Description
Enjoy a no-bake twist on classic pecan pie with these bite-sized Pecan Pie Balls! Made with toasted pecans, brown sugar, and vanilla, then coated in rich chocolate—perfect for holidays, gifts, or a quick sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 10 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Pecans (Optional)
Toast chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently. Let them cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir well.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in maple syrup (or corn syrup), vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture holds together when pressed. Add more syrup or butter if needed.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 5: Coat in Chocolate
Melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring between each. Add coconut oil if desired. Dip each ball in melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place back on parchment paper.
Step 6: Set and Serve
Refrigerate for 20 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens. Enjoy immediately or store for later.
Notes
- White Chocolate Version: Use white chocolate for a sweeter coating.
- Bourbon Pecan Pie Balls: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon for a boozy kick.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute pecans with crushed pretzels or sunflower seeds.
- Coconut Lovers: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- chill time: 50 minutes
- Category: dessert, snack
- Method: no bake
- Cuisine: American, Southern
Keywords: no-bake dessert, pecan pie balls, chocolate-coated treats, holiday snacks, bite-sized sweets