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Perfect Mint Julep Bourbon Balls

mint julep bourbon balls - featured image

These mint julep bourbon balls are a sophisticated Southern treat combining the warmth of bourbon with a cool hint of mint, wrapped in a creamy, chocolatey shell. Easy to make and perfect for gifts or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed pecans
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup good-quality bourbon (e.g., Buffalo Trace or Bulleit Bourbon)
  • 1 teaspoon mint extract
  • 12 oz chocolate for dipping (mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips or bars)
  • Optional: coarse sugar or crushed pecans for rolling

Instructions

  1. Crush the pecans in a food processor until finely ground but not powdery (about 2 minutes).
  2. In a large bowl, combine crushed pecans with powdered sugar and stir to blend evenly (1-2 minutes).
  3. Beat softened cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
  4. Add bourbon and mint extract to the cream cheese and mix on low speed until fully incorporated (1 minute).
  5. Slowly add the pecan and powdered sugar mixture to the cream cheese blend and stir gently until a thick, moldable dough forms (2-3 minutes).
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
  7. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture per ball and roll into smooth spheres. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet (10-15 minutes).
  8. Melt the chocolate using a double boiler or microwave until smooth and glossy (5-7 minutes).
  9. Dip each bourbon ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, tap off excess chocolate, and return to parchment (15 minutes).
  10. Optionally sprinkle with coarse sugar or crushed pecans while chocolate is still wet (5 minutes).
  11. Refrigerate dipped balls until chocolate is firm, about 1 hour.

Notes

If mixture is too soft after chilling, add more powdered sugar to firm up. Use gentle heat to melt chocolate and stir frequently to avoid burning. Chill mixture well before shaping to prevent balls from falling apart. Store in airtight container refrigerated up to two weeks or freeze uncoated balls up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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