Sherry Balls are a beloved vintage no-bake treat that combines the rich flavors of cocoa, sherry, and walnuts into bite-sized indulgences. Often shared during the holidays or at special gatherings, these sweet confections are a nostalgic favorite for many families. The original recipe is typed on a well-worn card, suggesting it’s been handed down through generations and cherished for its simplicity and decadent flavor. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, they deliver a perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and a subtle boozy note from the sherry.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp cocoa
- 1 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
- 1/3 cup sherry
- 3 tbsp light corn syrup (e.g., Karo syrup)
- 12 oz crushed vanilla wafers (crushed )
- 1 cup walnuts (chopped )
Instructions
Step 1: Sift Dry Ingredients
- Sift together the cocoa and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Stir in Liquids
- Add the sherry and light corn syrup. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Add Dry Mix-Ins
- Stir in crushed vanilla wafers and chopped walnuts.
Step 4: Combine the Mixture
- Use a spoon or your hands to mix until everything holds together.
Step 5: Form Balls
- Roll mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 6: Dust with Sugar
- Roll the balls in powdered sugar until coated.
Step 7: Chill (Optional)
- Chill in the refrigerator for firmer texture before serving.
Tips
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for more depth.
- Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds.
- Use dark cocoa for richer flavor.
- Chill mixture briefly if too soft to roll.
- Roll in coconut flakes instead of powdered sugar.
- Add holiday sprinkles for festive presentation.
- For less sweetness, use half powdered sugar in the coating.
Transcription of the Original Recipe
Read or copy the transcription
Ruth Penrod SHERRY BALLS good Sift 2 Tablespoons cocoa and 1 cup powdered sugar Stir in 1/3 cup sherry and 3 Tablespoons light Caro syrup Add 12 oz. crushed Vanilla wafers and 1 cup chopped walnuts Stir or work with your hands until the mixture holds together Roll into small balls and dust with powdered sugar. Makes 40 balls.
From Transcription to Instructions
Hi, we love this little note from Ruth. The original directions are short and to the point: sift cocoa and powdered sugar, stir in sherry and Karo, add crushed vanilla wafers and walnuts, then roll and dust. Our instructions keep that method but break it into clear steps so you can follow along, and they add two small clarifications you’ll notice: an approximate ball size (about 1 inch) and an optional chill for a firmer texture. Those changes just make the order and timing easier to follow while leaving the recipe itself intact.
Nutrition
Calories: 72kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 1gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 18mgPotassium: 37mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.3mg
