Kentucky Derby Bourbon Balls (Print Version)

Decadent chocolate-coated pecan confections infused with bourbon, ideal for celebrations or cozy afternoons.

# What You’ll Need:

→ 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
06 - 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening, optional

→ Garnish

07 - Whole pecans or chopped pecans, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Combine chopped pecans and Kentucky bourbon in a small bowl. Allow to soak for at least 1 hour to fully absorb the flavor.
02 - In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar and softened butter together until smooth and well combined.
03 - Stir the bourbon-soaked pecans with any remaining liquid into the sugar mixture and blend thoroughly.
04 - Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm.
05 - Melt the semisweet chocolate with coconut oil if using in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second intervals, stirring until completely smooth.
06 - Dip each chilled ball into melted chocolate, ensuring complete coating, then return to the baking sheet.
07 - Top each chocolate-coated ball with a whole pecan or sprinkle of chopped pecans if desired.
08 - Refrigerate until chocolate is fully set, approximately 30 minutes, before serving.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • No baking required—perfect for warm weather or when the oven is occupied
  • Ready in just over an hour, including chilling time
  • Elegant presentation ideal for Derby Day parties, holidays, or gift-giving
  • Classic Southern flavor profile with authentic Kentucky bourbon
  • Easy to customize with your preferred nuts or chocolate
  • Stores beautifully for up to two weeks in the refrigerator
02 -
  • Use quality Kentucky bourbon for authentic flavor—the better the bourbon, the better the final result
  • Toast your pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their natural oils and deepen the flavor
  • Work quickly when dipping in chocolate to maintain the right consistency; reheat gently if it begins to thicken
  • A fork or dipping tool helps achieve professional-looking chocolate coating with minimal mess
  • Let bourbon balls come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for optimal texture and flavor
  • Double the batch during holidays—these freeze beautifully for up to three months
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