Easy and Sweet Pecan Pie Balls Recipe
Easy and sweet pecan pie balls are the perfect bite sized treat for anyone who loves the rich flavor of traditional pecan pie but wants a quicker and simpler option. These little delights are packed with nutty crunch, caramel like sweetness, and a melt in your mouth texture that makes them irresistible. They are no bake, easy to assemble, and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday snacking.
What makes pecan pie balls so special is their versatility. They can be enjoyed as a dessert, a quick snack, or even as part of a festive cookie tray. They require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor, giving you the same satisfaction as a slice of pecan pie without the time and work of baking a full pie. This recipe is beginner friendly, fun to prepare, and guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Why You Need This Recipe
You need this recipe because it combines the nostalgic flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of no bake dessert balls. It is quick, easy, and requires only a few ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. The bite sized portions make them perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a portion controlled treat. Unlike traditional pie, these can be prepared in advance, stored for days, and still taste fresh and delicious. If you want a dessert that is simple, elegant, and crowd pleasing, pecan pie balls are the answer.
Ingredients
These pecan pie balls are made with a handful of simple ingredients that come together for a rich, sweet, and nutty flavor. Below is a table with the ingredients and approximate calorie counts
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Pecan halves | 2 cups | 1370 |
| Graham cracker crumbs | 1 cup | 440 |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup | 415 |
| Maple syrup | ¼ cup | 210 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | 0 |
| Chocolate (for coating) | 1 cup | 800 |
How to Prepare
To prepare pecan pie balls, start by finely chopping the pecans or pulsing them in a food processor until they are small pieces but not completely ground. In a large bowl, combine the pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract until the mixture comes together and can be pressed into a ball. Using your hands, roll small portions of the mixture into bite sized balls and place them on a parchment lined tray. Melt the chocolate in a microwave or double boiler until smooth, then dip each ball into the chocolate to fully coat or drizzle lightly over the top for a decorative finish. Let the coated pecan pie balls set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm.
Pro Tips
Toast the pecans before chopping them to enhance their flavor and give the balls a deeper nutty taste. Use good quality chocolate for coating, as it makes a big difference in flavor. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little extra maple syrup to help it bind. For easier dipping, chill the rolled balls in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes before coating in chocolate. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and firm for up to a week.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Pecan pie balls pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For a festive touch, drizzle white chocolate or sprinkle crushed pecans over the top while the chocolate coating is still soft. They also look great on a holiday dessert platter alongside cookies and truffles. You can serve them in mini cupcake liners for an elegant presentation or package them in small boxes as edible gifts for friends and family.
Conclusion
Easy and sweet pecan pie balls are a simple yet impressive dessert that brings all the flavours of classic pecan pie into a fun, bite sized treat. They are quick to prepare, no bake, and versatile enough for holidays, parties, or everyday indulgence. With their nutty crunch and sweet chocolate coating, these little treats are sure to become a favourite you will make again and again.
