Chocolate Pecan Candy Balls
Sweet chocolate-covered pecan candies with a rich, nutty flavor, perfect for parties, gifts, or indulgent treats for friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the Eagle Brand milk, powdered sugar, margarine, and 4 cups of pecans or 2 cups of pecans and 2 cups of coconut. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- After chilling, roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate bits and paraffin wax in a double boiler.
- Dip each ball into the melted chocolate mixture and drop onto wax paper to set.
- Keep melted chocolate on low heat to prevent burning.
- Use an ice pick or small fork to handle the balls during dipping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using unsweetened condensed milk instead of Eagle Brand milk. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Ensure the chocolate coating is smooth by using high-quality chocolate bits and keeping the melted chocolate at a consistent low heat. Chilling the mixture helps it firm up for easier rolling into balls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful chocolate pecan candy balls as a sweet treat at gatherings or parties. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect addition to a dessert platter alongside treats like Pecan Butter Brittle. For extra flair, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chocolate pecan candy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them; just layer them between sheets of wax paper. To enjoy them after freezing, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Pecan Candy Balls contains roughly 3240 calories, with 15g protein, 248g carbohydrates, and 249g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value), calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1956mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate for semi-sweet chocolate bits if you prefer a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that it may alter the sweetness of the overall candy balls.
What if I don’t have a double boiler?
If you don't have a double boiler, you can create one by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Just ensure that the bowl doesn’t touch the water, allowing the chocolate to melt gently.
Can I add flavorings to the chocolate coating?
Absolutely! You can add a few drops of vanilla extract or peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for a unique twist. Just be cautious not to add too much liquid, as it can cause the chocolate to seize.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).