Julia Child Bourbon Balls

Julia Child Bourbon Balls

This delightful no-bake Bourbon Balls by Julia Child dessert combines rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and a hint of bourbon for a flavorful treat. It’s a quick and simple recipe that uses common pantry ingredients, making it both convenient and delicious. Perfect for gifting or enjoying at gatherings, these bourbon balls offer a sweet indulgence with a spirited twist.​

Ingredients Needed

  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup (4 oz / 115g) powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) bourbon
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) light corn syrup / golden syrup
  • 2 cups (8 oz / 225g) crushed vanilla wafers (about 40 wafers)
  • 1 cup (4 oz / 115g) finely chopped pecans or walnuts

How To Make Bourbon Balls

  1. Mix the dry ingredients: Sift the cocoa powder and 1 cup of powdered sugar into a medium bowl.
  2. Add liquids: Stir in the bourbon and corn syrup until well combined.
  3. Incorporate the base: Mix in the crushed vanilla wafers and chopped nuts, stirring until evenly blended.
  4. Shape the balls: Roll the mixture into 3/4-inch balls, then coat them in powdered sugar.
  5. Chill and set: Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving. Store for up to 2 weeks.
Julia Child Bourbon Balls
Julia Child Bourbon Balls

Recipe Tips

  • Use fresh vanilla wafers: Stale wafers can make the texture dry. Crush them finely for a smoother mixture.
  • Toast the nuts before chopping: This brings out a richer, deeper flavor. Let them cool before mixing.
  • Let the mixture sit before rolling: Resting for 5-10 minutes helps the flavors blend and makes rolling easier.
  • Roll in powdered sugar twice: First right after shaping, then again before serving for a better coating.
  • Store properly for the best taste: Keep them in an airtight container so they don’t dry out or absorb fridge odors.

How To Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Place leftover bourbon balls in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be stored this way for up to two weeks.​
  • Freeze: Place leftover bourbon balls in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to three months. To serve, thaw them in the refrigerator until they reach the desired consistency.​

Nutrition Fact

Serving Size: 3 pieces (45g)​

  • Calories: 220​
  • Total Fat: 10g​
  • Saturated Fat: 5g​
  • Cholesterol: 5mg​
  • Sodium: 15mg​
  • Total Carbohydrate: 29g​
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g​
  • Sugars: 26g​
  • Protein: 2g

Try More Recipes:

    Julia Child Bourbon Balls

    Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 10 minutesCook time: minutesRest time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutesServings:24 servingsCalories:220 kcal Best Season:Suitable throughout the year

    Description

    This delightful no-bake Bourbon Balls by Julia Child dessert combines rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and a hint of bourbon for a flavorful treat. It’s a quick and simple recipe that uses common pantry ingredients, making it both convenient and delicious. Perfect for gifting or enjoying at gatherings, these bourbon balls offer a sweet indulgence with a spirited twist.​

    Ingredients

    Instructions

    1. Mix the dry ingredients: Sift the cocoa powder and 1 cup of powdered sugar into a medium bowl.
    2. Add liquids: Stir in the bourbon and corn syrup until well combined.
    3. Incorporate the base: Mix in the crushed vanilla wafers and chopped nuts, stirring until evenly blended.
    4. Shape the balls: Roll the mixture into 3/4-inch balls, then coat them in powdered sugar.
    5. Chill and set: Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving. Store for up to 2 weeks.

    Notes

    • Use fresh vanilla wafers: Stale wafers can make the texture dry. Crush them finely for a smoother mixture.
    • Toast the nuts before chopping: This brings out a richer, deeper flavor. Let them cool before mixing.
    • Let the mixture sit before rolling: Resting for 5-10 minutes helps the flavors blend and makes rolling easier.
    • Roll in powdered sugar twice: First right after shaping, then again before serving for a better coating.
    • Store properly for the best taste: Keep them in an airtight container so they don’t dry out or absorb fridge odors.
    Keywords:Julia Child Bourbon Balls

    Mohamed Shili

    Hi, I'm Mohamed Shili, a food writer who loves everything about cooking. At Delish Sides, my goal is to share interesting and helpful information about food. Come join me on this food journey. With my knowledge and your love of food, we're going to have a tasty time together!