Grandma’s Pecan Pie Balls (No Bake)

These Grandma’s Pecan Pie Balls bring all the warm, buttery goodness of a classic pecan pie without ever turning on the oven! Each bite is sweet, nutty, and perfectly chewy, coated in a dusting of powdered sugar that melts in your mouth. They’re simple, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible just like Grandma used to make. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or a little everyday treat!

Ingredients

• 2 cups finely chopped pecans
• 1 cup crushed graham crackers (about 7–8 full sheets)
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup maple syrup (or light corn syrup for a traditional flavor)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dry ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine chopped pecans, crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, and salt. Mix well to distribute evenly.
2. Add the wet ingredients:
   Pour in the maple syrup and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.
3. Chill the mixture:
   Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, until firm enough to roll easily.
4. Form the balls:
   Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll into balls. You’ll get roughly 24–30 bite-sized treats.
5. Roll in powdered sugar:
   Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl, then roll each ball until evenly coated.
6. Serve or store:
   Enjoy right away or store in an airtight container.
   • Keeps for up to 1 week in the fridge
   • Or freeze for longer (thaw before serving)

Variation

• Chocolate-Dipped Pecan Pie Balls:
  For a decadent twist, dip each chilled ball halfway (or fully!) in melted dark or milk chocolate. Let them set on parchment paper until firm. This not only adds a beautiful glossy finish but also balances the sweetness with a touch of rich cocoa flavor.
• Coconut Pecan Pie Balls:
  Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the mixture before chilling. The coconut brings a chewy texture and tropical hint that pairs wonderfully with the maple and pecan flavors.
• Bourbon Pecan Pie Balls:
  Stir in 1 tablespoon of good-quality bourbon with the syrup and vanilla. It deepens the flavor and gives a subtle warmth reminiscent of old-fashioned Southern pecan pie. (Optional: roll in finely chopped pecans instead of powdered sugar for a rustic look.)

Cooking Notes

• Texture Check: The mixture should feel sticky enough to hold its shape when rolled but not wet or runny. If it’s too soft, add a bit more graham cracker crumbs; if too dry, drizzle in a touch more syrup.
• Chilling Matters: Don’t skip the refrigeration step chilling firms up the sugar and syrup, making it easier to shape neat, smooth balls without sticking to your hands.
• Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized portions. This helps with presentation and ensures consistent sweetness in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Dessert Tray: Arrange the pecan pie balls alongside other no-bake sweets like truffles, fudge, or cookies. The powdered sugar coating gives them a festive, snow-dusted look perfect for celebrations.
• Gift Giving: Pack them in mini paper cups or decorative tins lined with parchment. Add a little ribbon or tag for a charming homemade gift that keeps well for days.
• Party Favor or Snack: Serve chilled from the fridge for the best texture. They make a lovely bite-sized treat for coffee breaks, potlucks, or after-dinner sweets without the fuss of baking.

Tips

• Toast the Pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans in a dry skillet or oven brings out their buttery richness and makes the flavor more pronounced just be sure to let them cool before mixing.
• Sweetness Control: If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the brown sugar slightly or use pure maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a softer, more balanced sweetness.
• Storage Savvy: Store in an airtight container, with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for about a week in the fridge or up to two months in the freezer perfect for make-ahead holiday prep.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (including chill time)

Nutritional Information (Per Ball)

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 55mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These pecan pie balls are perfect for prepping in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to two months. Simply thaw before serving.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup or corn syrup?
You can but keep in mind honey is sweeter and thicker, so start with slightly less (about ⅓ cup) and adjust for consistency. It will add a subtle floral note to the flavor.

How can I make these vegan-friendly?
Use maple syrup instead of corn syrup, and double-check that your graham crackers are honey-free. Everything else is naturally vegan, making this an easy plant-based dessert option.

Why are my balls too sticky to roll?
That usually means there’s too much moisture. Add a few spoonfuls of crushed graham crackers, then refrigerate again until the texture firms up.

Conclusion

These Grandma’s Pecan Pie Balls deliver the comforting taste of classic pecan pie in a simple, no-bake form. Sweet, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth soft, they’re perfect for gifting, gatherings, or just a cozy homemade indulgence. Whether rolled in powdered sugar, dipped in chocolate, or enjoyed plain, they capture that nostalgic homemade flavor just like Grandma’s kitchen, no oven required.

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