Pecan Pie Balls: Bite-Sized Holiday Indulgence

There’s a certain magic that comes with small, sweet treats, especially when they carry all the flavors of a classic dessert in a perfectly bite-sized form. Pecan Pie Balls are one of those treats that instantly transport me back to cozy holiday afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of brown sugar and toasted pecans would fill the room, and I’d eagerly wait for the chocolate coating to harden so I could sneak one—or three!—before dinner. There’s something comforting about creating desserts that are both nostalgic and fun to eat, especially when they’re as simple to make as these little bites of heaven.

What I love about these Pecan Pie Balls is that they capture the richness of traditional pecan pie without the fuss of baking a whole pie. The combination of graham cracker crumbs, maple syrup, and pecans gives them a sweet, nutty flavor, while the chocolate almond bark coating adds a silky, indulgent finish. They’re perfect for gifting, sharing at holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a chilly afternoon. And because they’re small and portable, they’re ideal for packing in lunchboxes or leaving out for Santa—yes, they’re that good.

Making these Pecan Pie Balls is almost therapeutic. Rolling the dough into uniform balls, melting the chocolate, and dipping each piece creates a rhythm that’s both calming and satisfying. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, these treats are forgiving and easy to assemble, making them a perfect weekend project. Every bite delivers a little crunch, a touch of sweetness, and a whole lot of joy—a true crowd-pleaser.

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Pecan Pie Balls

Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

• 2 ½ cups pecan halves, finely chopped

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 6 to 8 tbsp melted butter

• ½ cup pure maple syrup

• 24 ounces chocolate almond bark

Instructions

FIRST STEP:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham crackers, brown sugar, maple syrup and the chopped pecans.
Add only enough of the melted butter so the mix comes together and can be rolled into a ball without falling apart

SECOND STEP:
Shape the mix into 1 inch sized balls and set on a tray lined with parchment paper
When all dough is rolled, set the tray into the refrigerator or the freezer for one hour

THIRD STEP:
Melt the almond bark according to package directions

FOURTH STEP:
Dip each one of the pecan pie balls into the melted chocolate and place back onto the parchment covered tray
Let sit until the chocolate hardens

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Cooking Tips and Substitutions

For extra flavor, lightly toast the pecans before chopping—they’ll release a richer, nuttier aroma. If you’d like a slightly softer ball, use 6 tablespoons of melted butter; for firmer balls, use 8 tablespoons. You can substitute the chocolate almond bark with high-quality dark or milk chocolate, depending on your preference. If you like a little variety, drizzle some white chocolate over the dipped balls for a decorative touch.

For maple syrup alternatives, try honey or agave syrup for a slightly different sweetness profile. When rolling the balls, lightly grease your hands with butter or coat them with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

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Serving Ideas and Occasions

Pecan Pie Balls are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect as a holiday treat, an after-dinner dessert, or a sweet addition to your dessert buffet. You can serve them on a decorative plate, place them in mini cupcake liners for a party, or package them in small gift boxes for friends and family. Pair them with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a comforting snack. Their compact size also makes them ideal for lunchboxes or as a portable treat for picnics.

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Storage and Freezing Tips

Store Pecan Pie Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for up to three months—simply thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Proper storage ensures the chocolate coating remains firm and the nutty filling stays fresh.

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FAQ

Q: Can I make these nut-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or roasted chickpeas for a nut-free version while keeping the texture crunchy.

Q: Can I use another type of chocolate for dipping?
A: Absolutely. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even flavored chocolate works. Mix and match for creative variations.

Q: How can I make them spicier or add extra flavor?
A: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the mixture enhances flavor. You can also try adding a few drops of almond extract instead of vanilla.

Q: Can I prepare them ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the balls and store them uncoated in the refrigerator for a day, then dip them in chocolate when ready to serve.