Description
These pecan pie balls are a simple, bite-sized dessert delivering the warm, nutty goodness of traditional pecan pie with a satisfying, chewy texture, finished with an easy chocolate dip stripe. They are incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or family treats.
Ingredients
Scale
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (240g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
- 1.5 cups finely chopped pecans (170g)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs or shortbread crumbs (110g)
- 1 cup melting chocolate or chocolate chips (170g)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter (5ml)
Instructions
- Prepare Pecans: (Optional) Spread 1.5 cups finely chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet. Toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until deeply fragrant, then let them cool completely.
- Cream Butter And Sugar: In a large bowl, beat 0.5 cup (113g) softened unsalted butter with 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar for 2-3 minutes until the mixture looks light and fluffy.
- Add Flavors: Stir in 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract until just combined, ensuring the scent of vanilla is present.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Mix in the cooled pecans and 1 cup (110g) graham cracker crumbs thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and firm enough to roll without crumbling. If it looks too dry, splash in 1-2 tablespoons of milk to achieve the right consistency.
- Form The Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls using your hands.
- Chill Balls: Arrange the pecan pie balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm them up for easier dipping.
- Prepare Chocolate Dip Stripe: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup (170g) chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon (5ml) coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is smooth and glossy (about 1.5-2 minutes total).
- Dip And Stripe: Dip half of each chilled pecan pie ball into the melted chocolate. Alternatively, use a fork or spoon to generously drizzle chocolate over the balls for a beautiful stripe effect. Work quickly before the chocolate sets.
- Final Chill: Return the chocolate-dipped balls to the parchment-lined sheet and chill again until the chocolate is completely set, about 15-20 minutes. They’ll feel firm to the touch.
Notes
Toasting the pecans adds a richer flavor. Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for the correct texture. Chill the balls thoroughly before dipping in chocolate for a cleaner finish on the stripe. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 140 calories
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 7 mg
Keywords: easy dessert, pecan pie balls, chocolate dip, no-bake, party treat, family-friendly, vanilla, nutty, chewy