Using a mixer, combine butter and sugar until smooth.

Add 1/4 cup Bourbon and vanilla and mix in.

Finally, mix in the ground pecans.

Roll into 1-inch balls and place in rows on a parchment lined baking sheet. The filling is very sticky. Add more powdered sugar if needed.

Set in refrigerator until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag and place in the freezer for a few hours or overnight.

Meanwhile place pecan halves in a small bowl, cover with remaining 1/4 cup of Bourbon and let soak overnight.

Once balls are hardened/frozen melt chocolate in the microwave (30 second intervals, stirring in between until smooth). I do this in batches (1/3 of the chocolate at a time) and 6 or so balls at a time so they don't get too soft with the warm chocolate.

Place a toothpick in each bourbon ball, sticking the toothpick into the center.

Working quickly, dip the bourbon ball centers into the chocolate one at a time. Tap the toothpick against the side of the bowl to shake off excess chocolate.

Set the coated bourbon balls on a waxed or parchment paper lined baking sheet.

With another toothpick push the bourbon ball gently from the toothpick and cover the spot where it was with a bourbon soaked pecan half.

Place coated bourbon balls in the fridge and let them set and harden.

Store in a sealed container and give as gifts or serve at your next holiday party!