Introduction

Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat that combines the richness of cream cheese, the crunch of pecans, and the warmth of bourbon whiskey. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet adult indulgence, these bite-sized confections are easy to make and sure to impress.

A close-up view of several small, round cookies with a light, cracked texture covered in a thin layer of white powdered sugar. One cookie is broken in half, showing a soft, crumbly light brown interior with bits of pecans visible. The cookies are stacked in a loose pile on a white marbled surface, with some pecans scattered nearby. The overall look is cozy and rustic. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup graham cracker crumbs
½ cup pecan crumbs
2 oz cream cheese
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional ¼ cup powdered sugar for coating (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the cookie crumbs by pulsing the graham crackers in a food processor until fine. Add the pecans and pulse again until combined and crumbly.
Step 2: Add the cream cheese, powdered sugar, bourbon, and vanilla to the food processor. Process until the mixture is well combined and holds together.
Step 3: Form about 15 small balls from the mixture and place them on a waxed paper-lined tray.
Step 4 (optional – 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 the bourbon balls into the chocolate, then return to the tray.
Step 5 (optional – Cinnamon Sugar Coating): Mix ½ teaspoon cinnamon with ¼ cup sugar. Roll the bourbon balls in this mixture instead of chocolate coating, if desired.
Step 6: Refrigerate the coated or uncoated bourbon balls until firm. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Tips & Variations

Use toasted pecans for added depth of flavor and crunch.
Try different coatings like crushed nuts, cocoa powder, or melted dark chocolate for variety.
If you prefer a stronger bourbon taste, increase the bourbon amount to 1.5 tablespoons.
To make these nut-free, substitute pecan crumbs with additional graham cracker crumbs or crushed pretzels.

Storage

Store bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If coated in chocolate, keep them refrigerated to maintain the coating’s firmness. To serve, let sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier eating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of small round cookies covered in white powdered sugar, creating a soft, powdery texture on their surface. The cookies are placed on a white plate, with whole pecans scattered around them, adding a rich brown color and a smooth, ridged texture. The background is a white marbled texture, which contrasts nicely with the warm tones of the pecans and the light tones of the cookies, emphasizing their rough, crinkly surfaces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make bourbon balls ahead of time?

Yes, bourbon balls actually benefit from sitting in the fridge for a day or two, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. They keep well for up to two weeks refrigerated.

Can I use a different type of alcohol?

Absolutely! While bourbon is traditional, you can substitute with whiskey, rum, or even brandy to suit your taste preference.