Kentucky Derby Bourbon Balls (Print View)

Rich chocolate and pecan confections with bourbon flavor, chilled and coated for festive occasions.

# Components:

→ Nuts

01 - 1 cup pecans, finely chopped

→ Liquor

02 - 1/4 cup Kentucky bourbon

→ Confectionery

03 - 2 cups powdered sugar
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Chocolate Coating

05 - 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
06 - 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening, optional

→ Garnish

07 - Whole pecans or extra chopped pecans, optional

# Directions:

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, approximately 30 minutes.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No baking required—just mix, chill, and coat for effortless elegance
  • Perfect balance of sweet chocolate, nutty pecans, and smooth bourbon flavor
  • Makes 24 servings, ideal for parties, gifting, or Derby Day gatherings
  • Ready in just over an hour, including chilling time
  • Stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
  • Easily adaptable for non-alcoholic versions or different nuts
02 -
  • Allow pecans to soak in bourbon for the full hour—this deepens the flavor significantly
  • Use quality Kentucky bourbon for authentic taste; the better the bourbon, the better your bourbon balls
  • Keep hands slightly damp when rolling balls to prevent sticking
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks; flavors actually improve after a day or two
  • Let bourbon balls sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for optimal texture
  • Use a toothpick to dip balls in chocolate, then slide off gently to minimize marks
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