Condensed milk pecan balls combine creamy pecan filling with a rich chocolate coating for a treat that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and quick prep, this recipe delivers a satisfying bite every time.
Prep Time10 minutesmins
Cook Time10 minutesmins
Chill Time1 hourhr
Total Time1 hourhr20 minutesmins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Condensed Milk Pecan Balls Recipe
Servings: 20pecan balls
Calories: 197kcal
Ingredients
1cuppecan halves,plus chopped pecans for garnish
14ouncessweetened condensed milk
1 ½tablespoonall-purpose flour
½teaspoonpure vanilla extract
2cupsdark chocolate candy melts
Instructions
Add the pecan halves to a food processor. Pulse pecans a few times, then grind on low until they reach a sandy, coarse texture. (This will give you about ¾ cup when ground)
Next, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, flour and vanilla extract to a 2 to 3 quart saucepan over medium heat until the flour is completely incorporated into the sweetened condensed milk.
Stir the ground pecans into the condensed milk mixture once it's combined and slightly warm, then continue cooking for about 8 to 10 minutes until the mixture has thickened.
Pour the pecan mixture into a 9x9 baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes until completely cooled.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop to scoop out the pecan filling.
Dampen your hands slightly to prevent the pecan filling from sticking as you roll them into balls. (This should help in reduce the amount of the pecan balls sticking to your hands)
Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
Add the dark chocolate candy melts to a microwave safe bowl. Heat in 30 second increments, stirring well after each increment, until completely melted.
Use a fork or candy dipping tool to dip each pecan ball into the melted chocolate, shaking off excess.
After dipping the pecan balls in the melted chocolate, sprinkle or roll them in the chopped pecan for garnish, if desired
Chill in the refrigerator for 20 more minutes, or until ready to serve.
Notes
You can use pre-ground pecans to save time.
Milk chocolate, vanilla or caramel candy melts can be used in place of the dark chocolate.
If you prefer, ground pecans can be used to decorate the tops of the finished pecan balls.
You can toast the pecan halves in a non-stick skillet to enhance the flavor.