Description
Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful no-bake dessert, combining the rich flavors of pecans, brown sugar, and maple syrup into bite-sized treats. These easy-to-make balls are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, nutty snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1½ cups pecans, finely chopped
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup maple syrup or corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Chocolate Coating (Optional)
- ½ cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips (for dipping or drizzling)
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon if using. Stir well to evenly distribute all dry components.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the maple syrup and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes sticky and well combined.
- Form balls: Using your hands, scoop out heaping tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll each into a smooth ball. Place the balls on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Chill: Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up and hold their shape.
- Melt chocolate (optional): If using chocolate, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
- Coat or drizzle: Dip each chilled ball halfway into the melted chocolate or drizzle the chocolate over the top. Return the coated balls to the parchment-lined tray.
- Set chocolate: Place the tray back in the refrigerator until the chocolate has fully set, about 15 minutes.
Notes
- These pecan pie balls can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For an adult twist, add 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon to the mixture before rolling the balls.
- To deepen the flavor of the pecans, toast them lightly before chopping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
