Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (180 g) crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers (about 2 sleeves)
  • 1 ½ cups (120 g) finely chopped pecans or walnuts
  • ½ cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) bourbon whiskey
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, for rolling
  • 1 cup (120 g) finely chopped nuts
  • ½ cup (45 g) cocoa powder (optional alternative coating)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare ingredients by crushing vanilla wafers using a food processor or rolling pin, and finely chop the nuts.
  2. Mix the crushed wafers, chopped nuts, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add the softened butter, bourbon whiskey, and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is evenly combined.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to chill the mixture and make shaping easier.
  5. Form 1-inch balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop.
  6. Roll each ball in powdered sugar, finely chopped nuts, or cocoa powder until evenly coated.
  7. Place the coated bourbon balls on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set.
  8. Serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.