Description
Pecan Pie Balls are delightful bite-sized treats that capture the rich, nutty sweetness and buttery flavors of traditional pecan pie in a convenient, hand-held form. Perfect for holiday parties and gatherings, these easy-to-make balls combine toasted pecans, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla wrapped in a crisp coating of pie crust or cookie crumbs, with an optional chocolate dip for added decadence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pie crust crumbs or cookie crumbs
- Optional: 1/2 cup melted chocolate (for dipping or drizzling)
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: Gently toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become fragrant and slightly golden, enhancing their flavor and adding crunch.
- Prepare the Sweet Filling: In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract, mixing continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Combine Pecans and Filling: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the toasted pecans. Allow the mixture to cool slightly until it is pliable enough to handle but not fully set.
- Shape into Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls. Roll each ball evenly in pie crust crumbs or cookie crumbs to coat and maintain their shape.
- Optional Chocolate Dip: If desired, dip each pecan pie ball into melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set, adding a luxurious finish and sealing in moisture.
Notes
- Use fresh, raw pecans for best taste and crunch.
- Keep the filling mixture on low heat to avoid burning and maintain smoothness.
- Refrigerate the pecan pie balls for at least 30 minutes before serving to help them set.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking during the chocolate dipping or rolling process.
- Experiment with coatings such as crushed nuts, cinnamon sugar, or shredded coconut for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: pecan pie balls, holiday treats, bite-sized desserts, pecan pie recipe, no-bake pecan balls, gluten-free pecan dessert, holiday party snack
