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Grandma’s Pecan Pie Balls (No Bake)

  • Author: Chef Sophia
  • Total Time: 45–75 minutes
  • Yield: 24–30 balls 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

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

Scale
  • 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)

Notes

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized portions. This helps with presentation and ensures consistent sweetness in every bite.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, No-Bake Treats
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American, Holiday

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ball
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 30mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: pecan pie balls, no-bake holiday treats, maple pecan bites, bite-sized desserts, easy Christmas desserts, nutty sweets

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Find it online: https://chefsophia.com/grandmas-pecan-pie-balls-no-bake/