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Condensed Milk Pecan Balls with Chocolate Coating Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 757 reviews
  • Author: Susan
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 pecan balls 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delicious condensed milk pecan balls coated in rich dark chocolate, perfect for festive occasions or anytime you crave a sweet, nutty treat. These no-bake candy balls combine the creamy sweetness of condensed milk with the crunch of pecans and a smooth chocolate shell for an irresistible dessert.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Filling

  • 1 cup pecan halves plus chopped pecans for garnish
  • 14 ounce sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Coating

  • 2 cups dark chocolate candy melts

Instructions

  1. Grind Pecans: Add the pecan halves to a food processor. Pulse a few times, then grind on low until the pecans reach a sandy, coarse texture, about ¾ cup of ground pecans.
  2. Mix Condensed Milk Mixture: In a 2 to 3 quart saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, all-purpose flour, and vanilla extract until the flour is completely incorporated.
  3. Add Pecans and Cook: Stir the ground pecans into the condensed milk mixture once combined and slightly warm. Continue cooking and stirring for 8 to 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  4. Chill Filling: Pour the pecan mixture into a 9×9 baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes until completely cooled.
  5. Scoop and Shape Balls: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the pecan filling. Slightly dampen your hands to prevent sticking and roll the filling into balls. Chill again in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
  6. Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the dark chocolate candy melts in 30 second increments, stirring well after each, until fully melted.
  7. Dip Pecan Balls: Use a fork or candy dipping tool to dip each pecan ball into the melted chocolate, shaking off excess chocolate.
  8. Garnish: Immediately sprinkle or roll the chocolate-coated pecan balls in chopped pecans if desired.
  9. Final Chill: Place the dipped pecan balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes or until set and ready to serve.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze pecan balls for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • You can use pre-ground pecans to save time.
  • To enhance flavor, toast pecans lightly in a non-stick skillet before grinding.
  • Dampen your hands when rolling to prevent sticking.
  • Add a splash of bourbon, brandy, or spiced rum to the pecan mixture for a boozy twist.
  • Create themed versions by rolling pecan balls in holiday sprinkles for Valentine’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and more.