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Pecan Pie Balls

Pecan Pie Balls are a festive, bite-sized treat that combines the rich, nutty flavors of classic pecan pie into an easy-to-make, portable dessert perfect for holidays and gatherings. With a creamy, buttery base and toasted pecans, these balls offer a crunchy, sweet, and indulgent snack that can be customized to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter (melted)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned to enhance their flavor and crunch.
  2. Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, melted butter, and brown sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy, then add vanilla extract and mix well.
  3. Fold in Nuts and Chocolate: Gently stir in the toasted pecans and optional mini chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
  4. Form the Balls: Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to roll the mixture into uniform, bite-sized balls. If the mixture is too sticky, chill it for 15 minutes to make shaping easier.
  5. Chill and Finish: Place the balls on a lined tray and refrigerate for at least one hour to set. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate before serving for a festive touch.

Notes

  • Toast nuts carefully to avoid burning and bitterness.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for easier mixing.
  • Chill mixture before rolling if too sticky for clean shaping.
  • Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized balls.
  • Customize toppings with crushed nuts, sea salt, or chocolate drizzle.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pecan Pie Balls, Holiday Treats, Bite-sized Desserts, Gluten Free Snacks, No Bake Desserts