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Pecan Pie Balls Recipe

4.8 from 89 reviews

These Pecan Pie Balls are a delicious, bite-sized dessert that captures the classic flavors of pecan pie with a rich, buttery, and sweet filling coated in smooth semi-sweet chocolate. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these treats combine a crunchy pecan and graham cracker base with the indulgence of chocolate coating, creating a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.

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 to combine the dry ingredients evenly. In a separate bowl, cream softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract using a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold together with a spatula until thick and slightly sticky, adding more maple syrup if too dry. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
  2. Roll the Balls: Remove the chilled mixture from the refrigerator. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, form the mixture into uniform balls. Place them spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate again for 30 minutes to firm.
  3. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Add a teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil if the chocolate is too thick.
  4. Coat the Balls: Dip each chilled pecan pie ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or toothpick to coat completely. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing back on the parchment-lined sheet. Sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top while the chocolate is still wet. Repeat until all balls are coated. Reheat chocolate as needed to keep it melted.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the chocolate-coated pecan pie balls for about 30 minutes to set the chocolate completely. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy as is or pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Notes

  • Use a small cookie scoop for consistent ball sizes.
  • Add additional maple syrup by teaspoon if the mixture feels dry.
  • To thin melted chocolate, add a small amount of coconut or vegetable oil.
  • Try rolling balls in crushed graham crackers or chocolate sprinkles for a variation.
  • Optional: Add a splash of bourbon or sprinkle sea salt to the mixture for a unique twist.
  • Store 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, holiday treats, bite-sized desserts, easy dessert recipe