🥜 Pecan Pie Balls (No-Bake) Recipe

Perfect for: Holiday treats, quick desserts, snack time, or gifting
Yields: 12–14 balls
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Calories per ball: ~150–180 kcal (depending on size and ingredients)

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🧺 Ingredients

For the Pecan Pie Balls:

• 1 ½ cups pecans, finely chopped (or crushed in a food processor)

• 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 8–10 dates)

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey, if preferred)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ⅛ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats

• 2 tablespoons almond butter (or peanut butter, if preferred)

• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for added sweetness)

For the Coating (Optional):

• ¼ cup chopped pecans (for rolling the balls)

• ¼ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened, optional)

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

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🧁 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

1. If the dates are not soft, soak them in warm water for about 10–15 minutes to soften them up.

2. Once softened, drain and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Process the Ingredients

1. In a food processor, combine the soaked dates, finely chopped pecans, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

2. Process until the mixture forms a sticky dough-like consistency. You may need to scrape the sides down a few times to make sure everything is well combined.

3. Add the rolled oats and almond butter to the mixture and pulse again until fully incorporated. The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together when pressed.

Step 3: Shape the Pecan Pie Balls

1. Take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. If the mixture is too sticky, you can slightly dampen your hands or dust them with a little bit of powdered sugar.

2. Continue rolling the rest of the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Step 4: Chill the Balls

1. Once all the balls are formed, place the tray in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.

Step 5: Coat the Pecan Pie Balls (Optional)

1. While the balls are chilling, prepare the coating options.

   • Chopped pecans: Roughly chop the pecans and set aside.

   • Shredded coconut: If using, place the shredded coconut in a shallow bowl.

   • Powdered sugar: If you want a sweet, powdery coating, sift powdered sugar into a small bowl.

2. After chilling, roll the pecan pie balls in your desired coating:

   • Roll in chopped pecans for extra crunch.

   • Roll in shredded coconut for a tropical touch.

   • Lightly coat with powdered sugar for sweetness.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Serve the pecan pie balls as a sweet snack or dessert.

2. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze them for up to 2 months.

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💡 Tips & Tricks

• Consistency is Key: The consistency of the dough should be sticky enough to form into balls but not too wet. If the mixture is too dry, add a little extra maple syrup or almond butter to help bind it together.

• Mix-In Ideas: You can also add a handful of mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries to the dough for added sweetness and texture.

• For Extra Flavor: Try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the balls after rolling them in the coating for a sweet-salty contrast.

• Sweeteners: You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup, depending on your preference. Keep in mind that honey will give it a slightly different flavor.

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🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead

• Refrigerator: These pecan pie balls keep well in the fridge for up to 1 week. Store them in an airtight container.

• Freezer: You can freeze them for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Let them thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

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🥰 Who Will Love These?

• Pecan lovers who enjoy the nutty, buttery flavor of pecans in bite-sized treats.

• Health-conscious snackers looking for a naturally sweet, no-bake dessert that satisfies a sweet tooth without being overly indulgent.

• Anyone who loves pecan pie but wants a more portable, easier-to-make version.

• Vegans and gluten-free eaters — these balls are naturally both!