Pecan Pie Balls

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Imagine combining the irresistible flavors of a classic pecan pie into a bite-sized delight. These Pecan Pie Balls are the perfect treat for any occasion, bringing you the rich, nutty taste you love in a convenient little package. They’re a hit at parties and a favorite among those who enjoy portion-controlled desserts. Plus, with an option for an alcohol-free version, everyone can indulge!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Pecan Pie Balls are incredibly easy to make and offer the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. They’re a crowd-pleaser, especially during the holiday season, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you opt for the boozy version or not, they’re sure to impress.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper
• Double boiler or microwave

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups pecans, toasted and chopped
• 1 cup graham crackers, crushed (or substitute with vanilla wafers or Oreos)
• 1 cup brown sugar, well packed
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt (optional)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/4 cup bourbon, brandy, or spiced rum (or use almond or rum extract for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 7 oz dark chocolate bark (or white chocolate, if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the pecans, crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, and salt.
2. Add the maple syrup, your choice of alcohol or extract, and vanilla extract to the mixture.
3. Ensure all ingredients are well combined, using your hands if necessary. Add water to equalize the liquid if using extracts.
4. Shape the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls.
5. Place the balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and freeze for 2 hours.
6. For smoother balls, roll them again with slightly moistened hands before dipping in chocolate.
7. Melt the chocolate bark using a double boiler or microwave.
8. Dip the frozen balls into the melted chocolate and return them to the parchment-lined cookie sheet.
9. Optional: Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top before the chocolate hardens.
10. Freeze the balls again. Before serving, let them rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Tips for Success

For best results, allow the mixture to sit for about 30 minutes before shaping the balls. This helps the crumbs absorb the liquids better. Use oven mitts to prevent sticking when rolling the balls.

Additional Tips and Variations

If you want to experiment, try coating half the balls with almond bark or adding a hint of mint extract for a refreshing twist. You can also sprinkle cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving (1 ball) contains approximately:

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! These balls freeze well and can be prepared in advance. Just make sure to let them thaw for about 15 minutes before serving.

What if I don’t like pecans? You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Is there a way to make them gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

These Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that you’re sure to love. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give them a try and let us know how they turned out for you. Happy baking!

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