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–+ servings

KENTUCKY BOURBON BALLS

4 from 1 vote
These elegant chocolate-coated bourbon balls combine Southern charm with decadent flavor. Perfect for gifts, holidays, or any special occasion!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 16 hours
Total Time 16 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 24 balls
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Centers:
  • 1 cup pecans or walnuts finely chopped
  • 5 tablespoons Kentucky bourbon
  • 16 ounces confectioners' sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Coating:
  • 18 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening optional, helps thin chocolate
Optional Garnishes:
  • Extra finely chopped nuts
  • Gold sprinkles
  • Cocoa powder for dusting
  • Sea salt flakes

Method
 

  1. Place chopped nuts in a sealable jar, pour bourbon over them. Seal and let soak 8 hours or overnight.
  2. In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
  3. Gradually add confectioners' sugar and salt, mixing until well combined.
  4. Fold in bourbon-soaked nuts with any remaining bourbon. Mix thoroughly.
  5. Form mixture into 3/4-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
  6. Place on wax paper-lined tray and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight.
  7. Melt chocolate (and shortening if using) in double boiler over barely simmering water.
  8. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled ball in melted chocolate.
  9. Place on wax paper-lined tray. Add garnishes if desired while chocolate is still wet.
  10. Refrigerate until chocolate is set, about 1 hour.

Notes

Make Ahead: Can be made up to 2 weeks ahead
Storage: Keep refrigerated in airtight container
Freezing: Freeze up to 3 months
Bourbon: Use good quality but not premium
Chocolate: Better quality = better coating
Temperature: Keep balls cold while dipping

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