Looking for an easy, no-bake treat that’s perfect for holiday dessert tables, cookie exchanges, or a simple after-dinner indulgence? These Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls deliver a rich, sweet flavor with a smooth kick of bourbon and a delightful texture. They’re classy, delicious, and can be made in just 15 minutes—no oven required. I remember whipping up a batch of these for a family holiday party, and they were gone before I knew it. The adults couldn’t get enough of the nostalgic, boozy charm!
Why You Will Love Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls
These Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls are the ultimate no-fuss dessert for any occasion.
- No-bake treat: Quick, easy, and perfect when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Boozy twist: A hint of bourbon adds sophistication and a nostalgic old-fashioned flavor.
- Versatile coatings: From powdered sugar to white chocolate, you can make them as fancy or simple as you like.
Ingredient Notes for Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls
Each ingredient adds to the decadent texture and flavor of these Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs (½ cup): The base for the balls, providing structure and a slightly sweet, toasty flavor.
- Pecan Crumbs (½ cup): Adds a nutty richness to complement the bourbon. Pulse pecans in a food processor to create fine crumbs.
- Cream Cheese (2 oz): Softened cream cheese binds everything together and adds creaminess.
- Powdered Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the mixture and keeps the texture smooth.
- Bourbon Whiskey (1 tablespoon): The star of the show—choose a high-quality bourbon for the best flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Balances the bourbon with a sweet, aromatic touch.
Coating Options:
- Powdered Sugar (¼ cup): A classic, snowy finish.
- White Chocolate: Melted for a creamy coating.
- Cinnamon Sugar: A cozy twist with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ cup sugar.
Substitution Tip: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a slightly different nutty flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or small cookie scoop
- Wax paper-lined tray
- Small microwave-safe bowl (for optional chocolate coating)
How to Make Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls
1. Prepare the Crumbs
- Pulse graham crackers in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Add the pecans and pulse again until combined.
2. Combine the Ingredients
- Add softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, bourbon whiskey, and vanilla extract to the food processor.
- Process until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture forms a sticky dough.
3. Form the Balls
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into 15 small, even-sized balls.
- Place the formed balls onto a wax paper-lined tray.
4. Choose Your Coating
- Classic Powdered Sugar: Roll each bourbon ball in powdered sugar until evenly coated.
- White Chocolate Coating: Melt ½ cup of white chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in the microwave, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate and place back on the tray. Chill in the fridge until the chocolate is set.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Combine ½ teaspoon of cinnamon with ¼ cup sugar, and roll the bourbon balls in the mixture for a spiced finish.
5. Chill and Serve
- Place the coated bourbon balls in the refrigerator to set for at least 30 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. Arrange on a platter for a beautiful presentation.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
These Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls are incredibly versatile—customize them to suit your tastes!
- Dark Chocolate Coating: Dip the balls in melted dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Nut-Free: Replace pecans with extra graham cracker crumbs for a nut-free version.
- Boozy Options: Substitute bourbon with rum or brandy for a different twist.
Feel free to experiment with coatings and flavors to make these your own!
Helpful Notes
- Perfect Rolling Tip: Lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar to prevent the mixture from sticking while rolling the balls.
- Bourbon Selection: Choose a smooth bourbon—something you’d enjoy sipping—for the best results.
- Chill Time: Letting the bourbon balls chill for at least 30 minutes ensures they hold their shape and taste even better as the flavors meld together.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Martha Stewart: For an extra festive touch, drizzle the bourbon balls with a bit of melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed pecans.
- Ina Garten: Toast the pecans lightly before pulsing them for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Ree Drummond: Add a pinch of sea salt to the coating for a sweet and salty flavor contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make these bourbon balls without alcohol?
A: Yes! Substitute bourbon with vanilla extract or a splash of apple juice for a kid-friendly version.
Q: Can I use pre-made graham cracker crumbs?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought crumbs save time and work just as well.
Q: How long do bourbon balls last?
A: They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the mixture?
A: Sure! Stir in mini chocolate chips before rolling for a chocolatey twist.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes! Simply double the ingredients to make a larger batch—perfect for sharing during the holidays.
Final Thoughts
These Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls are a sophisticated, no-bake treat that’s perfect for holiday dessert tables, cookie swaps, or gifting to friends and family. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and boozy bite, they’re sure to become a festive favorite. Whip up a batch, experiment with coatings, and enjoy every indulgent bite! Cheers!
