Ingredients
Filling
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Coating
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
- 30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
- Soak Pecans in Bourbon: Combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the pecans to absorb the bourbon flavor fully.
- Prepare Butter and Sugar Mixture: In a large bowl, place the softened butter. Using a hand-held electric mixer, gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the bourbon-soaked pecans and chopped maraschino cherries to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until everything is evenly mixed into a thick batter.
- Shape Balls and Chill: Form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Melt Chocolate Coating: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the shortening or coconut oil over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the chocolate from burning and achieve a smooth, glossy coating.
- Coat the Balls: Using two forks or a toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Place the coated balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Press one candied cherry half on top of each ball while the chocolate is still warm.
- Set the Coating: Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate is completely set and firm, about 30 minutes to an hour.
Notes
- For best flavor, soak the pecans in bourbon overnight.
- Use good quality semi-sweet chocolate for coating to ensure a smooth and shiny finish.
- Shortening or coconut oil helps thin the chocolate for easy dipping and enhances the sheen.
- Store the bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Allow the balls to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American