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 parties, gifts, or whenever you crave a sweet and nutty indulgence.

The image shows a close-up of round chocolate-covered treats on a white plate with a white marbled background. Each treat has a smooth milk chocolate outer layer with thin chocolate lines running across the surface, adding texture. One treat is cut in half, revealing a dense inner layer filled with small, chopped pieces of mixed nuts in shades of light brown and dark brown, tightly packed inside. A pecan nut is placed near the bottom right corner of the plate, emphasizing the nutty ingredients inside the treats. The lighting is soft, giving a warm and appetizing look to the chocolate and nuts. 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 and combine the finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract using a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Pour the butter mixture into the dry ingredients and fold together with a spatula until the mixture is thick and slightly sticky. Add extra maple syrup one teaspoon at a time if too dry.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
Step 5: Remove from the fridge and scoop about a tablespoon of mixture. Roll into balls by hand or with a small cookie scoop and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Step 6: Refrigerate the balls for another 30 minutes to firm them up before coating.
Step 7: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Add a teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil if the chocolate is too thick.
Step 8: Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or toothpick, coating completely. Let excess chocolate drip off, then place back on the parchment-lined sheet. Sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top if desired.
Step 9: Repeat until all balls are coated. Reheat chocolate briefly if it hardens during dipping.
Step 10: Refrigerate the coated balls for about 30 minutes until the chocolate is fully set before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use a small cookie scoop to keep all your pecan pie balls uniform in size for even chilling and coating.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a warm or spicy twist.
Substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.
For a glossy chocolate coating, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil before dipping.
Store the balls on parchment to prevent sticking after coating.

Storage

Store pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months and thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat chilled balls slightly at room temperature to soften the chocolate coating if preferred.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a pile of round chocolate-covered treats, each topped with a single whole pecan that has a smooth, light brown texture with natural ridges. The treats have a glossy, rich dark brown chocolate outer layer that looks smooth with slight ripples. One treat is cut open in the front, showing a dense inside filled with finely chopped nuts in shades of golden and reddish brown mixed in a sticky, golden syrup-like filling with a rough texture. The pile is arranged so half of the cut pieces face forward, making the layers and textures visible, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes and will provide a slightly different but delicious flavor and texture.

What can I do if the chocolate seizes while melting?

If your chocolate becomes grainy or seizes, add a small amount (about a teaspoon) of vegetable oil or coconut oil and gently stir to smooth it out.