Desserts

Bourbon Pecan Balls

Name: Bourbon Pecan Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup finely chopped pecans; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup bourbon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; Additional powdered sugar for rolling

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These bourbon pecan balls are small, tender cookies with a rich nutty crunch and a warm hint of bourbon. They melt in your mouth and dusted with powdered sugar they look festive on a holiday platter. The cocoa adds a gentle chocolate undertone while the pecans give a buttery, toasty bite.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Servings: About 24 balls (1 inch each)
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

(Approximate per serving — 1 ball)

Calories per serving: 112 kcal
Protein: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 35 mg

Why Make This Bourbon Pecan Balls

These bourbon pecan balls are quick to make and perfect for parties or a simple treat. They balance sweet powdered sugar, deep cocoa, and the warm aroma of bourbon. The texture is soft inside with a slight crisp on the outside and a crunchy pecan bite. They dress up easily for holidays and travel well for gifting.

How to Make Bourbon Pecan Balls

Follow a few simple steps. Cream the butter and sugar, add bourbon and vanilla for flavor, fold in flour and pecans, roll into balls, bake briefly, then dust in powdered sugar while warm. The whole process is forgiving and great for bakers of any level.

Ingredients:

1 cup finely chopped pecans
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup bourbon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Measure and chop the pecans finely so they distribute evenly in the dough.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the bourbon and mix well. Gradually add the flour and chopped pecans, mixing until fully combined and the dough holds together.

Step 3: Cooking

Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges look set and the bottoms are lightly golden. Baking time depends on your oven and ball size.

Step 4: Finishing

Remove from the oven and let the balls cool slightly on the sheet for 5 minutes. While they are still warm, roll each ball in additional powdered sugar to coat. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before serving so the coating sets.

How to Serve Bourbon Pecan Balls

Serve these on a cookie platter, with coffee, or as an after-dinner sweet. They pair well with hot cocoa, strong coffee, or a small glass of bourbon for tasting. For parties, arrange them on a tiered tray and dust with extra powdered sugar right before guests arrive.

How to Store Bourbon Pecan Balls

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Let come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. Re-roll in powdered sugar if needed after thawing.

Expert Tips for Perfect Bourbon Pecan Balls

Toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes to boost flavor. Cool before chopping.
Use a cookie scoop for even-sized balls so baking is uniform.
If dough feels too soft to roll, chill it 15–30 minutes.
Don’t overbake. Remove when edges set; centers will be soft but will firm as they cool.
For a stronger bourbon flavor, briefly warm the bourbon (do not boil) and stir into the butter mixture; warmth helps release aroma.
If you want less alcohol, substitute half or all of the bourbon with milk, cream, or extra vanilla.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips before rolling.
Rum-Pecan Balls: Swap bourbon for dark rum for a different warm note.
No-Alcohol Version: Replace bourbon with 3 tablespoons cream + 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
Nut-Free: Substitute finely chopped roasted sunflower seeds for pecans (texture will differ).
Glazed: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled balls instead of powdered sugar for a richer finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the bourbon bake out of the cookies?

Baking reduces some alcohol, but a small amount can remain. The bourbon mainly contributes flavor and aroma. If you want no alcohol, replace it with cream, milk, or extra vanilla.

Can I make these without an oven?

You can try a no-bake version by combining the ingredients and chilling the dough until firm, then rolling and coating in powdered sugar. Texture will be softer and denser than baked balls.

How do I prevent the powdered sugar coating from melting?

Let the balls cool slightly but remain warm for the first roll so the sugar adheres. After they fully cool, handle minimally. Store in layers separated by parchment to avoid smudging.

Can I use pre-chopped pecans or pecan meal?

Pre-chopped pecans work fine. Pecan meal will give a finer, more uniform texture. If using pecan meal, reduce flour slightly to keep dough from getting too dry.

How can I tell when they are done baking?

Look for set edges and a lightly golden bottom. The tops may stay soft. If they crack slightly, that’s okay. They will firm as they cool.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes. You can bake them up to 2 weeks ahead and refrigerate, or freeze for up to 3 months. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

My dough was crumbly — what did I do wrong?

Crumbly dough may need more liquid or fat. Add a teaspoon of milk or a bit more bourbon, one teaspoon at a time, until it holds together. Chill briefly to firm before rolling.

Conclusion

These bourbon pecan balls are an easy, elegant treat with nutty crunch, subtle cocoa, and a warm bourbon note—perfect for holidays or a cozy night in. They store and travel well, and you can adapt them with simple swaps to suit kids or guests who prefer no alcohol. For another take and a quick no-bake version idea, see this helpful recipe: Pecan Bourbon Balls | Easy no-bake recipe for holiday gatherings!.

Enjoy baking — they are small, simple, and full of flavor.