Description
Pecan pie balls are a delicious, no-bake dessert that captures the rich, caramel-like flavors of traditional pecan pie—without the need for an oven. Made with toasted pecans, graham crackers, brown sugar, and maple syrup, these bite-sized treats are coated in smooth, melted chocolate for the perfect sweet indulgence. Ideal for holiday gatherings, gifts, or quick treats, they’re easy to customize and incredibly simple to make!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups pecan halves (toasted for deeper flavor)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 cup dark chocolate (for dipping and coating)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add pecans and stir constantly for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool before grinding.
- Blend the Dry Ingredients: In a food processor, pulse the toasted pecans, graham cracker crumbs, and brown sugar until finely ground. Alternatively, place them in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture holds together. If too dry, add more maple syrup, one teaspoon at a time.
- Roll into Balls: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough. Roll into 1-inch balls between your palms and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill for Firmness: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the balls hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Dip in Chocolate: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled pecan ball into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place them back onto parchment paper. Optionally, sprinkle with sea salt or crushed pecans before the chocolate hardens.
- Let Set & Enjoy: Allow the chocolate to fully harden at room temperature or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
-
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
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Flavor Variations:
- Bourbon Pecan Pie Balls: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon for a boozy kick.
- White Chocolate Coating: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate.
- Pumpkin Spice Twist: Mix in ½ teaspoon of pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired treat.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel over the chocolate coating.
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Dietary Adaptations:
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free chocolate.
- Nut-Free: Replace pecans with toasted sunflower seeds or oats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
- Category: breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pecan pie ball
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 2g