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My Grandmother’s Bourbon Balls Recipe

4.8 from 111 reviews

My Grandmother’s Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining crushed vanilla wafers, chopped walnuts, rich sweetened condensed milk, and high-quality bourbon. Rolled in powdered sugar, these bite-sized balls make a perfect holiday snack or party favor with a smooth, boozy flavor and a sweet, nutty texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 cups finely crushed vanilla wafers (about one 11-ounce box)
  • 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
  • Powdered sugar, for rolling (about 1 cup)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/3 cup high-quality bourbon (Woodford Reserve or Maker’s Mark recommended)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the finely crushed vanilla wafers and chopped walnuts thoroughly. Add the sweetened condensed milk and bourbon, then blend all the ingredients well until fully combined into a dough-like consistency.
  2. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for about 1 hour to firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
  3. Prepare Powdered Sugar: Pour approximately 1 cup of powdered sugar into a shallow dish. This will be used to coat the bourbon balls and prevent sticking.
  4. Shape the Bourbon Balls: Dip the palms of your hands into the powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Using a teaspoon, scoop portions of the chilled mixture and roll each into a round ball, coating it thoroughly in powdered sugar as you go.
  5. Store Properly: Place the bourbon balls into an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. They taste best cold and will keep well in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Notes

  • Use a high-quality Kentucky bourbon that you enjoy drinking, as the bourbon flavor is prominent in the recipe. Recommended brands include Woodford Reserve or Maker’s Mark.
  • Make sure the vanilla wafers are finely crushed for the best texture.
  • These treats are best served chilled and can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
  • You can adjust the bourbon amount slightly according to taste, but too much can make it difficult to roll the balls.

Keywords: bourbon balls, no-bake dessert, bourbon recipes, holiday treats, Kentucky bourbon, party snacks