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Pecan Pie Balls Recipe

4.7 from 62 reviews

Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful bite-sized treat that encapsulate the rich, buttery flavors of classic pecan pie. These no-bake dessert balls feature a luscious blend of finely chopped pecans, cocoa powder, and graham cracker crumbs combined with maple syrup and butter, then coated in smooth semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect as an easy-to-make indulgence, they’re great for parties, holidays, or anytime you crave a sweet, nutty snack.

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

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mixture: Gather all ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with maple syrup and vanilla extract using a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold together with a spatula until the mixture is thick and slightly sticky. Add additional maple syrup sparingly if needed. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
  2. Roll the Balls: After chilling, scoop about one tablespoon of the mixture and roll into balls using hands or a cookie scoop for uniform size. Place balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet leaving some space between each. Refrigerate again for 30 minutes to firm up further.
  3. Melt Chocolate Coating: Place semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth and fully melted. If the chocolate is too thick, stir in a teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil to thin.
  4. Coat the Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled pecan pie ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before returning the coated ball to the parchment-lined sheet. Immediately sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top if desired. Repeat for all balls. Reheat chocolate as necessary to maintain dipping consistency.
  5. Chill and Set: Place the coated balls back in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens completely.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once set, these Pecan Pie Balls can be served as a perfect sweet treat. Optionally, pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.

Notes

  • Use a cookie scoop for uniform ball sizes and even chilling.
  • If chocolate starts to harden while coating, gently reheat to keep it smooth.
  • Add a teaspoon of oil to the chocolate to avoid chocolate seizing during melting.
  • For a flavor twist, try adding a splash of bourbon or a sprinkle of sea salt to the mixture.
  • Store leftover pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

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