Chocolate Bourbon Balls
Chocolate Bourbon Balls are a no-bake, boozy confection made from crushed vanilla wafers, cocoa powder, chopped nuts, and bourbon, all bound together and dipped in chocolate. Originating in the American South, particularly Kentucky, they are a beloved holiday treat that requires no oven, making them a popular homemade gift.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
These are a high-fat, high-carb treat, primarily offering quick energy from sugar and fat with minimal protein. A single ball provides a dense calorie load, typically around 100-150 kcal, with most nutrients coming from the nuts and chocolate.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 45 mg |
| Magnesium | 20 mg |
| Iron | 0.8 mg |
| Zinc | 0.4 mg |
| Copper | 0.1 mg |
| Manganese | 0.2 mg |
| Phosphorus | 30 mg |
| Potassium | 60 mg |
| Vitamin E | 0.3 mg |
Per 1 ball (approx. 30 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, they are a staple of Southern hospitality and holiday baking traditions, often made in large batches for gifting. Nutritionally, the nuts provide some healthy fats and minerals like magnesium, but the overall profile is that of an indulgent, calorie-dense dessert.
