Bailey's Balls

This is my adaptation of Rum Balls.  I made these for the first time over 5 years ago.  I was surprised at how easy they really were, and tasty.  Then I got the idea to switch out the rum for other types of alcohol.  I've found that Kahlua and Bailey's work the best.  And who wouldn't like a fudgy little brownie ball that's been soaked in alcohol?  Perfect for those holiday parties or as a gift.  Once you make these for the first time, you will see that they are that easy and delicious and will be a repeat offender in your baking.  I made them one time for Heays coworkers over a year ago and they still talk about them to this day.  The best part is that you can roll them into whatever colored sugar you want - so they can go with the seasons/holidays.  Being festive, I rolled mine in a mixture of white, green and red. 

festive and delicious

First you make a batch of brownies, let them cool fully.  Then you break them up into chunks, toss it into a bowl, add the alcohol and mix until it comes together and then form into balls, roll in colored sugar and chill. 

balls ready to chill

The size you make them is up to you, but a 1" ball works the best. 

Bailey's Balls

makes 4 dozen

1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) butter, cut into pieces

6 oz semisweet chocolate chips

3 large eggs

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp salt

3/4 cup all purpose flour

1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp Baileys, Kahlua or rum

coarse sanding sugar for rolling

Pam cooking spray

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Coat a 12"x17" rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. 
2. Melt butter and chocolate in a small heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, stirring occasionally.
3. Whisk together eggs, brown sugar, vanilla and salt in a large bowl.  Stir in chocolate mixture, then fold in flour.  Pour batter into prepared baking sheet.  Spread evenly with a rubber spatula. Bake until top is shiny and a cake tester inserted into center comes out with some crumbs attached, about 10 minutes.  Let cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Break up brownie into small pieces; transfer to the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.  With machine on low, pour in the alcohol and mix until crumbs start to come together to form a ball.
5. Shape into 1" balls and roll in sanding sugar to coat.  Transfer to a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper; refrigerate, uncovered, until cold, about 2 hours.  Serve chilled or at room temperature.  Balls can be refrigerated in an airtight container up to 1 week.