Whiskey Balls

Prep: 20 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Whiskey Balls are rich, boozy confections combining vanilla wafers, nuts, coconut, and cocoa with a splash of bourbon. These no-bake treats are perfect for parties or as a decadent gift, offering a delightful blend of sweetness, nuttiness, and a hint of whiskey that appeals to dessert lovers and adults alike.

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Ingredients

  • 12 oz. vanilla wafers
  • 1 cup nuts
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup coconut
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa
  • 3 tablespoons light corn syrup
  • 3/4 cup bourbon

Instructions

  1. Crush vanilla wafers, nuts, and coconut in a blender until finely ground.
  2. Mix all crushed ingredients with powdered sugar, cocoa, and light corn syrup until well combined.
  3. Form the mixture into small balls.
  4. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal texture, ensure the vanilla wafers are crushed finely, as larger pieces can make rolling difficult. If you prefer a different flavor, try using crushed graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers. You can also experiment with different nuts; walnuts or pecans work well. For a vegan version, substitute the bourbon with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative and ensure your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

Whiskey balls make a delightful treat for holiday gatherings or parties. Serve them alongside Hot Or Mulled Cider for a festive pairing. They also go well with coffee or tea. For a decorative touch, consider placing them on a platter with fresh fruit or nuts for an appealing presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover whiskey balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Whiskey Balls contains roughly 161 calories, with 1g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.

161 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.2g 2% DV
Total Fat 4g 5% DV
Carbs 31.8g 12% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 24.4g 49% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 39.9mg 2% DV
Potassium 83.5mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 5.1mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1mcg
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 8.8mg 1% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 whiskey balls in advance?

Yes, whiskey balls can be made ahead of time. In fact, allowing them to sit for a day enhances their flavor as the ingredients meld together. Just store them properly in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to serve.

What can I use instead of bourbon?

If you want to avoid alcohol, you can use a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or even flavored syrups like maple or caramel to maintain sweetness while changing the flavor profile.

How do I make these gluten-free?

To make whiskey balls gluten-free, substitute the vanilla wafers with gluten-free cookies or crushed gluten-free graham crackers. Always check the labels on your other ingredients, like powdered sugar, to ensure they are gluten-free.

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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