Pecan Pie Truffles

Introduction

When it comes to holiday treats, nothing captures the spirit of indulgence quite like Pecan Pie Truffles. These delightful little bites combine the rich flavors of pecan pie with the irresistible charm of chocolate truffles. My family simply can’t resist them! The creamy filling, with its nutty undertones, pairs beautifully with the smooth chocolate coating, making every bite a luxurious experience. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or just want to satisfy a sweet tooth, these truffles are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for thinning chocolate)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, crushed graham crackers, and powdered sugar.
2. Add the corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.

Form the Truffles

1. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Refrigerate the truffles for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Prepare the Coating

1. In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate chips (and coconut oil, if using) over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.

Dip the Truffles

1. Using a fork or a toothpick, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Allow excess chocolate to drip off.
2. Place the coated truffles back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the truffles until the chocolate coating is set, about 30 minutes.
2. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 truffles
• Calories: 120 kcal per truffle
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Presentation: Arrange the truffles in a decorative box or on a platter for a beautiful presentation.
• Pairing: Serve with coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine for an elegant touch.
• Occasions:
• Holiday parties
• Birthdays
• Special celebrations
• As gifts for friends and family

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to form into balls, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
2. Chocolate Dipping: For a smoother chocolate coating, add a little coconut oil or vegetable oil to the chocolate when melting.
3. Nut Alternatives: If you’re allergic to pecans, try using walnuts or almonds instead.
4. Flavors: Experiment with different extracts, like maple or bourbon, to add a unique twist to the filling.
5. Decorate: For added flair, drizzle extra melted chocolate over the truffles or sprinkle with additional chopped nuts.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Coating: Use white chocolate or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
• Flavored Cream Cheese: Try using flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or blueberry, for a fruity twist.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions

• Gift Baskets: Place truffles in small gift boxes or cellophane bags for thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Dessert Table: Add these truffles to your dessert table alongside other sweets for a variety of flavors.
• Seasonal Touch: Dust with edible glitter or festive sprinkles for holidays.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Pecan Pie Truffles freeze beautifully. Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: To enjoy frozen truffles, simply transfer them to the refrigerator a few hours before serving.
• Refrigeration: Keep the truffles stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

• Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes.

1. How do I know when the chocolate is melted?

• Stir the chocolate frequently; it’s ready when smooth and shiny.

1. What can I use instead of corn syrup?

• You can use honey or maple syrup as alternatives.

1. Can I make these truffles gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or substitute with crushed gluten-free cookies.

1. How can I make the truffles more festive?

• Decorate with holiday-themed sprinkles or drizzle with colored chocolate.

1. How long do the truffles last?

• They last about a week in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

1. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to form the truffles.

1. Is there a way to make these truffles less sweet?

• You can reduce the powdered sugar in the filling to balance the sweetness.

1. What should I do if the chocolate is too thick?

• Add a little more coconut oil or vegetable oil to thin it out.

1. Can I add other flavorings to the truffles?
   • Absolutely! Experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut for a unique flavor.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Truffles are an easy and delightful treat that combines the beloved flavors of pecan pie with the rich decadence of chocolate. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or keeping for yourself, these truffles are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Their smooth texture, nutty flavor, and sweet chocolate coating make them a must-try dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply indulging on a cozy evening, these truffles are the perfect bite-sized treat!

Print