Walnut Bourbon Balls

Prep: 20 min Serves: 48 Cuisine: American

Walnut Bourbon Balls are rich, bite-sized confections blending the flavors of toasted walnuts, cocoa, and bourbon. Rolled in sugar, they offer a sweet, boozy treat perfect for parties or gift-giving. Their crunchy texture and decadent taste make them a favorite among dessert lovers and bourbon enthusiasts.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
  • 1 cup confectioners sugar
  • 2 tbsp cocoa
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/3 cup bourbon
  • 3 tbsp corn syrup
  • granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients except granulated sugar until well combined.
  2. Roll the mixture into small balls using a melon scoop or your hands.
  3. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
  4. Store in an airtight container.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the bourbon with a flavored liqueur like coffee or hazelnut. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with strong brewed coffee or a nut extract. When mixing, ensure the ingredients are evenly combined for consistent flavor in each ball. If you find the mixture too sticky, chill it for a bit before rolling.

Serving Suggestions

Walnut bourbon balls make a delightful addition to holiday cookie platters or as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a rich dessert wine or a glass of bourbon for an indulgent experience. For a festive touch, garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chopped walnuts before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store walnut bourbon balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to let them thaw in the fridge before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Walnut Bourbon Balls contains roughly 67 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.

67 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.4g 3% DV
Total Fat 2.4g 3% DV
Carbs 10.9g 4% DV
Fiber 2.4g 8% DV
Sugar 5.1g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 4.7mg
Potassium 164.3mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 0.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.1mcg
Vitamin C 4.6mg 5% DV
Calcium 11mg 1% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
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 use a different type of nut in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts, depending on your preference. Just ensure that the nuts are finely chopped to maintain the right texture for the balls.

How can I make these bourbon balls more chocolatey?

To enhance the chocolate flavor, increase the cocoa powder to 1/4 cup or add mini chocolate chips to the mixture. This will give you a richer, more decadent treat that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

Are walnut bourbon balls suitable for vegan diets?

To make walnut bourbon balls vegan, substitute the corn syrup with maple syrup or agave nectar, and ensure that the bourbon used is vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a delightful treat without compromising dietary preferences.

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →