Bourbon Balls(Party Food)

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

Sweet and boozy bite-sized treats with chocolate, vanilla wafers, pecans, and bourbon, perfect for parties and festivities, mellowing beautifully over time.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. cocoa
  • 2 1/2 c. finely crushed vanilla wafers
  • 1 c. chopped pecans
  • 3 Tbsp. white Karo syrup
  • 1/4 c. bourbon

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients and roll into balls.
  2. Roll balls in granulated sugar.
  3. Store in an airtight container for at least 1 week before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or using dark cocoa instead of regular cocoa. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Ensure the bourbon is of good quality for the best taste. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, use a bourbon-flavored extract or syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Bourbon balls make an excellent addition to any holiday party or gathering, pairing beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate. They can also be served alongside a sweet punch like Economical Party Punch for a festive touch. Consider displaying them on a platter with other treats like cookies or fudge for a delightful dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store the bourbon balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a month. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Bourbon Balls(Party Food) contains roughly 1357 calories, with 24g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (125% of the Daily Value), iron (70% of the Daily Value), and protein (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 35g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1357 kcal 68% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 24.2g 48% DV
Total Fat 123.3g 100% DV
Carbs 56.1g 20% DV
Fiber 34.9g 100% DV
Sugar 9.7g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 41.1mg 2% DV
Potassium 2127.7mg 45% DV
Cholesterol 3.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 5.1mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1.7mg 2% DV
Calcium 181.8mg 14% DV
Iron 12.7mg 70% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make bourbon balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making bourbon balls a week in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store them properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The longer they sit, the more pronounced the bourbon flavor will be.

How should I roll the balls to prevent sticking?

To prevent sticking while rolling the balls, lightly dust your hands with granulated sugar or cocoa powder. This will help keep the mixture from adhering to your hands. You can also chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling.

Can I use a different type of alcohol?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of alcohol if you prefer. Rum or whiskey can be great alternatives to bourbon, each providing a unique flavor profile. Keep in mind that the overall taste will change depending on your choice of alcohol.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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