Kentucky Derby Bourbon Balls (Printable version)

Rich chocolate and pecan sweets with a bourbon flavor, chilled and coated for a festive treat.

# What You Need:

→ Nuts

01 - 1 cup (120 g) pecans, finely chopped

→ Liquor

02 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) Kentucky bourbon

→ Confectionery

03 - 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
04 - 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, softened

→ Chocolate Coating

05 - 8 oz (225 g) semisweet chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
06 - 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening, optional for smoother coating

→ Garnish

07 - Whole pecans or extra chopped pecans, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans and bourbon. Let soak for at least 1 hour to absorb flavor.
02 - In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
03 - Stir in the bourbon-soaked pecans including any remaining liquid and blend well.
04 - Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
05 - Melt the chocolate with coconut oil if using in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
06 - Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Place back on the baking sheet.
07 - Garnish with a whole or chopped pecan if desired.
08 - Refrigerate until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No baking required—just mix, chill, and coat
  • Rich bourbon flavor paired with chocolate and pecans
  • Perfect for Derby Day parties and Southern celebrations
  • Easy to make ahead and store for up to 2 weeks
  • Elegant presentation ideal for gift-giving
02 -
  • Let pecans soak in bourbon for the full hour to maximize flavor infusion
  • Chill the balls thoroughly before dipping to prevent melting in warm chocolate
  • Add coconut oil to chocolate for a smooth, glossy coating that sets beautifully
  • Use a toothpick or fork to dip balls, then slide them off gently to avoid marks
  • Always check chocolate and packaged ingredients for allergens if serving to guests
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