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Pecan Pie Balls Recipe

Pecan Pie Balls Recipe

4.8 from 22 reviews

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.

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

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