Maple Nut Balls

From Taste of Home 'Best Loved Cookies and Candies 2010"

1/2 cup butter, softened
2 tea maple flavoring
3 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1 package mils chocolate chips
2 tea shortening

1. In a large bowl, cream butter and maple flavoring until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectioners' sugar and mix well. Stir in pecans. Shape into 1 inch balls. Cover and refrigerate for 1 1/2 hours or until firm.

2. In a microwave, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Dip balls in chocolate mixture; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper until set. Store in an airtight container in the refigerator.