Pecan Balls

These Pecan Balls are a buttery, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich pecan flavor and a hint of sweetness, these bite-sized delights are easy to make and utterly irresistible. Optional chocolate drizzle adds an extra layer of indulgence, making them a favorite for holiday platters or everyday snacking.

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 heaping cup chopped pecans (finely chopped)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Chocolate Drizzle:

• ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil or shortening (to thin the chocolate for drizzling)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the flour, chopped pecans, and salt to the butter mixture. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until a crumbly dough forms. The dough should hold together when pressed.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

1. Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time and roll it into smooth, round balls using your hands.
2. Place the shaped balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1–2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops may not brown significantly, but they will firm up as they cool.
2. Remove from the oven and let the pecan balls cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Optional Chocolate Drizzle

1. If adding a chocolate drizzle, melt the semisweet chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
2. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled pecan balls using a spoon or piping bag. Allow the chocolate to set by placing the balls in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Store

1. Once the chocolate has set, serve the pecan balls as a sweet treat or package them for gifting.
2. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for longer storage.

Tips for Success

• Finely Chopped Pecans: For a smoother texture, pulse the pecans in a food processor until finely chopped, but not ground into a powder.
• Add-ins: For extra flavor, mix in a pinch of cinnamon or a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the dough.
• Make Ahead: These pecan balls can be made ahead of time and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Customize: Swap the chocolate drizzle for a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of sea salt for a different finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Pecan Balls are simple yet sophisticated, offering a delightful balance of buttery richness, nutty crunch, and subtle sweetness. They’re quick to prepare, require no special equipment, and are versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping them up for a holiday cookie exchange, a dinner party dessert, or just because, these bite-sized treats are sure to disappear fast. Dive into this classic recipe and enjoy every buttery, nutty bite!