Introduction

Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining rich pecan flavor with a smooth chocolate coating. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a sweet, easy-to-eat indulgence.

The image shows several round chocolate-covered treats on a white plate, placed on a white marbled texture. Each treat has a smooth, shiny milk chocolate outer layer with thin chocolate lines wrapped around it. Two of the treats are cut in half, revealing the inside filled with small pieces of nuts in shades of light beige and dark brown, tightly packed together. A whole pecan nut lies next to the treats on the plate. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup pecans, finely chopped
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating)
Extra chopped pecans (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients on the counter for easy access.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or whisk.
Step 4: Pour the butter mixture into the dry ingredients and fold together with a spatula until the mixture is thick and slightly sticky. Add more maple syrup, one teaspoon at a time, if needed for consistency.
Step 5: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 6: After chilling, scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Step 7: Refrigerate the rolled balls for another 30 minutes to firm up further.
Step 8: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth. Add a teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil if the chocolate is too thick.
Step 9: Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or toothpick, coating completely. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing back on the parchment.
Step 10: Sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top of the chocolate while it is still wet, if desired.
Step 11: Repeat coating for all balls, reheating chocolate if it begins to harden.
Step 12: Chill the coated pecan pie balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until the chocolate sets completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use a small cookie scoop to ensure uniform-sized balls for even chilling and coating.
Substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
For extra crunch, add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate coating before it sets.
Try white chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter, creamier coating.

Storage

Store pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, allow them to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as reheating the chocolate coating is not recommended. These treats can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

A white plate holds seven round chocolate-covered treats arranged in a small pile, with smooth, shiny dark brown chocolate coating all but one, which is cut open to show its inside. Each whole treat is topped with a single, light brown pecan half with visible ridges, sitting on the top center. Inside the cut-open piece, there is a textured mix of chopped nuts and a light caramel or sugary filling, showing rough, uneven nut pieces in golden brown tones. The plate is on a white marbled surface, softly blurred green and brown colors appear in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make pecan pie balls without a microwave?

Yes, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove. Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl over simmering water and stir until smooth.

Are pecan pie balls gluten-free?

The recipe as written includes graham cracker crumbs, which typically contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or finely ground gluten-free cookies.