These Pecan Pie Balls are an easy, no-bake treat that packs all the flavors of a classic pecan pie into bite-sized goodness! Made with toasted pecans, maple syrup, and graham cracker crumbs, they’re sweet, nutty, and perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or when you need a quick dessert fix.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecans, toasted and finely chopped
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ¼ cup apple juice (or bourbon for a boozy twist)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes
- Powdered sugar for rolling
- Melted chocolate for dipping or drizzling
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Simplicity: Quick and easy with no oven required.
- Perfect for Gifting: Cute, bite-sized treats that look great in a holiday tin.
- Customizable: Add bourbon for an adult-friendly version or skip for family-friendly bites.
- Rich and Flavorful: Tastes just like pecan pie, but without the hassle of baking.
How to Make Pecan Pie Balls
1. Toast the Pecans
- Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let them cool, then finely chop.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until well blended.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
- Add the maple syrup, apple juice (or bourbon), and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough.
4. Roll into Balls
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Optional Finishes
- Roll the balls in powdered sugar for a festive touch, or dip them in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
6. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the pecan pie balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Holiday Treat: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion.
- For Gifting: Pack in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with a ribbon.
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy as a sweet snack alongside your favorite hot beverage.
Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Balls
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting enhances the flavor and gives a richer, nuttier taste.
- Adjust Sweetness: Add a drizzle of honey or extra maple syrup for a sweeter version.
- Consistency is Key: If the mixture is too dry, add more apple juice or bourbon 1 teaspoon at a time. If it’s too wet, stir in additional graham cracker crumbs.
- Chill Before Dipping: If dipping in chocolate, chill the balls first to help the chocolate set faster.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Final Thoughts
These Pecan Pie Balls (No-Bake) are a fun and festive dessert that captures all the classic flavors of pecan pie in a portable, no-fuss format. Whether you make them for the holidays or as a sweet snack, they’re sure to be a hit!
Let me know how yours turn out—and don’t forget to share your favorite garnishes or tweaks! 🥧✨