Pecan Pie Balls

Pecan Pie Balls are bite-sized treats that pack all the flavors of a classic pecan pie into a no-bake, handheld dessert. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a little sweetness, these rich and nutty delights are quick and easy to make.

With a buttery pecan and graham cracker base, these treats are coated in chocolate for an irresistible finish.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Food processor (optional)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)

Ingredients

• 1 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (for coating)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil (optional, for melting chocolate)

Directions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and form a sticky dough.
2. Shape into Balls: Scoop out approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a smooth ball. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all the dough is used. Refrigerate the balls for 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Add vegetable oil for a thinner consistency if desired.
4. Coat the Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the coated balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Set the Chocolate: Allow the chocolate coating to set at room temperature or speed up the process by refrigerating the balls for 15 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate is firm, transfer the Pecan Pie Balls to an airtight container or serve immediately.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Chill Time

30 minutes

Total Time

50 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 Ball)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g

Expert Tips

• Finely Chopped Pecans: Use a food processor for even chopping, ensuring the mixture binds well.
• Use High-Quality Chocolate: This enhances the flavor and makes the coating smooth and shiny.
• Decorate: Sprinkle with crushed pecans or sea salt before the chocolate sets for an extra touch.
• Storage: Store in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate firm and prevent the balls from softening.

FAQs

Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute honey or maple syrup for corn syrup, but the flavor and texture may slightly vary.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pecan Pie Balls can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What if I don’t have graham crackers?
Crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits are excellent substitutes.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?
Yes, the balls are delicious on their own, though the chocolate adds a nice contrast in texture and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Substitutions & Variations

• Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate for a richer taste.
• Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels for a nut-free option.
• Festive Flair: Add sprinkles or drizzle with white chocolate for holiday-themed treats.

Pecan Pie Balls

Pecan Pie Balls are bite-sized treats that pack all the flavors of a classic pecan pie into a no-bake, handheld dessert. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you're craving a little sweetness, these rich and nutty delights are quick and easy to make.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

• - Mixing bowl
• - Food processor (optional)
• - Baking sheet
• - Parchment paper or silicone mat
• - Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)

Ingredients

  

• - 1 cup finely chopped pecans
• - 1 cup crushed graham crackers
• - 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• - 1/4 cup brown sugar
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• - 1/4 teaspoon salt
• - 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for coating
• - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil optional, for melting chocolate

Instructions

 

• **Prepare the Mixture:** In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and form a sticky dough.
• **Shape into Balls:** Scoop out approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a smooth ball. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all the dough is used. Refrigerate the balls for 30 minutes to firm up.
• **Melt the Chocolate:** In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Add vegetable oil for a thinner consistency if desired.
• **Coat the Balls:** Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the coated balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
• **Set the Chocolate:** Allow the chocolate coating to set at room temperature or speed up the process by refrigerating the balls for 15 minutes.
• **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the chocolate is firm, transfer the Pecan Pie Balls to an airtight container or serve immediately.