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–+ servings
Kahlua Bon Bons
Kahlua Bon Bons are a classic no-bake confection popular in mid-century American home kitchens, especially during the holidays. These sweet treats combine the rich flavors of coffee, chocolate liqueur, walnuts, and vanilla wafers into bite-sized candies that require no baking at all. Recipes like this became especially popular in the 1960s and 1970s as home cooks embraced convenience ingredients such as instant coffee, corn syrup, and cookie crumbs. The addition of Kahlúa gives these candies their distinctive coffee flavor and subtle warmth, making them a favorite for festive gatherings and homemade gifts. Rolled in powdered sugar and allowed to mellow for several days, these bon bons develop a smooth, rich flavor that only improves with time.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Resting Time 3 days
Total Time 3 days 20 minutes
Course Candy
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 48 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp instant coffee granules
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 ½ tbsp light corn syrup (such as Karo)
  • ¼ cup Kahlúa liqueur
  • ¾ cup walnuts (ground )
  • 1 cup vanilla wafer (crushed )
  • ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

  • In a medium bowl, combine the instant coffee, melted butter, light corn syrup, and Kahlúa.
  • Stir until the coffee dissolves and the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

  • Mix in the ground walnuts and crushed vanilla wafer crumbs.
  • Blend thoroughly until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Shape the Bon Bons

  • Roll the mixture into approximately 24 small balls.

Step 4: Coat with Sugar

  • Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.

Step 5: Rest and Store

  • Place the bon bons in a covered tin lined with wax paper.
  • Allow them to stand for several days before serving for the best flavor.

Tips

  • Substitute pecans for walnuts for a buttery flavor.
  • Add cocoa powder for a chocolate-coffee version.
  • Roll the candies in cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar.
  • Dip half the bon bons in melted chocolate.
  • Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra aroma.
  • Refrigerate before serving for a firmer texture.
  • Use espresso powder instead of instant coffee.
  • Add finely chopped dark chocolate for texture.
  • Package in decorative tins for edible gifts.
  • Toast the nuts before grinding for deeper flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 48kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 1gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0.8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.7gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 10mgPotassium: 25mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 25IUCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.2mg
Keyword bon bons, coffee candy, edible gifts, holiday treats, Kahlua dessert, no-bake candy, party sweets, retro desserts, vintage recipe, walnuts