Here is a classic recipe for Pecan Pie Balls. They are a no-bake, bite-sized dessert that tastes exactly like the gooey, nutty center of a pecan pie.
They are perfect for holiday cookie trays, gifts, or a quick sweet fix.
Pecan Pie Balls
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24-30 balls
Ingredients
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2 cups pecan pieces (finely chopped in a food processor)
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 1 sleeve of crackers)
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½ cup light corn syrup (or honey or maple syrup for a different flavor)
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¼ cup brown sugar, packed
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling, optional)
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Whole pecans or extra chopped pecans (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the pecans:
In a food processor, pulse 1 ½ cups of the pecan pieces until they are finely ground (but not turning into butter). Set aside the remaining ½ cup of coarsely chopped pecans to mix in later for texture.
2. Combine dry ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely ground pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add wet ingredients:
Pour in the melted butter, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until all the dry ingredients are fully moistened and the mixture holds together when pressed between your fingers. Fold in the remaining ½ cup of coarsely chopped pecans for extra crunch.
4. Form the balls:
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them tightly between your palms to form 1-inch balls. If the mixture feels too sticky to roll, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes first.
5. Coat (optional):
Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll each ball in the sugar to coat evenly. Alternatively, you can press a whole pecan half into the top of each ball for a classic pecan pie look.
6. Chill:
Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months (freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag).
Variations
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Bourbon Pecan Balls: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the wet ingredients and reduce the corn syrup by 1 tablespoon.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After chilling, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the top.
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Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free graham crackers.