PIONEER WOMAN BOURBON BALLS RECIPES

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
• Spread the pecans on a cookie sheet, and place in the oven for 3 minutes. For even toasting, turn the tray, front to back. Toss the nuts with a metal spatula and bake for another 3 minutes. You'll know they're done when they give off their fragrant aroma, and be sure to check them so they don't become overbaked or charred.
• In a food processor, chop the vanilla wafers into crumbs. Add the pecans and process just until they are finely chopped. In a medium bowl, mix together the crumb-pecan mixture, 1/4 cup of the cocoa, and 1/4 cup of the confectioners' sugar. Add the corn syrup and bourbon. Mix thoroughly. Sift the remaining 1/4 cup cocoa and 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar onto a large plate. Form the crumb mixture into 3/4-inch balls and roll them through the cocoa-sugar to coat. Store in a sealed container for up to 5 days. If necessary, touch them up with a light dusting of the remaining confectioners' sugar.

Steps:

• Use a small cookie scoop or a rounded tablespoon to make balls out of the leftover cheesecake. After you scoop out the balls, roll them in your hands to make the rounds neater. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and insert a lollipop stick in the top of each. Squeeze the cheesecake around the base of each lollipop stick to ensure it will stay put. Pop into the freezer for 1 full hour.
• Set up a double boiler by bringing a medium saucepan of water to a simmer. Place a small bowl over the top, making sure the bottom doesn't touch the water. Add the candy melts to the bowl and stir until smooth and melted. Stir in the vegetable oil until smooth.
• Quickly dip the cheesecake balls into the melted chocolate and twirl to coat. You may need a knife to help cover the balls. Sprinkle the cheesecake balls before the chocolate dries with your choice of chopped candy, peanuts or toffee brickle and place back on the baking sheet. Refrigerate to set up, about 5 minutes.