Pecan Pie Balls Chocolate Treats

These pecan pie balls capture all the cozy flavors of a traditional Southern pecan pie in an easy bite-sized treat. With a chewy, sweet center filled with toasted pecans and brown sugar, dipped in rich chocolate, they make an ideal make-ahead dessert for parties or a quick indulgence any time you crave homemade goodness.

I made these first for a holiday cookie swap when I had no time to bake and everyone asked for the recipe. Now they are my go-to treat for potlucks and neighbor gifts.

Ingredients

• Finely chopped pecans: choose fresh pecans and toast them to enhance their rich nutty flavor
• Graham cracker crumbs: these help bind the filling together and add toasty notes use a food processor or crush them well by hand
• Brown sugar: opt for dark brown for deeper molasses flavor
• Maple syrup or corn syrup: maple gives natural sweetness while corn syrup brings classic pecan pie taste
• Vanilla extract: pick pure extract for best aroma
• Salt: helps balance out the sweetness and bring all the flavors together
• Dark or milk chocolate chips for coating: choose high-quality or your favorite chocolate
• Coconut oil (optional): makes melted chocolate smoother and easier to dip

Step-by-Step Instructions

Toast the Pecans:

Spread chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes stirring a couple of times Use your nose to monitor once you smell a nutty aroma they are done Cool completely before using This deepens the flavor and keeps the pecans crunchy

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl add graham cracker crumbs brown sugar and salt Use a whisk or your clean hands to make sure everything is thoroughly combined The mix should look evenly colored

Add the Wet Ingredients:

Pour in vanilla extract and your chosen syrup If your brown sugar is clumpy break it up now Mix with a sturdy spatula or spoon until you have a sticky dough It should stick together when you press it

Shape the Balls:

Scoop about a tablespoon of mixture and press it together with your hands Roll gently to make a uniform ball Place each one on a parchment lined tray If the mixture seems dry squeeze it a bit more to get it to stick

Chill the Balls:

Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least one hour so the pecan balls become firm This step makes them much easier to coat in chocolate later

Coat in Chocolate:

Set up a bowl of chocolate chips and coconut oil if using Melt in the microwave in 20 second intervals stirring in between until glossy and smooth Drop each ball into the melted chocolate and use a fork to roll and lift out Shake off excess chocolate and place back on parchment paper

Let the Chocolate Harden:

Allow the chocolate coating to fully set before moving or serving To speed things up you can pop the tray back in the fridge

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Pecans have always reminded me of my grandma’s kitchen She would toast them for hours in the winter to fill the house with that roasty buttery aroma Making these bites always brings back those sweet memories

Storage Tips

Store pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the fridge They will keep fresh for up to one week or you can freeze them for up to a month Let them thaw in the fridge overnight or enjoy straight from the freezer for extra crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in honey or agave for the syrup if you like a different natural sweetener For extra richness add a spoonful of bourbon to the filling If pecans are hard to find try walnuts for a slightly different but still delicious result

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Serving Suggestions

Pile these on a pretty platter for a holiday dessert table Stack them in mason jars for a rustic gift and add a ribbon Or serve with strong coffee and slices of fresh fruit for a simple cozy dessert

The Southern Pecan Pie Tradition

Pecan pie is a staple in Southern kitchens especially around Thanksgiving and Christmas These ball-shaped treats are inspired by the gooey pie filling and make it portable and shareable Growing up in the South I always had pecan pie at family gatherings so transforming it into a no bake treat is my way of keeping the tradition alive and easy

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ How do you toast pecans for extra flavor?

Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant.

→ Can you use maple syrup instead of corn syrup?

Yes, maple syrup lends a natural sweetness, while corn syrup gives a classic pecan pie taste—use your preference.

→ How do you coat the balls with chocolate?

Melt chocolate chips (with optional coconut oil) and dip chilled pecan balls, letting them set on parchment until firm.

→ How should these treats be stored?

Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer freshness.

→ What garnishes work well with these chocolate bites?

Sprinkle sea salt or drizzle with white chocolate for added festive flair and extra flavor notes.