Best Pecan Pie Balls Recipe 5 Easy No Bake Holiday Candy Treats
These no bake pecan pie balls combine toasted pecans, cream cheese, and brown sugar into bite-sized holiday treats that are quick, easy, and delicious.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese (full-fat recommended)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the brown sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined and smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Gently fold in the toasted chopped pecans and mini chocolate chips if using, being careful not to overmix.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the chilled mixture and roll into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in extra toasted chopped pecans or sprinkle with sea salt.
- Place the pecan pie balls on the tray and refrigerate for another hour to set completely.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Freeze for up to 3 months if desired.
Notes
Do not rush chilling steps to ensure the mixture firms up for easy rolling. Toast pecans fresh for best flavor. Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for smooth texture. Optional additions include cinnamon, bourbon, or chocolate drizzle. For vegan version, substitute dairy ingredients and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pecan pie ball (ab
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: pecan pie balls, no bake dessert, holiday treats, pecan recipe, easy candy, no bake pecan balls, holiday candy, pecan pie flavor