There’s something magical about the holiday season—the warm glow of fairy lights, the smell of pine trees, and, of course, the irresistible aroma of homemade treats wafting through the house. Among my all-time favorite holiday delights are these Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls. They’re everything you love about a classic pecan pie, but in a small, poppable form that’s perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
I first came across this idea when I was brainstorming desserts that would travel well to a Christmas potluck. While I adore pecan pie, lugging a whole pie across town in December weather was less than ideal. That’s when the idea struck: why not shrink down the decadence of pecan pie into bite-sized balls and give them a festive chocolate coating?
What sets this recipe apart is its blend of simplicity and wow factor. The rich, nutty pecan filling has a melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the chocolate shell gives it a satisfying crunch. Plus, they’re easy to customize—add a sprinkle of sea salt, drizzle with white chocolate, or even add a dash of bourbon for extra holiday cheer.
Every time I make these, they disappear in minutes. Whether it’s my husband sneaking a few before dinner or friends begging for the recipe, these little bites never fail to impress. Get ready to spread some sweet holiday cheer—let’s dive in!
Recipe Resume: Todd Wilbur Style
- These Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls combine the irresistible flavors of a Southern pecan pie with the convenience of bite-sized treats.
- The filling is made with toasted pecans, brown sugar, and butter, creating a rich, caramelized center that melts in your mouth.
- A crisp chocolate coating encases each ball, offering the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
- Perfect for gifting, potlucks, or satisfying a sweet tooth, these treats are easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why These Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls?
- Convenient: No need to slice and serve like traditional pie—these bites are ready to grab and go.
- Rich & Decadent: A buttery pecan filling wrapped in luscious chocolate.
- Customizable: From dark chocolate to bourbon-infused centers, you can make these uniquely yours.
- Festive Appeal: They look gorgeous on any dessert table and are perfect for gifting.
Cuisine: American (Holiday Treats)
What You Need for Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 12 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (for coating)
- Festive sprinkles or sea salt (optional, for topping)
How to Make Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls
- Toast the Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5 minutes, until fragrant. Let them cool completely.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix well until the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Coat with Chocolate: Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated, and place it back on the parchment. Add sprinkles or sea salt before the chocolate sets.
- Set & Serve: Let the balls sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens, or refrigerate them for quicker results. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls
- Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and makes the filling even more aromatic. Don’t skip this step!
- Use a fork or dipping tool to coat the balls in chocolate for a smooth, even layer.
Substitutions and Variations
- Nut-Free Version: Swap pecans for sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels.
- Bourbon Kick: Add 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon to the filling for a boozy twist.
- Alternative Coatings: Try white chocolate, crushed candy canes, or even dust with cocoa powder.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use sugar-free chocolate for coating and monk fruit sweetener instead of brown sugar.
- Substitute whole-wheat graham crackers and opt for unsalted pecans to reduce sodium.
Closing: Todd Wilbur Style
And there you have it! A festive, bite-sized treat that’s sure to become a holiday tradition. Whether you’re bringing them to a party, gifting them to friends, or indulging in a few yourself, these Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls deliver on flavor and cheer. Don’t forget to share your creations and check out more of our recipes for inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions for Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 2 months. - What chocolate works best for coating?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate is ideal, but milk chocolate works if you prefer a sweeter flavor. - Can I use other nuts?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives. - Do I need to toast the pecans?
Toasting is optional but highly recommended for maximum flavor. - Can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute graham crackers with gluten-free crumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. - Can kids help make these?
Definitely! Rolling the balls and dipping them in chocolate is a fun activity for kids. - What’s the best way to melt chocolate?
Use a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or a double boiler for gentle heat. - Do I need a candy thermometer?
Nope! This recipe is simple and doesn’t require one. - Can I add alcohol?
Yes, bourbon or rum pairs wonderfully with the pecan filling. - What’s the serving size?
This recipe makes about 24 balls, perfect for a crowd. - Can I use white chocolate?
Absolutely! It adds a snowy, festive touch. - How should I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
Christmas Chocolate Pecan Pie Balls
Course: All Word Recipes4
servings30
40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
2 cups 2 finely chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
1 cup 1 graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup 1/2 brown sugar
1/4 cup 1/4 melted butter
1/4 cup 1/4 maple syrup or corn syrup
1 tsp 1 vanilla extract
1/4 tsp 1/4 ground cinnamon (optional)
12 oz 12 semi-sweet or dark chocolate (for coating)
Festive sprinkles or sea salt (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Toast the Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5 minutes, until fragrant. Let them cool completely.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix well until the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Coat with Chocolate: Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated, and place it back on the parchment. Add sprinkles or sea salt before the chocolate sets.
- Set & Serve: Let the balls sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens, or refrigerate them for quicker results. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
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