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+ servings
Plate of homemade chocolate treats, one cut open to reveal the creamy center.

Kentucky Bourbon Balls Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Elegant and indulgent, this Kentucky Bourbon Balls Recipe combines bourbon-soaked nuts, rich butter, powdered sugar, and chocolate for a festive confection.
24 Servings

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts
  • 5 tablespoons Kentucky bourbon
  • 1 16-ounce package powdered sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened

For the Coating:

  • 18 ounces semi-sweet chocolate

Instructions
 

Prepare the Nuts

  1. Place the chopped nuts into a glass jar or container. Pour the bourbon over the nuts, seal tightly, and allow them to soak for a minimum of 8 hours or overnight. This ensures full absorption of flavor.

Create the Filling

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and softened butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in the bourbon-soaked nuts along with any remaining liquid. If the mixture is excessively sticky, refrigerate it for 30–60 minutes to firm.

Shape the Bourbon Balls

  1. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the mixture into ¾-inch balls. Roll each portion between your palms until smooth. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to set.

Prepare the Chocolate Coating

  1. Line a second baking sheet with parchment paper. In the upper section of a double boiler, melt the semi-sweet chocolate over gently simmering water, stirring frequently until smooth and glossy.

Coat the Bourbon Balls

  1. Using a fork or dipping tool, roll each chilled bourbon ball in the melted chocolate until fully coated. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.

Chill and Serve

  1. Refrigerate the coated bourbon balls until the chocolate shell has fully hardened. Once set, transfer to a serving tray or storage container. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

To make this recipe gluten-free, confirm that both the bourbon and the chocolate used are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives. The remaining ingredients—nuts, powdered sugar, and butter—are naturally gluten-free.
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