Pecan Cookie Balls Recipe

Craving a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s easy to make and even easier to eat? Say hello to Pecan Cookie Balls! These little bites of heaven combine the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with the perfect balance of sweetness, making them absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a holiday dessert, or something fun to bring to a potluck, these cookie balls are a hit every time. Trust me, once you pop one of these into your mouth, you’ll be hooked!

They’re everything you love about cookies—soft, nutty, and just the right amount of sweetness—but in the form of bite-sized, no-bake delights. The best part? You can make them in just a few simple steps, and they’re perfect for customizing with a little extra twist if you want to get creative. Ready to make some magic in the kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Pecan Cookie Balls

Easy to Make: These cookie balls come together so quickly—no complicated steps here! If you’re short on time, this is the recipe for you.

Rich & Nutty: The pecans bring in that perfect nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies and powdered sugar.

No-Bake: If you’re not a fan of turning on the oven, you’ll love how simple and no-fuss these are. Just mix, roll, and chill!

Customizable: You can play around with the recipe by adding different spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a drizzle of chocolate for extra indulgence.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday treat, a gift for a friend, or just a snack to enjoy at home, these cookie balls are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these dreamy little treats:

For the Pecan Cookie Balls:

• Pecans: The star of the show, giving these cookie balls that rich, nutty flavor. You’ll want to toast them slightly for extra depth!
• Butter: Adds richness and that classic cookie flavor. Softened butter works best for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar: This makes the dough soft, sweet, and easy to shape.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a touch to round out the flavors and give the cookie balls a little something extra.
• Flour: This binds everything together and helps give the cookie balls structure.
• Salt: A pinch to balance out the sweetness.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get baking? These little bites come together so fast, and the hardest part is waiting for them to chill!

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Start by toasting your pecans lightly in a dry pan over medium heat. Stir them around for 5-7 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. This brings out the natural oils and enhances the nutty flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix them together until it forms a smooth and creamy base. Then add in the toasted pecans, flour, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it forms a soft dough. If it’s a little too crumbly, add a teaspoon of water or milk to help bring it together.

Step 3: Roll the Balls

Once your dough is ready, roll it into small, bite-sized balls—about 1-inch in diameter. You should get around 12-15 cookie balls depending on the size. If you want, you can roll the dough balls in some extra chopped pecans or powdered sugar to coat them for a little extra flair.

Step 4: Chill & Enjoy!

Place your pecan cookie balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once chilled, they’re ready to enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 1 cookie ball
Calories per serving: Approximately 120 calories
Fat: 9g
Carbs: 12g
Protein: 1g

(Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Pecan Cookie Balls

Pecan cookie balls are sweet enough to stand alone, but here are a few ways to serve them:

• For a Sweet Snack: Perfect for an afternoon treat or to share at a coffee or tea break.
• Gift-Worthy: Pack them in a cute tin or jar for a homemade gift that’ll impress anyone who loves treats.
• Holiday Parties: These are a great addition to your dessert spread during the holidays. They’re easy to make in large batches and look adorable on any table.
• With a Cold Glass of Milk: Sometimes, all you need is a classic—dunking these cookie balls in milk makes them even more delicious!

Additional Tips

• Toast the Pecans: Toasting your pecans is an extra step, but it really makes a difference in the flavor. It enhances their nuttiness and gives the cookie balls that extra depth of flavor.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon, a dash of chocolate chips, or even some coconut flakes to the dough for a fun twist.
• Make Ahead: You can make these ahead of time! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to a month.
• No Pecans? No Problem: If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds work great as alternatives.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A1: Yes, you can! Just make sure to reduce or eliminate the added salt in the recipe to prevent it from getting too salty.

Q2: Can I use a food processor to chop the pecans?
A1: Absolutely! If you prefer smaller pieces of pecans or want a finer texture, you can pulse them in a food processor until they’re just the right size.

Q3: Can I freeze the pecan cookie balls?
A3: Yes, they freeze wonderfully! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them first, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Thaw them in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Q4: Can I make these without flour?
A4: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you could try almond flour or coconut flour, but the texture may be slightly different.

Q5: How can I make these sweeter?
A5: You can always add a bit more powdered sugar or drizzle the cookie balls with some melted chocolate for a sweeter treat.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store these cookie balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Q7: Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
A7: Yes! You can stir in chocolate chips, or even dip the balls in chocolate for an extra decadent touch.

Q8: Can I make these without a mixer?
A8: Yes, absolutely! You can mix everything by hand using a spoon or your hands—just be sure to soften the butter to make it easier to blend.

Q9: Can I substitute the pecans for another nut?
A9: You can use walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts as a great substitute. It will give the cookie balls a slightly different flavor but still delicious!

Q10: Can I make these smaller?
A10: Absolutely! You can roll them smaller for bite-sized snacks, just keep an eye on the chilling time, as smaller balls will firm up faster.

Conclusion

These Pecan Cookie Balls are simple, flavorful, and so versatile. With their nutty, buttery richness, they’re the perfect sweet treat for any occasion, and they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re snacking, gifting, or serving at a party, these little balls of joy will disappear faster than you can make them. So, grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy these delightful, no-bake bites today!

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