If you love pecan pie but don’t want the fuss of making a full pie, these Pecan Pie Balls are the perfect solution. They pack all the flavors of classic pecan pie—nutty, sweet, and buttery—into bite-sized treats. With no baking required, they’re quick, easy, and a total crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holidays, dessert platters, or even gifting, these little delights will disappear fast!
Why You’ll Love These
- No-Bake Treat – No oven required, just mix, roll, and chill.
- Holiday Favorite – Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering.
- Portable & Shareable – Great for cookie exchanges and party platters.
- Rich, Nutty Flavor – Tastes just like pecan pie in a bite-sized form.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Stores well in the fridge or freezer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup maple syrup (or corn syrup)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine chopped pecans, crushed graham crackers, and brown sugar.
- Add Wet Ingredients – Stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until mixture forms a sticky dough.
- Shape into Balls – Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into small balls.
- Coat in Sugar – Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Chill – Place on a lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Arrange on a holiday dessert platter with cookies and fudge.
- Pair with hot coffee, spiced tea, or a glass of milk.
- Wrap in festive tins or boxes for homemade holiday gifts.
- Serve as a bite-sized sweet at potlucks or parties.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Balls
- Toast the pecans lightly before chopping for extra flavor.
- If mixture is too sticky, chill dough for 15 minutes before rolling.
- For a festive touch, drizzle with melted chocolate instead of powdered sugar.
- Use high-quality maple syrup for the best taste.
Conclusion
These Pecan Pie Balls are the easiest way to enjoy the beloved flavors of pecan pie without baking. Sweet, nutty, and coated in powdered sugar, they’re a festive favorite that’s perfect for gifting, gatherings, or simply treating yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use honey instead of syrup?
Yes, but it will change the flavor slightly. Maple or corn syrup keeps it classic.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes, store them in the fridge to keep them fresh and firm.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely—they taste even better after a day or two.
What if I don’t have graham crackers?
Crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits work as a substitute.