Add the pecan halves to a food processor. Pulse pecans a few times, then grind on low until they reach a sandy, coarse texture. (This will give you about ¾ cup when ground)

Next, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, flour and vanilla extract to a 2 to 3 quart saucepan over medium heat until the flour is completely incorporated into the sweetened condensed milk.

Stir the ground pecans into the condensed milk mixture once it's combined and slightly warm, then continue cooking for about 8 to 10 minutes until the mixture has thickened.

Pour the pecan mixture into a 9x9 baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes until completely cooled.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop to scoop out the pecan filling.

Dampen your hands slightly to prevent the pecan filling from sticking as you roll them into balls. (This should help in reduce the amount of the pecan balls sticking to your hands)

Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

Add the dark chocolate candy melts to a microwave safe bowl. Heat in 30 second increments, stirring well after each increment, until completely melted.

Use a fork or candy dipping tool to dip each pecan ball into the melted chocolate, shaking off excess.

After dipping the pecan balls in the melted chocolate, sprinkle or roll them in the chopped pecan for garnish, if desired

Chill in the refrigerator for 20 more minutes, or until ready to serve.