Here’s a No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls recipe — a perfect bite-sized treat that tastes just like classic pecan pie, without the hassle of baking. They’re sweet, nutty, and can be dipped in chocolate for a decadent finish.
🥜 No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls
📏 Yield: About 20–24 balls
⏲ Total Time: 20 minutes (+ chilling time)
⭐ Ingredients
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1 ½ cups pecans, finely chopped or ground
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1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla wafer crumbs)
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¾ cup brown sugar, packed
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¼ cup maple syrup or corn syrup
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¼ tsp salt
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Optional: ½ tsp cinnamon
For Coating (Optional but Recommended):
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1 cup chocolate chips or melting chocolate
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1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening (for smoother melting)
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Extra chopped pecans or sea salt for garnish
🔪 Instructions
1. Mix the Base:
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In a large bowl, combine:
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Finely chopped pecans
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Graham cracker crumbs
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Brown sugar
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Salt and cinnamon (if using)
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2. Add Wet Ingredients:
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Add in:
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Maple (or corn) syrup
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Melted butter
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Vanilla extract
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Mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should be sticky and hold together when pressed.
3. Form Balls:
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Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls.
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Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
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Chill in the refrigerator or freezer for 30–60 minutes until firm.
4. (Optional) Dip in Chocolate:
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Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
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Dip each ball halfway or fully into the chocolate. Place back on parchment.
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Sprinkle with chopped pecans or a pinch of flaky sea salt while chocolate is still wet.
5. Chill Again:
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Let chocolate set in the fridge for about 15–20 minutes.
🧊 Storage
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
💡 Tips & Variations
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Bourbon Pecan Pie Balls: Add 1–2 tsp of bourbon for a grown-up twist.
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Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate.
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No chocolate coating: They’re still delicious plain or rolled in powdered sugar or cocoa powder.