If you adore the sweet, nutty flavor of pecan pie but want a bite-sized treat, these Pecan Pie Balls are the perfect dessert. These delightful no-bake goodies capture the essence of a pecan pie in a convenient, poppable form. They’re easy to make and ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something sweet!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Food processor or nut grinder
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients Overview
- Pecans: Provide the signature crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting them enhances their richness.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Add structure and a slight sweetness.
- Brown Sugar: For that classic caramel-like pecan pie sweetness.
- Corn Syrup: Binds the mixture and mimics the gooey texture of pecan pie filling.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: Helps with sweetness and rolling the balls.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pecans
- Lightly toast 1 ½ cups of pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently. Let them cool.
- Chop the pecans finely using a food processor or knife.
2. Mix the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped pecans, 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, and ½ cup of brown sugar.
- Stir in ½ cup of corn syrup and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients form a sticky, cohesive dough.
3. Shape the Balls
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the mixture. Roll it between your hands to form small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Coat the Balls
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar until evenly coated. For extra sweetness, you can dip them in melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the top.
5. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the pecan pie balls for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Recipe Tips
- Make them ahead: These can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Toast the pecans: Toasting brings out a deeper nutty flavor, making these even more irresistible.
- Double the batch: These disappear quickly, so consider making extra!
What to Serve With This Recipe
- A warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa
- Vanilla ice cream on the side for a decadent pairing
- A glass of milk for a simple, satisfying treat
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze pecan pie balls?
Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use something other than corn syrup?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used, though they will slightly alter the flavor.
Do I need to toast the pecans?
Toasting is optional but highly recommended for a deeper flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups pecans, toasted and finely chopped
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup corn syrup (or honey/maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Toast and chop pecans.
- Mix pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla in a bowl until sticky dough forms.
- Roll into 1-inch balls and coat in powdered sugar.
- Chill for 1 hour before serving.
Enjoy these sweet, nutty Pecan Pie Balls as a delightful dessert or snack that’s sure to impress!
e Pecan Pie Balls
Equipment
- Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Food processor or nut grinder
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups pecans toasted and finely chopped
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup corn syrup or honey/maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Toast and chop pecans.
- Mix pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla in a bowl until sticky dough forms.
- Roll into 1-inch balls and coat in powdered sugar.
- Chill for 1 hour before serving.
- Enjoy these sweet, nutty Pecan Pie Balls as a delightful dessert or snack that’s sure to impress!
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