Pecan Pie Balls

Pecan Pie Balls

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1. Introduction: 

If you love the rich, nutty flavor of traditional pecan pie but want something easier to make and even more fun to eat, Pecan Pie Balls are the perfect treat. These no-bake delights capture all the warmth and sweetness of the classic holiday dessert in a convenient, bite-sized form. Made with crushed pecans, graham crackers, brown sugar, and a hint of maple or vanilla, they’re dipped in chocolate for an indulgent finish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering, need a quick dessert for a potluck, or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this easy Pecan Pie Balls recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in minutes—no oven required.

 

2. Pecan Pie Balls Recipe

🛒 Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pecan halves, finely chopped

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed

  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (or corn syrup)

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating)

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)

🧰 Equipment You’ll Need:

  • Mixing bowl

  • Spoon or spatula

  • Food processor or nut chopper (optional for chopping pecans)

  • Baking sheet

  • Parchment paper or wax paper

  • Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)

  • Fork or dipping tool

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and sticky enough to hold together.

2: Form the Balls

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat until all the mixture is used. Place the balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

3: Chill

Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 15–20 minutes. This helps the balls firm up and makes them easier to dip in chocolate.

4: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 20–30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.

5: Dip and Coat

Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled pecan pie ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s completely coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off, then return the ball to the parchment-lined sheet.

6: Set the Chocolate

Allow the chocolate to harden by placing the dipped pecan pie balls in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes or until firm.

These Pecan Pie Balls are easy, no-bake treats that deliver all the flavor of classic pecan pie with a modern, mess-free twist. Great for holidays, gifts, or anytime indulgence!

 

3. Storage Tips

To keep your Pecan Pie Balls fresh and delicious:

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The chocolate coating stays firm and the flavor continues to develop over time.

  • Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

  • Room Temperature (Short-Term): If serving at a party or event, they can safely sit at room temperature for a few hours without melting or becoming too soft.

 

4. Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving — 1 ball)

  • Calories: 140

  • Total Fat: 9g

  • Saturated Fat: 3g

  • Cholesterol: 0mg

  • Sodium: 30mg

  • Carbohydrates: 15g

  • Sugar: 10g

  • Protein: 1g

  • Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands or substitutions.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Pecan Pie Balls are easy to make, a few missteps can affect the final results. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Using Whole Pecans Without Chopping

Make sure the pecans are finely chopped or pulsed in a food processor. Large pieces make it hard for the mixture to hold together and can cause crumbling when rolling.

2. Skipping the Chill Time

Don’t skip the freezer step before dipping! Chilling the balls for 15–20 minutes helps them stay firm during the chocolate dipping process.

3. Overheating the Chocolate

If the chocolate gets too hot, it can seize or burn. Melt it gently in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for a smooth, glossy coating.

4. Not Using a Binder

The combination of maple syrup (or corn syrup) and brown sugar acts as the glue. If you reduce the amount too much, the mixture won’t bind properly and won’t form into balls.

5. Skipping the Parchment Paper

Always line your baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking during both the chilling and chocolate-dipping stages.

6. Dipping Warm Balls into Chocolate

Warm or room temperature balls can crumble or fall apart in melted chocolate. Make sure they’re cold and firm from the freezer before dipping.

7. Not Storing Them Properly

Leaving Pecan Pie Balls out for too long in warm temperatures can cause the chocolate to melt. Keep them in the fridge or freezer if not serving right away.

6. Conclusion

Pecan pie balls are more than just a sweet treat, they’re a celebration of comfort, tradition, and creativity in the kitchen. With their easy preparation, rich flavor, and endless customization options, these no-bake bites are sure to become a staple in your holiday dessert lineup or any time you crave a little Southern indulgence.

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Pecan Pie Balls

Pecan Pie Balls

  • Author: Ariana Bender
  • Total Time: 50 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 20–25 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Pecan Pie Balls are a delicious, bite-sized dessert that brings the sweet and nutty flavors of pecan pie in a no-bake form. Perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or any occasion, these treats are easy to make and require only a few ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 ½ cups toasted pecans, chopped

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

  • ½ cup brown sugar

  • ¼ cup corn syrup (or sweetened condensed milk)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 cup chocolate (dark or milk), melted

  • 1 tsp coconut oil (for melting chocolate, optional)

Instructions

  • Toast the pecans: Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes. Stir halfway through for even browning.

  • Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine toasted pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until a sticky dough forms.

  • Shape the balls: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.

  • Chill: Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

  • Dip in chocolate: Melt chocolate and coconut oil together, then dip each chilled ball into the chocolate and place them back on parchment to set.

  • Let the chocolate set: Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature or in the fridge.

Notes

  • Use vegan chocolate and maple syrup if you want a dairy-free option.

  • Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate for extra flavor.

  • These can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 10 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes (just toasting the pecans)
  • Category: DessertNo-bake, Chilling
  • Method: No-bake, Chilling
  • Cuisine: Southern, American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 120–140
  • Sugar: 9–11g
  • Fat: 8–10g
  • Carbohydrates: 12–15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1–2g

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