Pecan Pie Balls Recipe

Pecan pie is a classic dessert that many associate with the holidays and special occasions. But what if you could enjoy all the flavors of a pecan pie in a bite-sized, no-bake treat? Enter the Pecan Pie Balls recipe—an easy, delicious dessert that brings the rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie in a fun, snackable form. These little treats are perfect for any occasion, from a family gathering to a festive party.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making these delicious, bite-sized pecan pie balls—from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions, plus tips, storage recommendations, and even the nutritional breakdown. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (lightly toasted for extra flavor)
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm spice note)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup maple syrup (for that classic pecan pie flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional for coating)

Instructions:

Toast the Pecans: Start by lightly toasting the pecans in a skillet over medium heat. Toasting them will bring out their natural flavor and aroma, so it’s well worth the effort! Toast for about 3-5 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the heat and let them cool.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until all dry ingredients are well incorporated.
Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix everything together until the mixture starts to clump.
Incorporate Pecans: Add the toasted pecans to the mixture and stir until evenly distributed. The pecans should be finely chopped but not powdered; you want little bits of crunch in each ball!
Form the Balls: Take small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls using your hands. Place the rolled balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill: To help the pecan pie balls hold their shape, refrigerate them for at least 1 hour or until they’re firm.
Optional Coating: If you’d like to add a little extra sweetness, melt some chocolate chips and dip the pecan balls into the melted chocolate. You can also drizzle the chocolate over the balls for a pretty presentation. After dipping, place the balls back onto the parchment paper and let the chocolate set.

Recipe Notes:

Texture Tip: You can adjust the amount of graham cracker crumbs if you like your pecan pie balls to be a bit firmer or softer. Add more crumbs for a firmer texture or less for a softer one.
Sweetness Level: If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the powdered sugar or brown sugar by a tablespoon or two.
Flavor Twist: For an added flavor kick, you can add a teaspoon of bourbon or rum extract to the mixture. It’ll give the pecan pie balls a subtle adult flavor perfect for holiday parties.
Storage: These pecan pie balls store well in the fridge and even freeze beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container, and they’ll last up to a week in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Time and Serving:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Serving Size: This recipe makes about 18-20 pecan pie balls, depending on how big you make them.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving):

Calories: 140
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 1g

How to Store Pecan Pie Balls:

To keep your pecan pie balls fresh and flavorful, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They’ll maintain their texture and taste, but if you want to keep them for longer, simply freeze them. To freeze, lay them out on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until frozen solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store them for up to 3 months.

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect:

Toast the Pecans Just Right: Be careful not to over-toast the pecans, as they can become bitter. A light toast is all you need to bring out that lovely nutty flavor.
Customize the Coating: If chocolate isn’t your thing, you can roll these in crushed graham crackers, powdered sugar, or even coconut flakes for a unique twist.
Serve Warm: While they’re delicious when chilled, pecan pie balls also taste great when served at room temperature. Try popping them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey treat!

How to Serve:

Serve your pecan pie balls as a delightful dessert at family gatherings, parties, or as a sweet treat for yourself. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making them perfect for cozy fall or winter evenings. You can also serve them at Thanksgiving or any holiday celebration for a unique spin on the traditional pecan pie.

FAQs About Pecan Pie Balls:

Yes! These treats can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge. They’re also freezer-friendly, so you can make them ahead of time and pull them out when needed.

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

To prevent them from sticking, ensure they are well-chilled before storing them. Also, separating the layers with parchment paper when storing them can help.

Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or use gluten-free cookie crumbs as a base.

Conclusion:

These pecan pie balls are a fun and easy way to bring the flavors of traditional pecan pie into a new, bite-sized treat. They’re perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just craving something sweet, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the crunch, sweetness, and warmth of these delightful treats!