These delicious pecan pie balls are the perfect bite-sized treats for any occasion. Packed with the rich flavor of toasted pecans, dates, and graham cracker crumbs, they’re coated in finely chopped pecans for an irresistible crunch. Easy to make and no baking required, these treats are ideal for holiday parties or just as a sweet snack!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup finely chopped dates
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans (for coating)
Instructions
Toast the Pecan Halves:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast them for about 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Let them cool completely.
Prepare the Mixture:
- In a food processor, pulse the toasted pecan halves until finely chopped.
- Transfer them to a large bowl. Add the graham cracker crumbs and finely chopped dates, and mix until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a small saucepan, combine the light corn syrup and brown sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Mix Everything Together:
- Pour the warm syrup mixture over the pecan and graham cracker mixture.
- Stir until everything is well coated and combined.
Shape into Balls:
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Coat with Pecans:
- Roll each ball in the finely chopped pecans until fully coated.
Chill and Set:
- Refrigerate the pecan pie balls for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.
Notes
- These pecan pie balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead treat.
- For added flavor, you can drizzle them with melted chocolate or dust them with powdered sugar before serving.
- If you don’t have dates, you can substitute them with raisins or dried figs.
FAQs
- Can I freeze pecan pie balls? Yes! You can freeze them in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving.
- Can I use honey instead of corn syrup? Yes, but keep in mind that honey has a distinct flavor and may slightly alter the taste of the pecan pie balls.
- What can I use if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs? You can substitute crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafers for a different twist.
Conclusion
Pecan pie balls are a simple, no-bake treat that packs all the flavor of pecan pie into bite-sized morsels. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just craving a sweet snack, these easy-to-make bites are sure to be a hit. Give them a try, and enjoy the perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and nutty flavors!
