These classic bourbon balls are a rich, no-bake dessert that blends smooth bourbon, buttery sweetness, crunchy pecans, and a dark chocolate coating. They’re small, elegant treats with bold flavor, perfect for holidays, celebrations, or anytime you want an indulgent bite without turning on the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bourbon balls are easy to prepare with no baking required, making them ideal for busy days or warm kitchens. The flavors deepen as they chill, giving you a dessert that actually improves with time. They’re perfect for gifting, entertaining, or making ahead, and each bite delivers a balanced combination of sweetness, nuttiness, and chocolate richness.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 1/4 cups finely chopped pecans, divided
1/4 cup bourbon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 pound dark chocolate candy coating, melted
Directions
Combine 1 cup of the finely chopped pecans with the bourbon in a medium bowl. Cover and let the mixture stand for at least 8 hours or overnight so the nuts fully absorb the liquid.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the confectioners’ sugar, adding the sugar about 1/4 cup at a time. Continue mixing until the mixture looks crumbly and evenly combined.
Stir the bourbon-soaked pecans, along with any remaining liquid, into the butter and sugar mixture until fully incorporated.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for about 45 minutes, or until it is firm enough to handle. Once chilled, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Refrigerate again for about 1 hour, until firm.
Dip each chilled ball into the melted dark chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place the coated balls back onto the lined baking sheets. Sprinkle the tops with the remaining 1/4 cup of finely chopped pecans. Let stand until the chocolate is fully set.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 36 bourbon balls.
Preparation time: about 20 minutes (active)
Chilling and soaking time: about 10 hours
Total time: approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes
Variations
For a no-chocolate version, skip the coating and roll the chilled balls in confectioners’ sugar or coarse sugar instead.
Use semi-sweet chocolate candy coating if you prefer a sweeter, milder chocolate flavor.
Add a small pinch of sea salt on top after dipping for a sweet-and-salty contrast.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with apple juice or apple cider, keeping the same measurement.
Storage/Reheating
Store bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw frozen bourbon balls in the refrigerator before serving. No reheating is required.
FAQs
Do bourbon balls need to be refrigerated?
Yes, refrigeration helps them stay firm and keeps the butter and chocolate stable.
Can I make bourbon balls ahead of time?
Absolutely. They are ideal for making several days or even weeks in advance.
Will the alcohol cook out?
No, this is a no-bake recipe, so the alcohol flavor remains.
Can I reduce the amount of bourbon?
Yes, you can reduce it, but replace the missing liquid with juice to maintain the correct texture.
What type of chocolate works best?
Dark chocolate candy coating works best, but semi-sweet coating is also a good option.
How do I get evenly sized bourbon balls?
Using a small cookie scoop helps portion the mixture evenly.
Can I skip soaking the pecans?
Soaking is recommended for the best flavor, but you can shorten the time if needed.
Are bourbon balls very sweet?
They are rich and sweet, but the bourbon and pecans help balance the sugar.
Can I use other nuts?
Yes, finely chopped walnuts can be used, though pecans are traditional.
How long do they need to set after dipping?
They usually set within 30 to 60 minutes at room temperature, or faster in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Bourbon balls are a timeless no-bake treat with deep flavor and simple preparation. Whether you’re making them for a holiday tray, a special occasion, or just to keep on hand for a sweet indulgence, they’re an easy and impressive dessert that never goes out of style.
Classic bourbon balls are rich, no-bake treats made with bourbon-soaked pecans, butter, sugar, and a dark chocolate coating. Perfect for holidays or gifting, they’re easy to make and full of bold flavor.
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups finely chopped pecans, divided
1/4 cup bourbon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 pound dark chocolate candy coating, melted
Instructions
Combine 1 cup chopped pecans with bourbon in a bowl. Cover and let soak for at least 8 hours or overnight.
In a large bowl, cream softened butter with confectioners’ sugar, adding sugar gradually until evenly mixed.
Stir in the bourbon-soaked pecans and any liquid until fully incorporated.
Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 45 minutes until firm. Shape into 1-inch balls and place on wax paper-lined baking sheets. Refrigerate again for 1 hour.
Dip each chilled ball into melted dark chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Return to lined sheets.
Sprinkle tops with remaining 1/4 cup chopped pecans and let stand until chocolate is set.
Notes
Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized balls.
Roll in powdered sugar instead of chocolate for a quicker version.
Substitute bourbon with apple juice for a non-alcoholic variation.
Dark chocolate balances the sweetness best, but semi-sweet works too.
