I have always been a fan of decadent desserts, but there’s something about bite-sized treats that truly steal my heart. That’s why when I first discovered the Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie Balls, I knew I had found a gem. These little spheres of sweet, nutty goodness are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering, a festive holiday spread, or just an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee. From the moment you take your first bite, you are greeted with a delightful crunch from the pecans, followed by a soft, gooey center that melts in your mouth.
You will love this recipe because it combines the rich, buttery flavor of classic pecan pie with the convenience of a no-fuss, bite-sized dessert. Unlike traditional pies that require careful slicing and serving, these balls are simple to share and even easier to enjoy. Their irresistible sweetness, balanced with a hint of saltiness, ensures that everyone—from kids to adults—will go back for seconds.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve these pecan pie balls at brunch, pack them for lunchbox treats, or include them as part of a dessert platter for parties. They also pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a simple glass of milk, making them suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
This recipe is surprisingly affordable, too. With pantry staples like brown sugar, butter, flour, and pecans, you don’t need extravagant ingredients to create a luxurious dessert. Each ingredient works in harmony to produce a rich, flavorful bite that feels indulgent but is easy on the wallet.
Ingredients:
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1 cup chopped pecans
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1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/2 cup butter, softened
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1 cup brown sugar, packed
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1/4 cup corn syrup
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 package (12 oz) chocolate chips or candy coating
How to Prepare Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie Balls
Making these pecan pie balls is easier than you might think, and the process is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of irresistible bite-sized treats ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the filling: Start by combining the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat until smooth and creamy. This forms the base of your pecan pie balls and ensures a soft, luscious texture.
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Form the base balls: Mix in the graham cracker crumbs gradually until the mixture holds together. Take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is crucial as it helps the balls hold their shape when coated.
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Prepare the pecan topping: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes glossy. Stir in the chopped pecans and allow the mixture to cool for 5–10 minutes.
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Coat the balls: Remove the chilled cream cheese balls from the refrigerator. Using a spoon, carefully coat each ball with the pecan mixture, ensuring that each one is evenly covered. You can use a small spatula or your hands lightly greased with butter to help shape them if needed.
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Add the chocolate coating: Melt the chocolate chips or candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring between each interval until smooth. Dip each pecan-covered ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork to lift it out and letting the excess drip off. Place the chocolate-coated balls back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
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Chill and set: Refrigerate the pecan pie balls for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is fully set. This ensures they are firm and easy to handle when serving.
Quick and Easy Tips
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Using pre-chopped pecans saves time, but lightly toasting them enhances their flavor.
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If the chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to achieve a smoother coating.
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Keep the balls chilled until ready to serve to maintain their shape and texture.
Customization Options
These pecan pie balls are highly adaptable. You can drizzle caramel over the chocolate for extra sweetness, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for contrast, or even use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a different flavor profile. Adding finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries can also add a festive twist.
Popular with Many People
The combination of creamy filling, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate makes these balls universally loved. They are perfect for gatherings, parties, or gifting because they are visually appealing, easy to eat, and irresistibly tasty. Guests often compliment the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them a repeat favorite.
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Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie Balls – No Bake, Nutty & Sweet Fall Dessert Recipe
These Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie Balls are bite-sized desserts that combine a creamy filling with crunchy pecans and a smooth chocolate coating. Perfect for parties, holidays, or an indulgent treat at home, they are easy to make, versatile, and universally loved.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 package (12 oz) chocolate chips or candy coating
Instructions
- Make the cream cheese base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate graham cracker crumbs: Gradually mix in the crumbs until the mixture holds together.
- Form balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare pecan topping: In a medium saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened and glossy. Stir in chopped pecans and cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Coat the balls: Remove chilled balls from the fridge. Using a spoon or lightly greased hands, coat each ball evenly with the pecan mixture.
- Melt chocolate: Heat chocolate chips or candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Dip balls in chocolate: Using a fork, dip each pecan-coated ball into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Return to parchment-lined sheet.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until chocolate is firm. Serve chilled.
Notes
Toasting pecans lightly enhances flavor.
Keep balls chilled until serving to maintain shape.
Optional: drizzle with caramel or sprinkle sea salt on top for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 10
FAQs – Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie Balls
Q: Can I make these pecan pie balls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare them a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and firmness.
Q: Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
A: Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts work well. Toast them lightly to enhance their flavor before adding to the mixture.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Yes. Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed gluten-free cookies. The texture will remain deliciously similar.
Q: How long do these pecan pie balls last?
A: Stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months, thawing in the fridge before serving.
Q: Can I skip the chocolate coating?
A: You can. The chocolate adds richness and helps hold the pecan topping in place, but the balls are still tasty without it. You could also dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel as an alternative.