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Bourbon Balls

These delightful bourbon balls combine rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and a hint of bourbon, making them the perfect sweet treat for the holidays.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 24 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Using high-quality butter like Kerrygold adds richness.
  • 2 cups confectioners' sugar Sift if clumpy for a smooth consistency.
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped Toasting them beforehand enhances their flavor.
  • 5 tablespoons bourbon Choose a smooth, well-balanced whiskey like Maker’s Mark.
  • 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips Use high-quality brands like Ghirardelli for best results.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Helps the chocolate dip stay smooth and glossy.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix softened butter and confectioners' sugar using a hand mixer on low speed until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir in chopped pecans and bourbon until well combined.
  4. Using a 1 1/2 tablespoon scoop, portion the mixture into small mounds on the lined baking sheet.
  5. Refrigerate the mounds for about 30 minutes to firm up.
  6. Once chilled, roll each mound into a ball shape. If the mixture feels dry, add a splash more bourbon.
  7. Cover the balls with plastic wrap and chill for another 30 minutes to overnight.
Chocolate Coating
  1. Melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth.
  2. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate using a fork, letting the excess drip off, and place back on the parchment sheet.
  3. Chill the chocolate-dipped balls in the fridge until set, usually about 30 minutes.

Notes

Store bourbon balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for three months. They taste better after a day or two as flavors meld.