Description
A bite-sized twist on the classic pecan pie! These sweet, nutty, and chewy Pecan Pie Balls are pure nostalgia in every bite — no oven needed! Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime your sweet tooth calls.
Ingredients:
2 cups finely chopped pecans
1 cup crushed graham crackers
1 cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup maple syrup (or corn syrup)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together chopped pecans, crushed graham crackers, and brown sugar until evenly combined. (
3 minutes)
Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture, stirring well until a sticky dough forms. (
5 minutes)
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small 1-inch balls — just like truffles! (
7 minutes)
Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl and roll each ball to coat completely. (
3 minutes)
Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate to firm up. (
Chill for 1 hour)
Serve chilled or let them soften slightly at room temperature before enjoying that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness.
(
2 minutes)
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Tips:
For a deeper nutty flavor, toast your pecans before mixing.
Want extra sweetness? Add a drizzle of melted chocolate before serving!
#PecanPieBalls #NoBakeDessert #HolidayTreats #SweetToothDelight
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect no-bake pecan pie balls every time. First, ensure your pecans are very finely chopped. If toasting them for extra flavor, do so in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, then let them cool completely. In your large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the chopped pecans, crushed graham crackers, and packed brown sugar. This dry mix must be even. Next, add the maple syrup, vanilla, and salt. Stir vigorously until a thick, sticky dough forms and no dry patches remain. If the mixture seems too dry to hold together, add an extra tablespoon of syrup.
To form the balls, lightly dampen your hands with water to prevent sticking. Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll firmly between your palms into a smooth, 1-inch ball. Place each ball on a clean plate. Once all balls are formed, roll each one in the powdered sugar until heavily coated. For a thicker, snowball-like coating, you can roll them in powdered sugar a second time after the first coat sets slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile treats are perfect for a dessert platter. Serve them alongside coffee or after-dinner drinks. For a festive touch, arrange them in mini paper candy cups. They pair wonderfully with a cheese board, offering a sweet contrast to sharp cheddar. For a decadent finish, drizzle the finished balls with melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt.
How-to Summary
In summary, create these no-bake treats by mixing dry ingredients, binding them with syrup, rolling into balls, coating in powdered sugar, and chilling to set. The key steps are achieving a uniform sticky dough and a thorough chill for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup? Yes, honey can be used, but it has a stronger flavor that will come through. The texture may also be slightly stickier.
How long do these balls last in the fridge? Stored in an airtight container, they will keep well for up to 1 week. The powdered sugar coating may become less powdery over time.
Can I freeze them? Absolutely. Freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and re-roll in powdered sugar if needed.
My mixture is too crumbly. What can I do? This usually means the dough needs more binding liquid. Add an additional tablespoon of maple syrup and mix thoroughly until it holds together when pressed.
Are graham cracker crumbs essential? They provide structure and a classic flavor. For a gluten-free version, certified gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free vanilla cookies work well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using coarsely chopped pecans, as they will prevent the balls from holding their shape. Do not skip the chilling step; it is crucial for firming up the balls and allowing the flavors to meld. Rolling the balls in powdered sugar immediately after forming can cause the sugar to dissolve into a glaze; if this happens, simply give them a second coat after chilling. Finally, ensure your brown sugar is fresh and soft, not hard and clumpy, for even mixing.
Conclusion
These Pecan Pie Balls are a brilliant, no-fuss homage to a classic dessert. They deliver all the beloved sweet, nutty, and chewy flavors of pecan pie without turning on your oven. Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying a personal craving, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that proves great taste doesn’t have to be complicated.