Description
Pecan Pie Balls are delightful no-bake treats that combine the rich flavors of pecans, brown sugar, and maple syrup, coated in a luscious chocolate almond bark. Perfect for holidays or anytime you crave a bite-sized dessert, these easy-to-make balls offer a deliciously nutty and sweet experience with minimal prep and no baking required.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pecan Mixture
- 2½ cups finely chopped pecan halves
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 4 to 6 Tbsp melted butter (as needed)
For Coating
- 1 (24-oz) package chocolate almond bark
Instructions
- Prepare Pecan Mixture: In a large bowl, combine finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Add Butter: Gradually add melted butter to the mixture just until it holds together easily and can be shaped. You may not need to use all the butter, depending on how finely the ingredients are chopped.
- Shape Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls, ensuring they are compact and smooth.
- Chill Balls: Place the formed pecan balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate or freeze them for about an hour to firm up before dipping.
- Melt Chocolate: Meanwhile, melt the chocolate almond bark according to package instructions, either in a microwave or double boiler, stirring until smooth.
- Dip Balls in Chocolate: Remove pecan balls from the freezer or refrigerator and dip each one into the melted almond bark, coating them evenly.
- Set Chocolate: Place the coated balls onto parchment or wax paper and allow the chocolate coating to set completely at room temperature.
Notes
- If the pecan mixture is too crumbly, add more melted butter a tablespoon at a time until it holds together.
- These balls can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one week.
- To quicken the chocolate setting process, refrigerate the dipped balls.
- Substitute chocolate almond bark with good quality melting chocolate if preferred.
- For added texture, lightly toast the pecans before chopping.
