Introduction

Pecan Pie Balls are a delicious no-bake treat that captures all the rich, nutty flavors of classic pecan pie in a fun, bite-sized form. Perfect for the holidays or any festive occasion, these sweet morsels are easy to make and ideal for sharing with friends and family.

A pile of round chocolate-covered truffles sits in the center of a white plate on a white marbled surface. Each truffle is smooth and shiny with thin grooves running vertically around them, topped with a whole pecan half. Two truffles are cut open at the front to show the inside, filled with a mix of chopped pecans and a sticky, caramel-like filling creating a rough, nutty texture in warm brown and golden tones. The background is softly blurred, highlighting the rich colors and details of the truffles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup pecans, finely chopped
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating)
Extra chopped pecans (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or whisk.
Step 3: Pour the butter mixture into the dry ingredients and fold with a spatula until a thick, slightly sticky mixture forms. Add more maple syrup if needed to reach the right consistency.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
Step 5: Scoop about one tablespoon of the chilled mixture and roll it into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
Step 6: Refrigerate the rolled balls for another 30 minutes to make coating easier.
Step 7: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Add a teaspoon of oil if the chocolate is too thick.
Step 8: Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or toothpick, letting excess drip off before placing back on the parchment-lined sheet. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top while the chocolate is wet, if desired.
Step 9: Repeat the coating process for all the balls, reheating chocolate as needed to maintain stirring consistency.
Step 10: Refrigerate all coated balls for 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use a small cookie scoop for uniform-sized balls to ensure even chilling and coating.
For a vegan option, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
If the mixture is too dry, add maple syrup one teaspoon at a time until just sticky enough to roll.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the chocolate before it sets to enhance the flavors.

Storage

Store pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture. These treats also freeze well; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

How to Serve

The image shows several round chocolate-covered balls on a white plate, each with a smooth, shiny brown chocolate outer layer decorated with thin chocolate lines running around them. Two of the balls are cut in half, revealing a dense, chunky interior filled with mixed nuts including pecans, which have warm brown and beige colors with a rough texture. One whole pecan lies next to the cut pieces on the plate. The background is softly blurred, with a white marbled surface underneath the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute, but pecans provide the classic flavor that’s traditional for this dessert.

Do I have to refrigerate the pecan pie balls?

Refrigerating helps the balls firm up and keeps the chocolate coating crisp. It is recommended to store and chill them in the fridge before serving.