 dozen servings
  • 1 cup vanilla wafers, ground/crushed
  • 1/4 cup whiskey
  • 1 cup pecans, ground
  • 2 tbsp Karo syrup
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp cocoa

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients well. Knead dough with hands as necessary. Form into small balls and roll in powdered sugar. Store in plastic zippered bag.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my dough too dry and crumbly?

A: Add a touch more Karo syrup or whiskey, a teaspoon at a time, until the mixture holds together when squeezed. The moisture content of the wafers can vary.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! These actually improve after a day or two as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container or zippered bag for up to 2 weeks.

Tips and Techniques

Grind the pecans and vanilla wafers in a food processor for the finest, most uniform texture. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but not be overly wet. These are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges and make wonderful gifts in decorative tins.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • whiskey: bourbon or rum
  • vanilla wafers: graham crackers
  • Karo syrup: honey or maple syrup

Equipment Needed

  • Food processor or blender (for grinding wafers and pecans)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Plastic zippered bag or airtight container

Historical Context

Whiskey balls and bourbon balls became popular throughout the South in the mid-20th century as a grown-up holiday treat. They’re part of the no-bake candy tradition that includes rum balls and date balls, perfect for home cooks who wanted to create special confections without fussing over a candy thermometer.