Pecan Pie Balls Recipe
Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful no-bake treat that combines the rich flavors of pecans, chocolate, and maple syrup into bite-sized balls. Coated in melted semi-sweet chocolate and garnished with extra chopped pecans, these sweet snacks are perfect for an easy dessert or festive snack that requires no oven time.
- Author: lucas
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main 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 and Garnish
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating)
- Extra chopped pecans (for garnish)
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients on the counter to ensure everything is ready and accessible before starting.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk together until well blended to distribute flavors evenly.
- Cream Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract together using a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the creamed wet ingredients into the dry ingredient bowl. Use a spatula to fold everything together until you have a thick, slightly sticky mixture. If too dry, add maple syrup one teaspoon at a time until reaching the desired consistency.
- Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up the mixture, making it easier to roll into balls.
- Form Balls: After chilling, roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips until smooth and glossy, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Coat the Balls: Dip each ball individually into the melted chocolate, using a fork or skewer to fully coat it. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing back on parchment paper.
- Garnish: Immediately sprinkle extra chopped pecans over the chocolate-coated balls before the coating sets to add texture and flavor.
- Set and Serve: Refrigerate the coated pecan balls for about 20 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delicious snack or dessert.
Notes
- If mixture is too sticky to handle after chilling, lightly wet your hands with water to prevent sticking while rolling.
- For a sweeter coating, use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
- Store pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- These treats also freeze well; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Use high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor depth.
Keywords: pecan pie balls, no bake dessert, pecan treats, chocolate coated balls, easy dessert, holiday snacks