Perfect Bourbon Balls Recipe with Pecans and Dark Chocolate Coating
These bourbon balls are rich, nutty treats with a fudgy center and a glossy dark chocolate coating, perfect for holiday parties and gifting. They combine toasted pecans, bourbon, and bittersweet chocolate for an indulgent yet easy homemade delight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 bourbon balls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (60ml) bourbon whiskey
- 8 ounces (225g) dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) light corn syrup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecans evenly on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until fragrant. Let cool, then chop finely.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter with powdered sugar until fluffy and smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in chopped pecans, bourbon, and vanilla extract until fully combined. If mixture is too wet, add a little more powdered sugar.
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Melt dark chocolate with corn syrup in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl until smooth and glossy.
- Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, letting excess drip off. Place back on parchment-lined sheet.
- Let chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker firming. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Notes
Toast pecans to enhance flavor and reduce raw nuttiness. Beat butter and sugar thoroughly for smooth texture. Use corn syrup in chocolate coating to keep it shiny and prevent cracking. Work quickly when dipping to avoid clumpy coating. Chilling balls before coating helps chocolate harden with a satisfying snap.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bourbon ball
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 15
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: bourbon balls, pecans, dark chocolate, holiday treats, easy dessert, homemade candy, bourbon dessert