Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls Recipe
These Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls are a delightful no-bake holiday treat that combines the rich flavors of pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon with a smooth chocolate coating. Perfectly bite-sized and easy to prepare, they make an ideal festive snack or gift during the holiday season.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (melting chocolate and dipping)
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 24 balls 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans 🥜
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt 🧂
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup or maple syrup 🍁
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating
- 12 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips 🍫
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
Decoration
- Festive sprinkles or coarse sea salt (optional, for decorating) ✨
Instructions
- Prepare the Pecan Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in melted butter, light corn syrup (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Shape the Balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture at a time and roll into small balls using your palms. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours until firm.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth. Alternatively, melt chocolate in a double boiler on the stove for gentle heating.
- Dip the Pecan Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled pecan ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Allow excess chocolate to drip off and place back on the parchment-lined sheet.
- Decorate (Optional): While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with festive sprinkles or a pinch of coarse sea salt for a beautiful holiday finish.
- Set the Chocolate: Allow chocolate-coated balls to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Serve & Store: Once hardened, store pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Notes
- You can substitute maple syrup for light corn syrup to make the recipe more natural and vegan.
- Using coconut oil helps the chocolate coat smoothly and sets with a nice shine.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, toast the pecans lightly before chopping.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent melting.
- Decorate creatively with different sprinkles to match your holiday theme.
Keywords: Christmas treats, pecan pie balls, no-bake desserts, holiday snacks, chocolate-coated pecan balls
