The Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe is a delightful and nostalgic treat that captures the charm of classic southern flavors in every bite. These bite-sized delights blend the warmth of bourbon with crunchy pecans, smooth cream cheese, and the subtle sweetness of powdered sugar, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, gifts, or a cozy night in. With just a handful of simple ingredients and no baking required, this recipe is as fun to make as it is delicious to eat. Let me walk you through how to create these melt-in-your-mouth bourbon balls that are sure to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is simple yet crucial because each one plays a special role in creating the perfect flavor and texture balance. From the crunchy pecans to the creamy cheese, every component shines in the final result.
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs: Adds a buttery crunch and helps bind the mixture together.
- 1/2 cup pecan crumbs: Provides nutty richness and a satisfying texture contrast.
- 2 oz cream cheese: Brings smooth creaminess that makes the balls irresistibly soft.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the mixture gently and enhances the overall mouthfeel.
- 1 tbsp flavored tea: Adds a subtle layer of aromatic depth; choose your favorite flavor for a personalized touch.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A classic flavor booster that rounds out the bourbon’s warmth perfectly.
- Powdered sugar (for rolling): For coating the balls, lending extra sweetness and a beautiful finish.
How to Make Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Crumbs
Start by pulsing the graham crackers in your food processor until you get fine, sandy crumbs. Then add the pecans and pulse just enough to mix them without turning everything into flour. This mixture forms the base texture that balances crunch and softness in your bourbon balls.
Step 2: Blend in Cream Cheese and Flavors
Next, add the cream cheese, powdered sugar, flavored tea, and vanilla extract to the food processor. Pulse everything together until the mixture is smooth and comes together easily. The cream cheese adds moisture and a luscious tang, while the tea and vanilla provide those signature, inviting aromas.
Step 3: Shape Your Bourbon Balls
Now the fun part: use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls about the size of a walnut. You should be able to make approximately 15. Placing them on a wax paper-lined tray keeps them from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 4: Add the Final Touch
To finish, roll each ball in powdered sugar. This step not only adds a pretty snowy coating but also enhances the sweetness and creates a pleasing texture contrast. It makes these bourbon balls look as fantastic as they taste!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra dose of elegance, sprinkle some finely chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of cocoa powder alongside the powdered sugar coating. Fresh mint leaves can also brighten the presentation and add a refreshing aroma that contrasts beautifully with the rich bourbon flavor.
Side Dishes
Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea, making them ideal for an afternoon treat or after-dinner indulgence. For a celebratory touch, serve alongside a glass of bourbon or a sparkling cocktail to echo the flavors in the balls.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by arranging the bourbon balls in mini cupcake liners or on a decorative platter with edible flowers for a festive look. You could even gift them in a charming box tied with rustic twine, making them perfect for sharing the warmth of this recipe with loved ones.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store the bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to one week while maintaining their soft texture and robust flavors.
Freezing
These treats freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months and thawed overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Since bourbon balls are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, there’s no need for reheating. Simply allow them to come to room temperature after removing from the fridge to fully appreciate their creamy, rich texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut in this Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and add a wonderful flavor, walnuts or almonds can also be used based on your preference or what you have available. Just chop them finely for the best texture.
What kind of flavored tea works best in this recipe?
Black teas with robust flavors or chai blends are excellent choices as they complement the bourbon and add a nuanced spice. Feel free to experiment with other teas like earl grey or even fruity varieties to make the recipe your own.
Is there a non-alcoholic alternative to bourbon in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute bourbon with vanilla extract or a non-alcoholic bourbon flavoring. Keep in mind that the signature warmth and aroma of authentic bourbon will be milder or absent, but the treats will still be delicious.
Can I make these without a food processor?
While a food processor speeds up the process and ensures a smooth mixture, you can crush the graham crackers and nuts by hand or with a rolling pin, then mix everything thoroughly by hand until well combined.
How long do these bourbon balls last once made?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the bourbon balls will remain fresh and tasty for about a week. Beyond that, they might start to lose some of their texture and flavor intensity.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the comfort and delight packed into this Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe. Whether you’re looking to impress holiday guests or simply craving a sweet bite with a boozy twist, these bourbon balls deliver on flavor and ease. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—once you do, it’s sure to become a treasured treat you’ll want to make again and again.
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Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Description
Old Fashioned Bourbon Balls are a delightful no-bake treat featuring a smooth cream cheese base blended with graham cracker and pecan crumbs, subtly infused with flavored tea and vanilla. These bite-sized balls are rolled in powdered sugar, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup pecan crumbs
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Wet Ingredients
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1 tbsp flavored tea
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the crumb mixture: Pulse graham crackers in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Add pecan crumbs and pulse until well combined, ensuring even texture.
- Add creamy ingredients: To the food processor, add cream cheese, powdered sugar, flavored tea, and vanilla extract. Process the mixture until it becomes smooth and uniformly blended.
- Form the balls: Use clean hands to scoop and roll the mixture into small balls, about 15 in total. Place them carefully on a wax paper-lined tray to prevent sticking.
- Coat the balls: Roll each ball lightly in powdered sugar to add a sweet finishing touch and enhance presentation. Refrigerate before serving if desired.
Notes
- Flavored tea contributes subtle aromatic notes that can be varied based on preference; choose a robust flavor like Earl Grey or chai for best results.
- Keep the balls refrigerated to maintain firmness and freshness.
- These bourbon balls do not contain actual bourbon in this recipe but can be added for an alcoholic version.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to facilitate smooth blending.
