Name: Pecan Pie Balls No Bake Dessert
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups toasted pecans, finely chopped; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup packed brown sugar; 3 tbsp maple syrup; 2 tbsp bourbon or apple juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; Optional: 1 tbsp coconut oil (for smoother chocolate)

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about pecan pie—the warm, buttery crunch of toasted pecans, the rich caramel notes from brown sugar and syrup, and that cozy feeling it brings to gatherings. But let’s be honest, making a whole pie from scratch can be a bit of a project. Enter: Pecan Pie Balls. These little gems capture all the goodness of pecan pie, no oven required, no pie crust fuss, and definitely no stress.

Imagine everything you love about the traditional dessert—nutty, sweet, slightly gooey flavors—all wrapped up in a poppable, bite-sized treat. And the best part? They’re no-bake, meaning you can whip them up in under an hour, including chill time. Perfect for when you want something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven.

These Pecan Pie Balls are especially handy during the holidays when oven space is tight and time is even tighter. They also make a charming addition to dessert platters or cookie swaps. I first stumbled across a version of these during a last-minute Thanksgiving dessert scramble. I needed something quick, crowd-pleasing, and festive. What started as a backup idea quickly became a go-to favorite—these are now requested every year.

They’ve got a little bit of everything: toasted pecans for crunch, graham cracker crumbs for body, brown sugar and maple syrup for that deep, molasses-like flavor, and a splash of vanilla to bring it all together. And if you’re feeling a bit fancy, a touch of bourbon (or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version) adds warmth and complexity.

Trust me—once you try these, they’ll earn a permanent spot in your holiday rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love these no-bake Pecan Pie Balls, and if you’re someone who enjoys easy desserts that still impress, this one’s for you.

First of all, they’re incredibly simple to make. No mixer, no stove, and definitely no baking. Just a few bowls, a spoon, and your fridge are all you need. That means minimal cleanup, which is always a win in my book.

Secondly, they’re bursting with rich, comforting flavor. The pecans add a lovely crunch and depth, the graham crackers offer a slightly sweet, cookie-like base, and the brown sugar and maple syrup mimic that sticky-sweet pie filling we all know and love. When dipped in chocolate, they get an extra layer of indulgence that makes them feel really special.

These treats are also super versatile. You can easily tweak the flavor by switching up the extract—vanilla is classic, but almond or even rum extract (halal-friendly versions) can take it in a whole new direction. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using dark, milk, or even white chocolate for the coating.

They’re also a great make-ahead dessert. You can prep them a day or two in advance and keep them chilled until you’re ready to serve. That makes them ideal for dinner parties, potlucks, or just keeping in the fridge for when your sweet tooth strikes.

Plus, they’re kid-friendly and adult-approved, especially if you skip the bourbon and go for apple juice instead. No one will miss out on the delicious flavor.

Health Benefits

While these aren’t health food by any means, there are still a few nutritional perks to feel good about. Pecans are the real stars here, and they come packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and important vitamins like vitamin E and magnesium. These nuts support heart health and can even help reduce inflammation when enjoyed in moderation.

Additionally, using natural sweeteners like maple syrup provides a slightly better option than processed sugar. Maple syrup contains small amounts of minerals such as zinc and manganese, which support immune function.

And since these are no-bake, you skip the need for additional oils or fats typically used in baked goods. If you want to lighten them up even more, you could experiment with reducing the sugar or using sugar-free chocolate.

So yes, they’re a treat—but they’re a treat with some redeeming qualities, especially when made with wholesome, real-food ingredients.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 40 minutes (includes 30 minutes chill time)
Servings: Makes 18–20 balls
Calories per serving: ~140
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 9g

These nutrition values are approximate and based on using semi-sweet chocolate and apple juice.

