Pecan Pie Balls

Pecan Pie Balls are bite-sized, no-bake treats that capture the rich, nutty flavor of traditional pecan pie in a convenient, easy-to-eat form. Coated in smooth chocolate and packed with a sweet, gooey pecan filling, these balls make a perfect holiday dessert or anytime indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pecan pie balls combine the best elements of pecan pie — buttery, sweet, and nutty — without the need for baking a whole pie. They’re portable, mess-free, and incredibly delicious, making them perfect for parties, gift-giving, or simple snacking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chopped pecans
• Brown sugar
• Butter
• Corn syrup or maple syrup
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Graham cracker crumbs or crushed vanilla wafers
• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (for coating)

Directions

1. In a saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens slightly.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Mix pecan filling with graham cracker crumbs until the mixture is sticky but moldable.
4. Shape mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Chill balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
6. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
7. Dip each ball into melted chocolate, coating completely. Return to baking sheet.
8. Optionally, press a whole pecan on top of each ball before the chocolate sets.
9. Refrigerate until chocolate is firm, about 1 hour.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 24 balls
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Chilling time: 1.5 hours
• Total time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

• Use white or dark chocolate for coating.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for warmth.
• Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.
• Drizzle with caramel or white chocolate after coating for decoration.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
• No reheating necessary; serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make pecan pie balls without chocolate coating?

Yes, but the chocolate adds flavor and helps keep the balls intact.

Can I use maple syrup instead of corn syrup?

Yes, maple syrup works well as a natural sweetener.

How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?

Chilling the mixture well before coating helps them hold shape.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, if using gluten-free crumbs.

Can I make these vegan?

Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use dairy-free chocolate.

Can kids help make these?

Yes, shaping and dipping are fun tasks for children.

How long do these keep?

Up to one week refrigerated, or two months frozen.

Can I add sea salt?

A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds a nice contrast.

What’s the best chocolate for coating?

High-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate melts best.

Are pecan pie balls suitable for gifting?

Absolutely, they make great homemade gifts.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Balls offer a deliciously easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of pecan pie in a convenient, bite-sized form. With their rich filling and smooth chocolate coating, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser for holidays, parties, or anytime sweet cravings strike.

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