If you love pecan pie but don’t want to go through the hassle of making a whole pie, these Pecan Pie Balls are the perfect alternative. They’re bite-sized treats that capture all the flavors of a traditional pecan pie—rich, buttery, nutty, and perfectly sweet. These no-bake goodies are easy to prepare and make an excellent addition to holiday platters, parties, or just an everyday indulgence. Let’s get into how to make these delicious treats!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Pecan Pie Balls
- Instructions for Pecan Pie Balls
- Cooking Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Balls
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for coating, optional)
Instructions for Pecan Pie Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture comes together like a dough.
Step 2: Form the Balls
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Coat with Powdered Sugar (Optional)
- If desired, roll each pecan pie ball in powdered sugar to coat. This adds extra sweetness and gives them a pretty finish.
Step 4: Chill
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the pecan pie balls for at least 1-2 hours to firm up before serving.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the pecan pie balls chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy these sweet, nutty bites!
Cooking Notes & Tips
- Crushing Graham Crackers: You can crush the graham crackers using a food processor or place them in a resealable plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you have fine crumbs.
- Consistency: If the mixture is too sticky, add a bit more crushed graham crackers. If it’s too dry, add a bit more corn syrup until it comes together like a dough.
- Storage: Store the pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Chocolate-Coated Pecan Pie Balls: For a decadent twist, dip the chilled pecan pie balls in melted chocolate. Let the chocolate set before serving.
- Bourbon Pecan Pie Balls: Add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon to the mixture for a boozy version. You may need to add a bit more graham cracker crumbs to maintain the right consistency.
- No Corn Syrup: Substitute the corn syrup with honey or maple syrup if preferred, though the texture may vary slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these pecan pie balls in advance?
Yes, these pecan pie balls are perfect for making ahead. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
2. Do I need to bake these pecan pie balls?
No, this is a no-bake recipe. Simply mix, form, chill, and enjoy!
3. Can I use different nuts?
While pecans are traditional for that classic pecan pie flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds if desired. The taste will be slightly different but still delicious.
4. How do I keep the mixture from being too sticky?
If the mixture feels too sticky, you can add a bit more crushed graham crackers until it’s easier to handle.
These Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of pecan pie without the fuss of baking an entire pie. They’re simple to make, wonderfully sweet, and have that perfect nutty crunch that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a party, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit. Give this easy recipe a try, and let us know how you liked it!
Happy snacking, and enjoy every sweet bite of these delicious pecan pie treats!
