Pecan Pie Balls Recipe

If you adore the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie but want something a little easier to handle than a traditional slice, then you are going to fall head over heels for these Pecan Pie Balls. They capture all the cozy sweetness and buttery crunch you love about pecan pie, wrapped up into delightful bite-sized treats. Perfect for holiday gatherings, casual get-togethers, or just a special indulgence whenever the mood strikes, these balls are as fun to make as they are to eat. Imagine tender, chocolate-coated treasures bursting with pecan goodness and a hint of maple – they might just become your new favorite dessert obsession!

Pecan Pie Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these sumptuous Pecan Pie Balls requires a handful of simple ingredients, each crucial for achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the crunchy pecans to the sweet maple syrup and rich chocolate coating, every item plays a starring role.

  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped: Adds crunch and that signature nutty flavor essential to pecan pie.
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: Provides a subtle sweetness and sturdy base to bind the mixture.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Brings a smooth sweetness that mellows the bitterness of cocoa.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers a deep, rich chocolate undertone that’s perfectly balanced.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and helps the mixture come together beautifully.
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup: Imparts natural sweetness with a lovely autumnal flavor twist.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm, comforting aroma.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and elevates the overall taste.
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating): Creates a glossy, indulgent outer shell.
  • Extra chopped pecans (for garnish): Adds a decorative crunch and a hint of elegance.

How to Make Pecan Pie Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

Start by bringing all your ingredients together on your workspace for easy access. Mix the finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt in a large bowl. This dry blend ensures each bite is packed with flavor. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy – it’s the magic that binds this mixture with a luscious sweetness. Then fold the wet mixture gently into the dry ingredients until combined and slightly sticky. Pop this bowl into the fridge for 30 minutes so it firms up enough to handle easily.

Step 2: Roll the Balls

Once chilled, your mixture will be heaven to work with. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them between your palms into smooth little balls. Using a cookie scoop is a fantastic way to keep your Pecan Pie Balls uniform in size. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out to keep their shape. After rolling all the balls, chill them again for another 30 minutes to get them perfectly firm for the chocolate coating step.

Step 3: Coat the Balls

Time for the pièce de résistance! Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second bursts, stirring each time to avoid burning. If the chocolate gets too thick, a teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil thinned it right out. Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off, then return it to the lined tray. For that extra wow factor, sprinkle chopped pecans on top while the chocolate is still wet. Once all balls are coated, refrigerate them for another 30 minutes to set the chocolate perfectly.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Balls

Pecan Pie Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adding a garnish to your Pecan Pie Balls takes them from homemade treats to showstoppers. Besides the extra chopped pecans, try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel for a luscious finish. These little touches elevate the presentation and add complementary flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Side Dishes

Pecan Pie Balls shine as a dessert on their own, but pairing them thoughtfully can make your spread unforgettable. Serve alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for cooling contrast. For a festive touch, seasonal fruits like sliced pears or spiced apple slices provide a fresh balance to the richness of the pecan balls.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get fancy or jazz up a party table, try arranging your Pecan Pie Balls on a tiered dessert stand. Pop them into decorative mini cupcake liners or skewered on toothpicks for a fun finger-food display. For an extra indulgence, roll some in additional crushed graham crackers or colorful sprinkles for variety and visual appeal. These creative presentations make serving these delights even more joyful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Pecan Pie Balls will stay fresh for up to a week when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This cooling helps maintain their firm texture and keeps the chocolate coating glossy and intact. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing

Want to prep these treats in advance? You can freeze the Pecan Pie Balls for up to three months. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When it’s time to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

There’s really no need to reheat these delicious bites – they’re perfect chilled. But if you want to soften the chocolate just a bit, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may melt the coating unevenly and affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts make excellent substitutes and bring their own unique flavor profiles. Just be sure to finely chop them to maintain the right texture for rolling.

Is it necessary to chill the mixture before rolling?

Yes, chilling firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle and roll into smooth balls. Skipping this step can lead to sticky, messy hands and irregular shapes.

Can I make these Pecan Pie Balls vegan?

With a few swaps, yes. Use vegan butter and maple syrup as you would normally. Also, choose dairy-free chocolate chips for coating. The result is just as delicious and perfect for plant-based diets.

How long do these Pecan Pie Balls last?

Stored in the fridge in an airtight container, they stay fresh and tasty for up to 7 days. They’re great for making ahead for a party or craving throughout the week.

Can I add spices to the mixture?

Definitely! Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of espresso powder can add interesting depth and warmth to the flavor. Experiment and find what you love most!

Final Thoughts

Making Pecan Pie Balls is like crafting little pockets of holiday magic that you can enjoy anytime. Each bite offers that perfect sweet-and-nutty punch wrapped in a silky chocolate coat, making it impossible to stop at just one. I can’t recommend this recipe enough to anyone looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is irresistible. So go on, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and those you love to these scrumptious delights. Trust me, they’ll thank you for it!

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Pecan Pie Balls Recipe

Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful bite-sized dessert that captures the rich, buttery flavor of traditional pecan pie in a fun and easy-to-make form. These no-bake treats combine finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, and cocoa powder with a creamy maple syrup and butter mixture, then are dipped in smooth semi-sweet chocolate and garnished with extra chopped pecans for a perfect, indulgent finish. They’re ideal for parties, holiday treats, or whenever you want a decadent but simple dessert.

  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes (no bake)
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 2025 pecan pie balls 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No Bake, Mixing, Coating
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Coating and Garnish

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating)
  • Extra chopped pecans (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mixture: Gather all ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. In another bowl, cream together softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract using a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy. Combine wet and dry ingredients using a spatula and fold until the mixture is thick and slightly sticky. Adjust consistency by adding additional maple syrup, one teaspoon at a time, if needed. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
  2. Roll the Balls: Remove the chilled mixture and scoop about a tablespoon at a time, rolling each into a ball using your hands or a small cookie scoop. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. After rolling all balls, refrigerate again for another 30 minutes to firm them further for coating.
  3. Prepare the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each until smooth. Optionally add a teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil if the chocolate is too thick.
  4. Coat the Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled ball completely in the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place coated balls back on the parchment-lined sheet. While the chocolate is wet, sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top if desired. Repeat until all balls are coated. Reheat chocolate if it begins to harden during the process.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the coated balls for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set. Serve chilled and enjoy as a delicious bite-sized dessert. For extra indulgence, pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

  • To achieve uniform size and shape, use a small cookie scoop when rolling the balls.
  • If the mixture feels dry, add additional maple syrup one teaspoon at a time for better binding.
  • Avoid overheating the chocolate to prevent it from seizing; stir between microwave intervals thoroughly.
  • For variation, roll balls in crushed graham crackers or chocolate sprinkles instead of chocolate coating.
  • Adding a splash of bourbon or a pinch of sea salt to the mixture provides a unique flavor twist.
  • Store pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pecan pie ball (approx. 20g)
  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 30 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 1.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg

Keywords: pecan pie balls, no bake dessert, chocolate coated balls, holiday dessert, bite-sized treats, pecan dessert, easy no bake recipe

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