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Condensed Milk Pecan Balls Recipe

4.4 from 143 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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