Ingredients List

To make these delicious Pecan Pie Balls, here’s what you’ll need:

1 ½ cups toasted pecans, finely chopped
Adds that iconic pecan pie flavor and a satisfying crunch.
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
Provides structure and a slightly sweet, cookie-like base.
½ cup brown sugar, packed
Deep, molasses-rich sweetness that mimics the filling of a pecan pie.
3 tablespoons maple syrup
For a natural touch of sweetness and stickiness to bind the mixture.
2 tablespoons bourbon OR apple juice
Optional for a warm, rich note—use apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Enhances and ties all the flavors together.
Pinch of salt
Balances the sweetness and highlights the nutty flavors.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chocolate of choice)
For dipping—adds richness and a bit of elegance.

Optional: A tablespoon of coconut oil or butter to help melt the chocolate smoothly.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Toast the Pecans
Start by toasting your pecans to enhance their flavor. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Let them cool completely, then chop them finely.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together so it’s evenly distributed.
Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the maple syrup, bourbon or apple juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined. It should come together like a sticky dough.
Shape into Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into small balls—about the size of a walnut. You should get around 18–20 balls.
Chill the Balls
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them into the freezer for 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to dip.
Melt the Chocolate
While the balls chill, melt your chocolate. Place the chocolate chips (and coconut oil if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Dip the Balls
Once chilled, dip each ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool. Tap off the excess and place back on the parchment-lined sheet.
Let Them Set
Transfer the dipped balls to the fridge and let them set for at least 15 minutes. Once the chocolate is firm, they’re ready to serve.

How to Serve

These Pecan Pie Balls are delicious all on their own, but you can take them to the next level by serving them with a few thoughtful additions:

Arrange on a holiday dessert platter with fresh fruit and cookies
Serve in mini paper cups for a polished presentation
Dust with crushed pecans or graham crackers for extra flair
Add a drizzle of white chocolate for a decorative finish

Pairing Suggestions

Since these are rich and sweet, a balanced pairing can elevate the experience:

Hot Drinks: Pair with coffee, chai, or a spiced herbal tea
Cold Drinks: Serve alongside a vanilla almond milk latte or iced tea
Dessert Boards: Include them with dates, dark chocolate, and fresh berries for contrast
Kids’ Pairing: A glass of cold milk or apple cider makes the perfect combo

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. They’ll stay firm and fresh.
Freezing: Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to 3 months.
To Serve: Thaw in the fridge for several hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

No reheating is needed, but if you want a gooey center, let them sit out a few minutes before enjoying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not chilling long enough: If the balls aren’t cold when you dip them, they may fall apart or cause the chocolate to seize.
Over-toasting the pecans: Keep an eye on them—burnt pecans will make the whole batch taste bitter.
Using too much liquid: Stick to the measurements for syrup and juice to avoid a soggy dough.
Skipping the salt: A pinch makes a big difference in balancing the sweetness.
Melting chocolate too fast: Always melt in intervals to prevent burning.

Pro Tips

Chop the pecans very finely for a smoother texture and better binding.
Use a cookie scoop to keep the balls uniform in size.
Freeze before dipping to make chocolate coating easier.
Add coconut flakes or crushed pretzels to the dough for a fun twist.
Store in mini cupcake liners for easy serving and less mess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these nut-free?
You can try substituting sunflower seeds or oats, but the flavor and texture will change significantly.

Is there a sugar-free version?
Yes! Use sugar-free maple syrup and chocolate chips. Adjust brown sugar to a low-carb alternative like coconut sugar or monk fruit.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?
Absolutely. They’re still delicious plain or dusted with powdered sugar.

What kind of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet is classic, but milk chocolate adds sweetness, and dark chocolate adds depth.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these are great for prepping in advance. Make them up to 3 days before serving.

Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes, they freeze beautifully and thaw quickly at room temperature.

How long do they last?
They keep for about a week in the fridge, or up to 3 months in the freezer.

What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Bake them at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

Can I add spices?
Definitely. Try cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a warm, festive flavor.

Can I use something other than graham crackers?
Crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers work well too.

Conclusion & Call to Action

These No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls are everything you want in a dessert: easy, flavorful, festive, and totally irresistible. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays, looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee, or whipping up something last-minute for guests, these deliver on every front.

Once you try them, don’t be surprised if they become a new favorite in your rotation. I’d love to hear how yours turn out—feel free to leave a comment or tag me with your creations online. Happy no-baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!