Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for cookie exchanges or cozy holiday gatherings, you’ve come to the right place! This Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls recipe is not just a nostalgic favorite; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. Imagine the joy of sharing these sweet, no-bake delights with friends and family. They bring a touch of warmth and comfort to any occasion, making them a beloved addition to dessert tables.

What I adore about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a batch of cookie balls that will impress everyone. Plus, they are perfect for busy weeknights or as a fun project with your kids in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these treats ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love rolling these into balls—it’s a fun way to get them involved in the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These little delights keep well in the fridge, making them great for preparing ahead of time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of graham crackers and pecans creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls recipe is part of the fun! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, making it easy to get started.

For the Cookie Balls

• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cups pecan crumbs
• 2 oz cream cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp bourbon barley tea
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make these cookie balls your own.

• Add Some Spice: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Nutty Twist: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
• Chocolate Coating: Roll the finished balls in melted dark chocolate for an indulgent treat.
• Dried Fruit Addition: Mix in some finely chopped dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture.

How to Make Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cookie Crumbs

Start by pulsing your graham crackers in a food processor until they become fine crumbs. This step is key because the texture will help bind everything together. Add the pecans and pulse again until combined. The nutty flavor adds depth to your bourbon balls!

Step 2: Mix It All Together

Next, add the cream cheese, powdered sugar, bourbon barley tea, and vanilla into the food processor. Process everything until it’s well combined. This mixture is what gives your bourbon balls that creamy richness that melts in your mouth—don’t skip this part!

Step 3: Form the Balls

Now comes the fun part! Use your hands to form small balls from the mixture—about 15 should do it! Place them on a waxed paper-lined tray. Rolling them will make them nice and round, plus it’s an enjoyable way to finish off this simple recipe.

And there you have it! A delicious batch of Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls ready to be enjoyed by all. Perfect for any occasion or just as a sweet treat at home. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe

Making these delightful Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls is a breeze, especially when you follow these simple tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cream cheese and high-quality pecans will enhance the flavor of your bourbon balls, making them richer and more enjoyable.
• Chill the mixture: After combining all the ingredients, letting the mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes makes it easier to roll into perfect balls and helps them hold their shape.
• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to play around with different extracts like almond or hazelnut to add a unique twist to your bourbon balls.
• Roll in powdered sugar: Rolling the balls in powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives them a lovely, snowy appearance that’s perfect for festive gatherings.
• Store properly: Keep your bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh longer and develop even better flavors over time!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe

These no-bake treats are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving! Here are some creative ideas to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top will add an elegant touch and a rich flavor that complements the sweetness.
• Chopped nuts: Scatter some finely chopped nuts on top for added crunch and a lovely visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fruit platter: A vibrant array of seasonal fruits like berries, grapes, and citrus can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bourbon balls.
• Cheese board: Pairing these sweet treats with a selection of mild cheeses creates an interesting balance of flavors that your guests will love.
• Spiced chai tea: Serving these bourbon balls alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea can enhance the cozy vibe, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
• Coffee or espresso: The deep flavors of coffee or espresso complement the sweetness and nuttiness of the bourbon balls, making for a delightful pairing.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dessert table! Enjoy sharing them with family and friends this holiday season!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making your holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges that much easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover bourbon balls in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• For best flavor, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the bourbon balls on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving!

Reheating

• These bourbon balls are served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.
• If desired, you can slightly warm them in the microwave for a few seconds, but be cautious not to melt them.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use a different type of tea instead of bourbon barley tea in this Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute bourbon barley tea with another flavored tea such as chai or even a herbal tea. Just ensure that it’s caffeine-free if that’s what you prefer.

How long does it take to make the Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe?

This recipe is quick and easy, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for when you’re short on time but want to impress your guests!

Can I use a nut other than pecans in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to replace pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference or availability. Just chop them finely for the best texture.

Are these bourbon balls suitable for kids?

While there’s no actual alcohol in this recipe, they do contain bourbon barley tea which gives a unique flavor. It’s mild enough for kids, but if you’re concerned, you can omit it entirely and use more vanilla instead!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls recipe! It’s not just a treat; it’s a sweet reminder of holiday cheer and togetherness. Whether you’re sharing these bites with family or friends, every little ball holds warmth and love. Enjoy creating these delicious treats, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!