Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups pecans, finely chopped
- 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 3 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and toast them in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
3. In a food processor, pulse the toasted pecans until finely chopped.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, vanilla wafer crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, bourbon, corn syrup, and salt. Mix well.
5. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
6. Roll the balls in powdered sugar until coated.
7. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 350°F
Refrigerator temperature: 40°F or below
Serving size:
Makes about 36 balls
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 7g
Saturated fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 50mg
Total carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 9g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of pecans, you can use walnuts or almonds.
- Instead of vanilla wafer crumbs, you can use graham cracker crumbs or shortbread cookie crumbs.
- Instead of bourbon, you can use rum, brandy, or whiskey.
- Instead of corn syrup, you can use honey or maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the mixture for a tropical twist.
- Roll the balls in chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts instead of powdered sugar.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the balls for a decadent touch.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to finely chop the pecans in the food processor to ensure a smooth texture.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of bourbon or corn syrup at a time until it comes together.
- Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Serve the balls at room temperature for the best flavor.
Storage instructions:
Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
The balls do not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the balls on a platter or in a bowl and sprinkle with cocoa powder or powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Garnish the balls with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cinnamon.
Pairings:
Serve the balls with a glass of bourbon or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
The balls can be served as a dessert on their own or with a fruit salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too wet, add more cookie crumbs or powdered sugar until it firms up.
- If the balls are too dry, add more bourbon or corn syrup until they are moist enough to hold together.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to toast the pecans to kill any bacteria or pathogens.
- Wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before handling the ingredients.
- Store the balls in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
Pecan balls are a classic Southern dessert that originated in the United States. The addition of bourbon adds a rich, smoky flavor to the sweet and nutty balls.
Flavor profiles:
The pecan-bourbon balls have a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of chocolate and a boozy kick from the bourbon.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the pecan-bourbon balls as a dessert or a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
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