Maple Balls

Makes about 40

7 oz. sweetened condensed milk (half of a can)

1/4 cup softened butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/2 teaspoon maple extract

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1/4 teaspoon salt

3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

3/4 cup chopped walnuts

2 cups chocolate chips

2 tablespoons vegetable shortening

2 tablespoons butter

More walnuts for topping (optional)

With a mixer, beat together the sweetened condensed milk, butter, extracts, syrup, and salt. Add the powdered sugar 1/2 cup at a time until the mixture is doughy. You may need a little more or less than 3 1/2 cups. Roll the dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate or freeze until they're all solid.

Melt the chocolate chips with the shortening and butter in the microwave with the power turned down to 50% (or in a double broiler). Stir every 40 seconds until smooth.

To dip the balls, place one at a time on a fork. Dunk it in the chocolate then tap the fork on the edge of the bowl letting the excess chocolate drip back into the rest of the chocolate through the fork tines. Place the coated ball back onto the sheet and top with a piece of walnut.

Let them harden completely before you touch them.

http://www.yammiesnoshery.com/2011/12/maple-balls.html