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Pecan Pie Balls: Delicious No-Bake Treats for the Holidays Recipe

Pecan Pie Balls: Delicious No-Bake Treats for the Holidays Recipe

5 from 12 reviews

Pecan Pie Balls are no-bake, bite-sized treats that deliver the rich, buttery flavor of classic pecan pie combined with a smooth chocolate coating. These easy-to-make delights feature a mixture of chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, cocoa, and maple syrup, rolled into balls and dipped in melted semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a decadent, nutty dessert that requires no baking.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Coating and Garnish

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

Instructions

  1. Gather Ingredients: Arrange all ingredients on the counter to streamline the process before starting.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined to ensure consistent flavor throughout the mixture.
  3. Cream Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract together using a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Fold gently using a spatula until thick, slightly sticky, and well combined. Adjust consistency by adding more maple syrup one teaspoon at a time if too dry.
  5. Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm the mixture for easier handling.
  6. Roll Balls: Using hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the chilled mixture into approximately 20-25 one-tablespoon balls. Place them spaced out on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Refrigerate Balls: Chill the rolled balls in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to set thoroughly before coating.
  8. Melt Chocolate: Microwave semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Optionally, add 1 teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil if too thick to thin out the chocolate.
  9. Coat Balls: Dip each chilled pecan pie ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or toothpick, ensuring full coverage. Let excess chocolate drip off and place back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
  10. Garnish: While chocolate is still wet, sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top of each coated ball for added texture and visual appeal.
  11. Set Chocolate: Return the coated balls to the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the chocolate harden completely.
  12. Serve and Enjoy: Once set, serve the pecan pie balls as a festive snack or dessert. Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence if desired.

Notes

  • For a different texture, try rolling balls in crushed graham crackers or chocolate sprinkles instead of chocolate coating.
  • Adding a splash of bourbon to the mixture adds a warm, rich flavor twist perfect for adult gatherings.
  • Store pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking during chilling and coating stages.
  • If chocolate thickens during dipping, gently reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to restore smooth consistency.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure graham cracker crumbs are certified gluten-free or substitute with gluten-free cookie crumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan pie balls, no bake dessert, holiday treats, chocolate coated snacks, easy pecan recipe, nutty desserts