No Bake Pecan Pie Balls

No Bake Pecan Pie Balls deliver all the sweet and nutty satisfaction of classic pecan pie but without the fuss of rolling dough or firing up the oven. These creamy chocolate-studded treats are perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of mixing and rolling you will have a dessert that everyone will grab for first on the sweet table.

After I first made these for a holiday movie night they disappeared before the opening credits. Now I always have to double the batch since my friends ask for the recipe every time.

Ingredients

• Finely chopped pecans: add rich nutty flavor and a bit of crunch choose fresh pecans for the best taste
• Cream cheese softened: binds the mixture and gives a luscious creamy texture always use full-fat for best results
• Powdered sugar: sweetens everything and blends in smoothly sift if lumpy for a finer filling
• Vanilla extract: deepens the flavor pure extract is best for warm aromatic notes
• Mini chocolate chips: bring pockets of rich chocolate use mini size so every bite has some chocolate
• Graham cracker crumbs: provide an extra layer of texture and a toasty finish roll the pecan balls for a non-sticky easy-to-eat exterior

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the pecans:

Use a sharp knife or food processor to finely chop pecans stop when they are about the size of a grain of rice so they blend evenly and give good crunch

Mix the creamy base:

Place softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl mix with a hand mixer or sturdy wooden spoon until no lumps remain and the mixture looks fluffy this makes for the smoothest texture

Add flavor and chocolate:

Pour in vanilla extract and stir well then gently fold in the mini chocolate chips so you do not smash them or make the mixture gray with streaks

Shape the balls:

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them gently between your palms to create uniform balls about one inch across if it is sticky chill for ten minutes first

Coat with graham crumbs:

Spread graham cracker crumbs on a plate roll each ball until fully covered pressing lightly so the crumbs stick and provide a nice finish

Chill before serving:

Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet place in the fridge for at least thirty minutes so they firm up and keep their shape for serving

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My favorite part is pushing the mini chocolate chips into the creamy dough with my little one right beside me sneaking tastes and giggling it is become our holiday kitchen tradition

Storage Tips

Keep pecan pie balls in a resealable container in the fridge for up to four days To keep them fresh layer with parchment paper if stacking They also freeze beautifully just thaw in the fridge before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap walnuts or almonds for pecans if that is what you have instead Swap out chocolate chips for chopped dried fruit for a fruity twist Dairy free cream cheese also works if you need it

Serving Suggestions

Pile them up on a pretty platter for a quick party dessert Stack them in a jar with a ribbon for gifting Or serve on a dessert board with other sweets and fresh fruit

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the pecan balls from sticking when rolling?

Chilling the mixture briefly or lightly coating your hands with powdered sugar helps prevent sticking while shaping the balls.

→ Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?

Mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can be used, but texture and flavor may slightly change.

→ Should pecans be toasted before mixing?

Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds depth, but it’s optional if you prefer a milder, softer note.

→ How long can I store these bites?

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week for best freshness and flavor.

→ Can I freeze these sweet treats?

Yes, arrange in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.