These Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls are a festive, no-bake treat combining the cozy flavors of pecan pie with a hint of maple. Each bite-sized ball is coated in rich chocolate, making it a perfect holiday dessert, snack, or homemade gift. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, these pecan pie balls are sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and No-Bake: Quick to make with no baking required, which is ideal for busy holiday kitchens.
- Rich Pecan Pie Flavor: Full of classic pecan pie flavor with added maple sweetness.
- Perfect for Gifting: These bite-sized treats make a beautiful homemade holiday gift.
- Festive and Delicious: Dipped in chocolate and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed pecans, they’re a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 ½ cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6-8 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 24 oz chocolate almond bark (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, chopped pecans, brown sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, and maple syrup.
- Stir the mixture until everything is thoroughly combined and it holds together when pressed.
Step 2: Shape into Balls
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill the balls in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to firm them up, making them easier to dip.
Step 3: Dip in Chocolate
- Melt the chocolate almond bark according to the package instructions. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted.
- Dip each pecan pie ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Use a fork or dipping tool to lift each ball out of the chocolate, letting the excess drip off.
- Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Set and Decorate
- Let the chocolate-coated balls harden at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Optional: Before the chocolate sets completely, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or crushed pecans on top for added flavor and a festive look.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler for melting chocolate
- Fork or dipping tool for chocolate coating
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve these pecan pie balls at room temperature for the best flavor.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
- Extra Maple Flavor: Add an extra 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup for a stronger maple taste, but reduce the butter slightly to maintain the right consistency.
- Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced holiday twist.
- Dark Chocolate Coating: Substitute the almond bark with dark chocolate for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Bourbon Twist: Replace 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup with bourbon for an extra holiday kick.
Helpful Tips
- Firming Up: Make sure to chill the balls before dipping in chocolate, which helps them hold their shape.
- Smooth Chocolate Coating: Tap off excess chocolate after dipping to avoid pooling on the baking sheet.
- Decorate Quickly: Add any toppings, like sea salt or pecans, before the chocolate sets for the best presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use real maple syrup instead of imitation?
Yes, real maple syrup provides a more natural and rich flavor.
2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of chocolate almond bark?
Yes, milk chocolate works well for a sweeter flavor, but almond bark is typically easier to melt and coat.
3. How can I make these nut-free?
For a nut-free option, try substituting chopped pretzels for the pecans. The texture will change, but the sweet-salty flavor will still be delicious.
4. How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
Let the chocolate cool slightly after melting before dipping to reduce the chance of cracking.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These are perfect make-ahead treats. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
These Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful, easy holiday treat that captures all the best flavors of the season in one bite. They’re fun to make, easy to store, and the perfect addition to any dessert spread or gift box!
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Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls with a Maple Twist
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 30 Balls 1x
Description
Oh, dears, these are pure holiday magic! Crunchy pecans, a hint of maple, and a rich chocolate coating… just like something Grandma would make but with a festive twist! Perfect for sharing, gifting, or sneaking a few for yourself!
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 ½ cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6–8 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 24 oz chocolate almond bark (for dipping)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, chopped pecans, brown sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, and maple syrup. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Shape into Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour to help them firm up.
- Dip in Chocolate: Melt the chocolate almond bark according to package instructions. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and let them harden at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Firming Up: Make sure to chill the balls before dipping in chocolate, which helps them hold their shape.
- Smooth Chocolate Coating: Tap off excess chocolate after dipping to avoid pooling on the baking sheet.
- Decorate Quickly: Add any toppings, like sea salt or pecans, before the chocolate sets for the best presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 Minutes
- Chill Time: 1 Hour
