Wanda'S Bourbon Balls

Prep: 20 min Serves: 20 Cuisine: American

Indulge in these rich, chocolatey bourbon balls with a hint of vanilla and nuts, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet, adult treat.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups finely crushed vanilla wafers
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
  • 3 tablespoons corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup bourbon

Instructions

  1. Mix wafer crumbs, cocoa, powdered sugar, and chopped walnuts in a bowl.
  2. Add corn syrup and bourbon; mix well until combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
  4. Roll the balls in powdered sugar to coat.
  5. Cover and store for a day or so to ripen flavors.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you want to make these bourbon balls non-alcoholic, substitute the bourbon with a splash of vanilla extract or a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative. Rolling the balls in powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps prevent them from sticking together. For an extra crunch, try adding toasted pecans instead of walnuts.

Serving Suggestions

These bourbon balls make an excellent addition to holiday dessert trays and pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Angel Cookies(Lo-Cal) or as part of a dessert buffet at gatherings. They can also be garnished with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or additional powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store the bourbon balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them chilled, simply take them out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to allow them to soften slightly.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Wanda'S Bourbon Balls contains roughly 215 calories, with 3g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

215 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3g 6% DV
Total Fat 6.1g 8% DV
Carbs 39.4g 14% DV
Fiber 4.5g 16% DV
Sugar 28.9g 58% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 49.6mg 2% DV
Potassium 322.7mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 6.1mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 22.6mg 2% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 these bourbon balls ahead of time?

Yes, bourbon balls can be made ahead of time and actually benefit from resting for a day or two, allowing the flavors to meld together. Prepare them a few days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just remember to roll them in powdered sugar before serving for the best texture.

What can I substitute for the walnuts?

If you're allergic to nuts or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute walnuts with finely chopped pecans or even crushed graham crackers for a different texture. For a nut-free version, use additional crushed vanilla wafers or oats, keeping in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.

How should I serve bourbon balls?

Bourbon balls can be served as a standalone treat or as part of a larger dessert spread. They pair well with coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine. For an extra indulgence, consider drizzling them with melted chocolate or serving alongside other desserts like brownies or cookies.

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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