Kentucky Colonels
Kentucky Colonels are rich, sweet confections with bourbon, pecans, and chocolate, perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat for bourbon lovers and nut enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine softened butter, sweetened condensed milk, and bourbon in a large mixing bowl; add powdered sugar and knead until the mixture is well blended and does not stick to hands.
- Knead in the finely chopped pecans.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Combine semi-sweet chocolate morsels and melted paraffin in the top of a double boiler; place over hot water, stirring until the chocolate is melted.
- Using a toothpick, dip each ball of candy into the melted chocolate mixture.
- Place the dipped balls on waxed paper to set.
- Remove the toothpick and gently press a pecan half onto each chocolate-coated ball.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using high-quality bourbon. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the bourbon with apple cider or a splash of vanilla extract. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. If you find the mixture too sticky, you can add a bit more powdered sugar until it reaches the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These Kentucky Colonels make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with Ugly Cake(Triple Tasty Fudge Bars) for a dessert platter. Consider garnishing with additional pecan halves or a sprinkle of sea salt for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Kentucky Colonels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you need to reheat, do so gently in the microwave for a few seconds to soften the chocolate without melting it completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kentucky Colonels contains roughly 3295 calories, with 44g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 328g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (154% of the Daily Value), protein (87% of the Daily Value), and iron (64% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 43g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend well into the mixture. Alternatively, try mixing different nuts for a unique flavor profile.
What can I use instead of paraffin wax?
If you prefer not to use paraffin, you can use coconut oil or vegetable shortening to thin the chocolate. This will help the chocolate maintain its smooth texture for dipping while keeping it safe for consumption.
How can I make these gluten-free?
The ingredients in Kentucky Colonels are naturally gluten-free, so no modifications are needed. However, ensure that the powdered sugar and chocolate morsels are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
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).