Classic Kentucky Bourbon Balls

Classic Kentucky Bourbon Balls

This classic southern candy recipe is one that beats even the best store bought candies. The secret is to use a strong flavored bourbon so that the flavor comes through. My personal preference is the standard Bourbon Trace Variety. The flavor is perfect for these candies!

Classic Kentucky Bourbon Balls
Classic Kentucky Bourbon Balls

Classic Kentuck Bourbon Balls

This Southern Classic Candy is perfect for a gift or to serve at a Derby Party!

Course Dessert
Cuisine Southern
Keyword Bourbon, Candy
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 8 hours
Servings 12 balls
Author Amber Gaines

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter room temperature
  • 2 cups powered sugar
  • 5 tbsp bourbon
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 3/4 cup pecans finely chopped
  • 12 oz dark or semi sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 12 whole pecans for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl using a stand mixer, combine butter, sugar, bourbon and vanilla. Gently fold in the chopped pecans. Scrape down the bowl so ingredients form a small ball.

  2. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight.

  3. Remove mixture from refrigerator and working quickly, roll the candy into 1″ balls. You will want to keep your hands washed so the butter doesn’t stick to your hands as you are rolling.

  4. Transfer each 1″ ball into zip top freezer bags (about 4 per bag). Lay flat in a single layer and place in freezer another 8 hours or overnight.

  5. Line a baking tray with wax paper and set aside.

  6. Melt the chocolate with the coconut oil (this will make the chocolate glossy) over low heat.

  7. Remove 1 bag of rolled butter from the freezer. Using a toothpick, dip each ball into the chocolate and roll to cover as much of the butter as possible. Place on the wax paper lined tray, remove the toothpick and cover the whole and remaining visible butter with a whole pecan.

  8. Repeat with each butter ball in the first pack, then with each remaining freezer bag packet.

  9. Set all finished candies on the tray into the refrigerator to set completely. Transfer to a candy tin and store in a cool dark place for up to a month.

Recipe Notes

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