From the cookbook of Grandma Joan the First. Her secret tip wasn't in the book I copied this out of, although she would pass it to anyone who asked -- the real secret is to develop a palsy of the hand while measuring the bourbon.
3 c. finely crushed vanilla wafer crumbs (about 2 - 7 oz. packages of Nilla Wafers)
1 c. powdered sugar
1 1/2 tbsp cocoa
1 1/2 c. finely chopped walnuts
3 tbsp corn syrup
1/2 c. bourbon
Mix together all and shape into 1" balls. Roll in powdered or granulated sugar (I like superfine). Store in a container with a tight fitting lid.
To make coffee bourbon balls reduce crumbs, nuts, and bourbon by 1/3 to 2c., 1c., and 1/3 c. respectively. Use 1/4 c. instant coffee instead of cocoa. -- Note that these directions were included in the recipe as I copied it out of the book, but I don't remember her ever making the coffee version, and I haven't made it either.
These are even better next day.
Makes about 75.