Pecan Pie Balls

If you’re looking for a fun, bite-sized treat that captures all the warm, nutty richness of a classic pecan pie—without the hassle of baking a full pie—Pecan Pie Balls are the answer. These no-bake delights are loaded with finely chopped pecans, sweet graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and a touch of maple syrup, all brought together with butter and a hint of rum extract to deepen the flavor. Rolled into perfect little balls and coated in smooth melted chocolate, they offer the same cozy flavor as pecan pie but in a convenient, poppable form.

These treats are ideal for holidays, parties, dessert trays, or whenever a pecan craving hits. They’re easy to make ahead and store, require no oven time, and look just as impressive as they taste. The chocolate coating adds a luxurious finish and a slight crunch, making them as satisfying to bite into as they are flavorful. Whether you’re gifting them, serving them at a gathering, or just keeping them on hand for a sweet snack, these Pecan Pie Balls are a sure hit with minimal effort. Every bite delivers that rich, caramel-nut essence we all love in pecan pie—no fork required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. No Baking Required – Perfect for warm months or busy baking seasons.
2. Bite-Sized and Portable – Easy to serve, share, and snack on.
3. Rich, Nutty, and Sweet – Captures the flavor of pecan pie in every bite.
4. Great for Gifting – Makes a beautiful homemade treat for holidays and special occasions.
5. Easy to Make Ahead – Keeps well in the fridge or freezer, ideal for prepping in advance.

Ingredients

• Pecans, finely chopped
• Graham cracker crumbs
• Light brown sugar
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Pure maple syrup
• Rum extract
• Light corn syrup
• Semi-sweet chocolate baking bars

Variations

• Boozy Option: Substitute real rum for rum extract for an adult twist.
• Nut Mix: Mix in chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture.
• Spiced Version: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, fall-inspired notes.
• Vegan Friendly: Use dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of coating, drizzle chocolate over the top for a different look.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Mixture

In a bowl, combine finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and salt. Mix well.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in melted butter, maple syrup, corn syrup, and rum extract. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and sticky.

Step 3: Shape into Balls

Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.

Step 4: Chill the Balls

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before coating.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave or double boiler, melt the chocolate bars until smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Coat the Balls

Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place back on the parchment-lined tray.

Step 7: Set the Chocolate

Refrigerate until the chocolate is completely set, about 15–20 minutes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Toast the pecans beforehand for extra depth of flavor.
• Use a mini cookie scoop for evenly sized balls.
• If the mixture is too sticky to roll, chill it for 10–15 minutes before shaping.
• Line your tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Let the chocolate cool slightly before dipping to avoid a runny mess.

How to Serve

Serve these pecan pie balls as part of a dessert spread, on a holiday cookie tray, or in small treat bags as gifts. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or even a dessert wine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

No need to reheat! Just thaw frozen balls in the fridge overnight and enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, but maple syrup adds a more distinct flavor. Honey will make it sweeter and a bit thicker.

2. Do I have to use rum extract?

No, you can omit it or replace it with vanilla extract if preferred.

3. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely—dark chocolate adds a richer, more intense contrast to the sweet filling.

4. What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?

Crush your own graham crackers or substitute vanilla wafer crumbs.

5. Can I toast the pecans?

Yes, toasting them adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Just be careful not to burn them.

6. Are these gluten-free?

Not by default due to the graham crumbs, but you can use gluten-free alternatives.

7. Can kids help make these?

Yes! They’re fun to roll and dip, making them great for little hands (with supervision for melting chocolate).

8. How long do they last?

They’ll last up to a week in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

9. Can I use chocolate chips instead of baking bars?

Yes, just melt them slowly and consider adding a teaspoon of coconut oil for smoother dipping.

10. Do I need a food processor?

Not necessarily—just chop the pecans finely and crush the graham crackers well.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Balls are everything you love about traditional pecan pie—rich, nutty, sweet, and satisfying—but in an easy, no-bake format that’s perfect for parties, gifting, or just indulging at home. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of decadent, bite-sized treats that are sure to impress. Whether you make them once or add them to your holiday rotation, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite.

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