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Pecan Pie Balls that need zero baking pack in all that sweet chewy goodness—no need to mess around with crust or your oven. These dreamy bites are full of chocolate and nuts and hit the spot for any get-together or just hanging out on the couch. Just toss a few things in a bowl, roll 'em up, and they’ll be the first thing gone from your treat tray.
The first time I whipped up a batch for a Christmas flick, folks ate them up before the movie even started. Now my gang won’t let me come over unless I make a double batch—they always want them!
Delicious Ingredients
- Mini chocolate chips: pop these in so every bite surprises you with some chocolate; tiny size works best for even mixing
- Chopped pecans: toast them if you want, pick the freshest ones you can; they make the flavor deep and nutty
- Softened cream cheese: makes everything come together creamy and smooth; grab full fat if possible
- Vanilla extract: gives your treats a warm rich lift; real stuff is worth it
- Powdered sugar: melts right in to add sweetness; use a sifter if it’s clumpy
- Graham cracker crumbs: roll the balls in these for a tasty outer layer that won’t stick to your hands
Simple How-To Steps
- Cool them down:
- Lay the balls out on a sheet with parchment, slide them in the fridge for half an hour so they set and keep their shape
- Roll in graham:
- Dump some graham crumbs on a plate, coat each ball all over with crumbs and give them a little pat so it sticks well
- Shape 'em:
- Grab a spoonful, roll it with your hands to make little balls; chill the mix for ten minutes if it's too soft
- Stir in flavor and choco chips:
- Mix in vanilla and scatter in chocolate chips, fold gently so they don’t get smushed
- Mix it up:
- Beat soft cream cheese with powdered sugar till everything’s fluffy and smooth
- Prep those nuts:
- Toss pecans in a food processor or chop with a knife so they’re about rice-sized for a nice crunch throughout
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I just love squishing those tiny chocolate chips into the dough with my kid next to me grabbing sneaky bites. It’s one of those fun things we do together every year for the holidays!
Storing Made Easy
Tuck these balls in a sealed container in your fridge and they’ll last four days. Pop parchment between layers if you stack them up so they don’t stick. Freeze too, just let them thaw in the fridge before serving and you’re good to go.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
No pecans? Try walnuts or almonds instead. You can swap chocolate chips for dried fruit like cranberries if that’s your jam. Dairy-free cream cheese fits right in too if you need that option.
Fun Ways to Serve
Stack them high on a cute tray for easy party snacks. Fill a glass jar, tie on a ribbon, and hand them out as gifts. Or just toss on a board with fruit and other treats for dessert time.
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Common Questions
- → How can I stop the mixture from sticking when forming the balls?
Pop the mix in the fridge for a bit, or dust your hands with powdered sugar so the mixture doesn't cling as you roll.
- → Is it okay to use something instead of cream cheese?
You can swap in mascarpone or a plant-based cream cheese. Just know the taste and feel might change a touch.
- → Do the pecans need to be toasted before I start?
Toasting makes the pecans taste nuttier and adds a fuller vibe, but feel free to skip it if you like them more mild and tender.
- → How long will these keep fresh?
Stick 'em in a sealed container in the fridge. They'll taste awesome for up to seven days.
- → Can I stash these in the freezer?
Definitely. Lay them out flat to freeze, then move to a freezer bag. Let them thaw in the fridge when you're ready to snack.