Dessert

Pecan Pie Balls: No-Bake Holiday Treats Recipe

ByZoe Lane November 22, 2025November 22, 2025

Introduction

Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful no-bake treat that captures the rich, nutty flavors of classic pecan pie in a bite-sized form. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion, these sweet morsels are easy to make and fun to share.

A close-up view of round chocolate-covered treats stacked on a white plate set on a white marbled texture. Each treat is smooth and shiny dark brown chocolate on the outside with a pecan half placed on top. Two treats at the front are cut in half showing a dense filling made of sticky light brown caramel mixed with chopped pecans. The whole scene is softly lit with a blurred green and brown background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup pecans, finely chopped
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating)
Extra chopped pecans (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or whisk.
Step 3: Pour the butter mixture into the dry ingredients and fold together with a spatula until the mixture is thick and slightly sticky. Add more maple syrup, one teaspoon at a time, if the mixture is too dry.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
Step 5: Once chilled, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
Step 6: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Step 7: Dip each ball into the melted chocolate to coat completely, then place back on the parchment paper. Immediately sprinkle with extra chopped pecans for garnish.
Step 8: Refrigerate the coated balls for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor, try using honey instead of maple syrup or adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
Substitute dark chocolate for a richer coating or white chocolate for a sweeter option.
Roll balls in crushed pecans or shredded coconut instead of coating them in chocolate for a lighter treat.

Storage

Store pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before serving. Reheat is not recommended to preserve the texture of the chocolate coating.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a pile of round chocolate truffles, each coated smoothly in dark chocolate with a whole pecan half pressed on top. The truffles show a rich, glossy dark brown shell with fine ridges. One truffle is cut open in front, revealing a soft, golden brown filling mixed with small chopped pecans inside. The texture inside looks chewy and nutty, contrasting with the smooth chocolate outside. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with some blurred nuts in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make pecan pie balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day or two in advance and keep them refrigerated. This actually helps the flavors develop and makes them easier to serve at parties.

Are pecan pie balls gluten-free?

Traditional graham cracker crumbs contain gluten, but you can substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.