If you adore the rich, nutty flavors of classic pecan pie but want a fun, bite-sized twist, the Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe is here to steal your heart. These little gems combine the warm sweetness of pecans, brown sugar, and maple syrup with a luscious chocolate coating that makes for an irresistible indulgence any time of year. Perfectly portable and delightfully decadent, these no-bake treats are surprisingly simple to create yet impressive enough to share with friends or savor as your little secret.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe plays a crucial role, blending textures and flavors to create a harmony that’s both crunchy and creamy, sweet but balanced. These are straightforward pantry staples you’ll love working with because they come together so effortlessly yet create magic in every bite.
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans: Adds that signature nutty crunch and warms the flavor profile.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: Provides a subtly sweet base that mimics the crust of a traditional pecan pie.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes that enhance the overall sweetness naturally.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Infuses a rich, earthy sweetness and helps bind the mixture together effortlessly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds complexity and warmth, rounding out the taste beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional): For those who love a hint of spirited depth, bourbon adds a lovely warmth without overpowering.
- 8 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped or chips: Coats the truffles in smooth, rich chocolate that contrasts perfectly with the nutty filling.
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil: Ensures silky, glossy melted chocolate that’s easy to work with.
How to Make Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Start by combining the finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, maple syrup, salt, vanilla extract, and bourbon if you’re using it in a medium bowl. Mix everything together until you have a sticky, slightly crumbly dough. This mixture captures the essence of pecan pie with a dense, flavorful base that’s ready to become something extraordinary.
Step 2: Shape the Truffles
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. This size is perfect for a beautiful bite—just enough to taste all those layers at once. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet so they don’t stick and get ready for the chilling phase that helps set the texture.
Step 3: Chill Until Firm
Pop the tray of rolled truffles into the refrigerator and let them chill for at least one hour. This step is key because it firms up the filling and makes dipping in chocolate easier and less messy. Plus, it intensifies flavors as everything settles together.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate with the coconut or vegetable oil in 30-second intervals. Stir well between each interval until you achieve a smooth, glossy chocolate that’s perfect for dipping. The oil adds that shine and silky texture that makes the truffles look professionally finished.
Step 5: Dip and Decorate
Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each chilled pecan pie ball in the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Return the dipped truffles to the parchment-lined tray. For a special touch, sprinkle with some crushed pecans or a tiny pinch of sea salt before the chocolate hardens. These little adornments bring both visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor.
Step 6: Final Chill
Place the coated truffles back in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set and firm to the touch. Then, your delectable pecan pie truffles are ready to be enjoyed, stored, or gifted.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes to your pecan pie truffles elevates their presentation and taste. Sprinkle with crushed toasted pecans, a light dusting of cinnamon, or even a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt to bring out the chocolate and nutty flavors even more. These simple touches turn every bite into a flavor celebration.
Side Dishes
These truffles shine on their own but pair wonderfully with a cup of rich coffee, a mug of warm spiced cider, or even a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream if you want a fun dessert platter. Serving them alongside fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears, can add a crisp, refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gift-giving, try arranging the truffles in mini cupcake liners or decorative tins. You can also skewer a few on pretty toothpicks for a charming presentation that’s easy for guests to grab. Wrapping individual truffles in parchment paper tied with twine makes for sweet little favors that anyone would love to receive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their texture and flavor beautifully for up to one week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion.
Freezing
These truffles freeze exceptionally well. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll last up to two months and can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator for easy, anytime indulgence.
Reheating
Since pecan pie truffles are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, no reheating is necessary. Simply let frozen truffles thaw slowly in the fridge. Avoid heat to maintain their perfect texture and glossy chocolate coating.
FAQs
Can I make this Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe without alcohol?
Absolutely! The bourbon is optional and can be completely omitted to make a kid-friendly and alcohol-free version without compromising the delicious flavor.
Is it possible to use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey or corn syrup can be used as substitutes for maple syrup. Each will add a slightly different sweetness and texture, but the truffles will still be delightful.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet?
You can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will make the truffles sweeter and less rich. Dark or semi-sweet chocolate balances the sweetness of the filling best.
How long do these truffles keep at room temperature?
Since they contain nuts and a chocolate coating, it’s best to keep them refrigerated and not leave them out at room temperature for more than a couple of hours to maintain freshness and prevent melting.
Can I roll the filling balls bigger or smaller?
Yes, feel free to adjust the size to your liking. Just remember that smaller balls will chill and coat faster, while larger ones take more time to set and have a richer bite.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about these Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe that brings warmth and joy with every bite. Whether you’re crafting them for a holiday treat, a party favor, or a quiet moment of indulgence, they deliver big on flavor while being so simple to make. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear — you might just have found your new favorite sweet obsession.
Print
Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 truffles
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the rich, bite-sized goodness of Pecan Pie Truffles—a no-bake dessert that combines the nutty crunch of pecans with the sweetness of maple syrup and the indulgence of chocolate. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, decadent snack without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
Truffle Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional)
Chocolate Coating
- 8 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
Instructions
- Make the Truffle Base: In a medium bowl, combine finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, maple syrup, salt, vanilla extract, and bourbon if using. Mix thoroughly until a sticky, cohesive dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Truffles: Scoop the mixture using a spoon or cookie scoop and roll into 1-inch balls. Place these balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all are formed, chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm to help them set properly before coating.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted, taking care not to burn the chocolate.
- Coat the Truffles: Using a fork, dip each chilled truffle ball into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Set the coated truffles back onto the parchment-lined tray. Optionally, sprinkle with crushed pecans or sea salt while the chocolate is still wet for added texture and flavor.
- Set the Chocolate: Chill the coated truffles in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes or until the chocolate shell is firm. Keep stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve for optimal freshness and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute honey or corn syrup for the maple syrup according to your preference.
- For a kid-friendly version, omit the bourbon to keep it alcohol-free.
- These truffles freeze very well; store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months and thaw before serving.
