Have you ever wondered how to elevate a classic dessert into something truly unforgettable? The Red Velvet Bourbon Cake Balls Recipe blends the velvety richness of red velvet cake with the warm, aromatic notes of bourbon, resulting in indulgent, bite-sized treats that are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re throwing a festive party, celebrating a birthday, or just treating yourself, these luscious cake balls will steal the spotlight on any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Decadent Flavor Profile: Rich red velvet cake meets smooth bourbon for a deeply indulgent experience.
Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps make it accessible even for novice bakers.
Versatile Presentation: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or a cozy dessert night.
Make Ahead Convenience: Can be prepared days (or weeks) in advance.
Ingredients Overview
To prepare approximately 24 Red Velvet Bourbon Cake Balls, you’ll need:
- 1 box Red Velvet Cake Mix (or homemade equivalent)
- 3 Large Eggs
- 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil
- 1/2 cup Bourbon (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup Cream Cheese Frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups White Chocolate Chips (for coating)
- Optional: Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or edible glitter for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, prepare the red velvet cake mix as per the instructions on the box, using eggs and oil. Pour into a greased baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Cool & Crumble
Allow the cake to cool completely. Once cooled, crumble it into a large mixing bowl until you get fine, even crumbs.
3. Add Bourbon & Frosting
Pour in 1/2 cup bourbon and add 1 cup cream cheese frosting. Mix until well combined and sticky enough to form balls. If too dry, add more frosting 1 tablespoon at a time.
4. Form Cake Balls
Scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray. Aim for uniform sizes for even coating.
5. Chill
Refrigerate the cake balls for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up and makes dipping easier.
6. Coat in Chocolate
Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Dip each ball using a fork or skewer, then place on parchment paper to set.
7. Decorate (Optional)
Before the coating sets, top with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or edible glitter for a festive touch.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use quality bourbon: A smooth, caramel-toned bourbon enhances the flavor profile.
- Let cake cool fully before crumbling to prevent sogginess.
- Chill before coating to ensure they hold shape.
- Use tempered chocolate for a glossy finish.
- Cookie scoop ensures uniform size and even coating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Matters | How to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Using cold ingredients | Results in poor mixing | Let eggs & frosting come to room temp |
| Skipping chilling | Leads to misshaped balls | Chill at least 1 hour before dipping |
| Overmixing cake batter | Tough texture | Mix just until combined |
| Eyeballing measurements | Inconsistent results | Use measuring tools or scale |
| Low-quality chocolate | Grainy finish | Use couverture or baking chocolate |
| Overpowering with bourbon | Dominates the red velvet flavor | Start with 1/4 cup, taste and adjust |
Substitutions & Variations
- Non-Alcoholic: Swap bourbon for vanilla extract or bourbon-flavored syrup.
- Vegan: Use plant-based cake mix, egg substitute, vegan frosting & dairy-free chocolate.
- Gluten-Free: Choose a certified gluten-free red velvet mix.
- Holiday Twist: Add peppermint extract for Christmas; orange zest and black sprinkles for Halloween.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
- Room Temperature: Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months. Wrap individually in cling film and store in a zip bag.
Thaw in the fridge overnight or let sit at room temp for 20 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness complements the sweetness.
- With Vanilla Ice Cream: Adds creaminess and balances the bourbon.
- With Red Wine: Choose a fruity red for a luxurious pairing.
- With Fresh Berries: Adds tang and contrast to the richness.
Nutritional Information (Per Cake Ball – Approx.)
- Calories: 165 kcal
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Alcohol: Trace (depending on cook time)
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on brand and substitutions.
FAQs
Can I make these cake balls in advance?
Yes! You can prepare them days ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer.
What if I don’t want to use alcohol?
Substitute with vanilla extract or a flavored syrup.
Do I need a candy thermometer for chocolate?
Not mandatory, but using tempered chocolate gives better texture and sheen.
Can I use other coatings besides white chocolate?
Absolutely—try dark or milk chocolate, or even candy melts for color themes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. This recipe scales well. Just ensure you mix and chill in manageable batches.
Conclusion
The Red Velvet Bourbon Cake Balls Recipe is the perfect union of elegance, flavor, and ease. With their moist, flavorful interiors and glossy white chocolate coating, these cake balls are both stunning and delicious. Whether you’re preparing for the holidays or just satisfying a sweet craving, this recipe delivers with style. Don’t forget to rate and comment below, and share your creations on social media using #NRRecipe!
Happy Baking!
