Condensed Milk Pecan Balls Recipe

Introduction

These Condensed Milk Pecan Balls are a delightful treat that combines rich pecans with creamy condensed milk, coated in smooth dark chocolate. They make for an elegant yet simple dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pecan halves (plus chopped pecans for garnish)
• 14 ounce sweetened condensed milk
• 1½ tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups dark chocolate candy melts

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the pecan halves in a food processor. Pulse a few times, then grind on low until you get a sandy, coarse texture, about ¾ cup ground pecans.
2. Step 2: In a 2 to 3 quart saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, flour, and vanilla extract until the flour is fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Stir the ground pecans into the warmed condensed milk mixture and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.
4. Step 4: Pour the mixture into a 9×9 baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes until completely cooled.
5. Step 5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Step 6: Use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the pecan filling.
7. Step 7: Damp your hands slightly to prevent sticking, then roll the scooped filling into balls.
8. Step 8: Place the balls on the baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for another 20 minutes.
9. Step 9: Melt the dark chocolate candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring well after each until smooth.
10. Step 10: Dip each pecan ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or candy dipping tool, shaking off any excess chocolate.
11. Step 11: Immediately sprinkle or roll the chocolate-coated balls in the chopped pecans for garnish, if desired.
12. Step 12: Chill the dipped pecan balls in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before grinding to enhance their nutty aroma.
• If you prefer a sweeter coating, you can use milk chocolate candy melts instead of dark chocolate.
• To add a festive touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.

Storage

Store the pecan balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to one month and thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat is not necessary, as they are best enjoyed chilled.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts can be substituted depending on your preference. Toasting them beforehand will enhance their flavor.

Do I need a food processor to grind the pecans?

A food processor is the easiest tool for achieving a coarse texture, but you can also chop pecans finely by hand if needed.

Condensed Milk Pecan Balls Recipe

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These Condensed Milk Pecan Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining the rich sweetness of condensed milk and the nutty flavor of pecans, all enrobed in smooth dark chocolate. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a decadent bite-sized dessert.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: About 24 pecan balls 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pecan Mixture

• 1 cup pecan halves (plus chopped pecans for garnish)
• 14 ounce sweetened condensed milk
• 1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Chocolate Coating

• 2 cups dark chocolate candy melts

Instructions

1. Grind Pecans: Add the pecan halves to a food processor and pulse a few times. Then grind on low until they reach a sandy, coarse texture, yielding about ¾ cup of ground pecans.
2. Prepare 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 fully incorporated.
3. Cook Mixture: Stir the ground pecans into the warmed condensed milk mixture. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
4. Chill Mixture: Pour the thickened pecan mixture into a 9×9 baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20 minutes until completely cooled.
5. Prepare for Shaping: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Scoop Filling: Use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the chilled pecan mixture.
7. Shape Balls: Slightly dampen your hands to prevent sticking, then roll each portion into smooth balls.
8. Chill Balls: Place the pecan balls on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up.
9. Melt Chocolate: Place the dark chocolate candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until fully melted.
10. Dip Balls in Chocolate: Using a fork or candy dipping tool, dip each pecan ball into the melted chocolate and shake off excess.
11. Garnish: Immediately sprinkle or roll the chocolate-coated pecan balls in chopped pecans for extra texture and flavor.
12. Final Chill: Chill the dipped and garnished balls in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes until the chocolate is set. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

• For easier shaping, keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticky pecan mixture.
• Use a food processor with pulse settings to control pecan texture.
• Dark chocolate candy melts make dipping easier and create a smooth coating.
• Store pecan balls in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one week.
• For variation, try using milk or white chocolate candy melts.

Keywords: pecan balls, condensed milk dessert, no-bake pecan balls, chocolate pecan treats, holiday dessert, bite-sized sweets