Kentucky Kernels

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Servings: 10 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Rich bourbon-spiked fudge with chopped pecans
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Kentucky Kernels

Author: chefs-mate Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 10 Calories: 863.9

Description

These Kentucky Kernels are a decadent, no-bake confection that captures the spirit of Southern hospitality. Rich butter and powdered sugar create a silky, fudge-like base, while a splash of bourbon adds a warm, sophisticated depth that pairs beautifully with the crunch of toasted pecans. This dessert is incredibly simple to make, requiring no oven time, just a bit of patience for chilling. Perfect for holiday gift boxes, potlucks, or a luxurious after-dinner treat, these kernels offer a dense, sweet, and nutty experience. The bourbon flavor mellows as they set, resulting in a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth candy that feels indulgent yet homemade. Serve them on a platter with coffee or pack them in tins for a thoughtful present.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Soften the butter at room temperature until pliable, then cream it by hand in a medium bowl until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and bourbon to the butter, alternating additions, and mix thoroughly by hand until a thick, uniform paste forms.
  3. Fold the chopped pecans into the mixture until evenly distributed.
  4. Line cookie sheets with wax paper or parchment paper.
  5. Drop the mixture by 2/3-teaspoonfuls onto the lined sheets, spacing them apart slightly.
  6. Cover the kernels with another sheet of wax paper to prevent drying.
  7. Refrigerate for at least one hour, or until firm and set.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 10

Amount Per Serving
Calories 863.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 55.3g86%
Saturated Fat 13.0g65%
Cholesterol 32.2mg11%
Sodium 97.2mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 83.4g28%
Dietary Fiber 5.8g24%
Sugars 77.4g
Protein 5.7g12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Do not use an electric mixer for this recipe; hand mixing ensures the correct texture and prevents the fudge from becoming too airy or greasy.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and firmness.

For a variation, you can toast the pecans lightly before chopping them to enhance their nutty flavor.

Keywords: bourbon, butter, chocolate-free, dessert, fudge, kentucky, kernels, no-bake, pecans, powdered sugar, rich, southern, spiked, sweet, treat
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