If you love the rich, nutty flavor of classic pecan pie but don’t want to turn on the oven, these Pecan Pie Balls (No-Bake) are your new favorite treat. They capture all the delicious flavors of the traditional pie — caramelized pecans, sweet brown sugar, and buttery warmth — in a bite-sized, portable form.
Perfect for the holidays, gift boxes, or anytime sweet cravings hit, these truffles are irresistibly rich yet incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to bake, roll out crusts, or even turn on the stove for long. Just mix, chill, dip, and enjoy.
Each bite offers a delightful blend of chewy pecans, brown sugar sweetness, and creamy chocolate coating — a combination that melts in your mouth and satisfies every dessert craving.
Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Balls
You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple, quick, and bursting with pecan pie flavor. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a full batch ready to chill or share.
Additionally, these pecan pie truffles are no-fuss and crowd-pleasing. There’s no crust to roll or pie to slice — just perfectly portioned bites that travel and store beautifully. They’re ideal for gifting during the holidays or serving on dessert platters.
Moreover, the ingredients are pantry staples, and the recipe is completely no-bake, making it perfect for warm-weather months or busy baking seasons.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If traditional pies feel intimidating or time-consuming, these No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls deliver the same cozy flavor with none of the effort. The combination of toasted pecans, brown sugar, graham crumbs, and vanilla creates that familiar pecan pie richness — no oven required.
Furthermore, the chocolate coating elevates them into truffle-like bites that look elegant enough for parties yet simple enough for everyday snacking. They also make wonderful edible gifts — just wrap them in festive boxes or jars for an easy homemade surprise.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling
- 1 ½ cups finely chopped pecans (toasted for best flavor)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup maple syrup or light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
For the Coating
- 12 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or shortening, for shine)
Optional Garnishes
- Crushed pecans or graham crumbs for topping
- Sea salt flakes for contrast
How to Make Pecan Pie Balls (No-Bake) (Step-by-Step)
1. Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)
If you prefer a deeper nutty flavor, spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes. Let them cool before mixing.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, chopped pecans, salt, and vanilla extract. Add the maple syrup and stir until everything is well combined and sticky enough to hold together. If the mixture feels too dry, add another teaspoon of syrup.
3. Roll into Balls
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until firm.
4. Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy.
5. Dip and Coat
Using a fork or dipping tool, roll each pecan ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently tap off excess chocolate and place the truffle back on the parchment-lined tray.
6. Add Garnish
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle each ball with crushed pecans, graham crumbs, or sea salt for decoration.
7. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the coated balls for 20–30 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the perfect pecan pie-inspired bite.
10 Tips for the Best No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls
- Toast the pecans for deeper, buttery flavor.
- Use real maple syrup for a more complex sweetness.
- Adjust texture — add more syrup if dry or more crumbs if too sticky.
- Chill before dipping to prevent them from crumbling in the chocolate.
- Use a fork for dipping to ensure smooth, even coating.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth and spice.
- Work in small batches so the chocolate doesn’t harden too fast.
- Line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Chill thoroughly before serving for the best bite.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.
10 Variations & Substitutions
- Dark Chocolate Version: Use 70% cocoa chocolate for richer flavor.
- White Chocolate Coating: Swap for a sweeter, creamy contrast.
- Rum Pecan Balls: Add 1 teaspoon of rum extract or bourbon.
- Coconut Pecan Balls: Stir in ¼ cup shredded coconut.
- Salted Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel over the chilled truffles.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate.
- Gluten-Free: Replace graham crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs.
- Nut Mix: Combine pecans with walnuts for variety.
- Cinnamon Spice: Add a touch of nutmeg or allspice for warmth.
- Holiday Edition: Top with gold sprinkles or crushed candy canes.
What to Serve With Pecan Pie Balls (Step-by-Step)
- Pair with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy dessert.
- Serve on a dessert tray with truffles, fudge, or cookies.
- Gift in jars or treat boxes for holidays and parties.
- Add to ice cream sundaes for a decadent topping.
- Serve alongside cheesecake or brownies for a dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating Tips (Step-by-Step)
To Store
Keep the pecan pie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
To Freeze
Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
To Serve
Serve chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for softer, gooier bites.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make these without a food processor?
Yes, just chop the pecans finely by hand and mix well.
2. Can I skip the chocolate coating?
Absolutely — they’re delicious rolled in powdered sugar or cocoa instead.
3. Can I use honey instead of syrup?
Yes, though it will add a slightly different sweetness and stickier texture.
4. Can I make them vegan?
Easily! Use maple syrup, vegan butter, and dairy-free chocolate.
5. How do I keep the chocolate shiny?
Add coconut oil or shortening while melting the chocolate.
6. Can I add alcohol for flavor?
Yes — bourbon or rum adds a lovely Southern twist.
7. How long do they last?
Up to 2 weeks refrigerated or 2 months frozen.
8. Can I make them less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar slightly or use dark chocolate coating.
9. Can kids help make them?
Definitely! It’s a fun, mess-free recipe perfect for family baking.
10. Can I use other nuts?
Yes — walnuts, almonds, or cashews all work beautifully.