Pecan Pie Balls

Introduction

If you adore the rich, nutty flavor of classic pecan pie but want something easier to serve and even more irresistible, Pecan Pie Balls are the perfect solution. These elegant, bite-sized treats capture everything you love about pecan pie—the caramel-like sweetness, buttery pecans, and warm vanilla notes—wrapped in a tender pastry shell and finished with a smooth chocolate coating.

Perfect for holidays, parties, or gifting, pecan pie balls deliver all the indulgence of the traditional dessert without the need for slicing or plates. One bite, and you’ll understand why they disappear so quickly.

Ingredients

For the Pecan Pie Filling

• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Dough

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Coating

• 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for smoothness)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Make the Pecan Pie Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans.
4. Let the mixture cool until firm enough to handle.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
2. Add cold butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter or fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gently press the dough together into a ball.
4. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Pecan Pie Balls

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls and flatten slightly.
3. Place 1 teaspoon of pecan filling in the center.
4. Wrap dough around the filling and gently roll into a smooth ball.
5. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until lightly golden.
7. Cool completely before coating.

Step 4: Chocolate Coating

1. Melt chocolate with coconut oil in short intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Dip each cooled ball into the chocolate, coating evenly.
3. Return to parchment paper and optionally sprinkle with chopped pecans.
4. Let set at room temperature or chill for 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Store

Once the chocolate has set, your pecan pie balls are ready to enjoy.

• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week

Tips for Success

• Chill everything: Cold dough is easier to handle and bakes better
• Use quality chocolate for a smoother, shinier coating
• Too sticky? Chill the pecan filling briefly before assembling
• Decorative touch: Drizzle with white chocolate or dust lightly with powdered sugar

Why You’ll Love Them

Pecan Pie Balls deliver the soul of a classic Southern dessert in a modern, handheld form. Buttery pastry, gooey pecan filling, and rich chocolate create an irresistible balance of textures and flavors. They’re elegant, festive, and surprisingly easy to make—perfect for sharing or savoring one indulgent bite at a time.

Once you try them, these little treats are guaranteed to become a holiday and party favorite. 🥧🍫✨