Pecan Pie Balls

Ingredients:

7 oz. Melting chocolate

2 ½ C. Chopped pecans

1 C. Graham cracker crumbs

1 C. Packed brown sugar

2-3 Tbsp. Maple syrup

¼ C. Water

1 tsp. Rum extract

1 ½ tsp. Vanilla extract

Instructions:

Add the pecans, brown sugar and graham cracker crumbs to a mixing bowl, and stir to combine.

Mix the rum extract into the water, and add it to the mixing bowl along with the maple syrup. Stir to combine the mixture well until it clumps together easily when squeezed in your hand.

For the mixture into 30 evenly sized balls and place into the freezer to chill on a parchment lined baking sheet for 1 hour.

Heat the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl at 30 second intervals until completely melted.

Dip the pecan pie balls into the chocolate, and return them to the parchment lined baking sheet.

Chill again until the chocolate has set before serving.

Notes:

Chop Pecans Finely:

Finely chopped pecans help the balls hold together better and ensure a smooth texture. If you have a food processor, use it for more consistent chopping.

Toast Pecans for Extra Flavor:

Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. Spread them out on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let them cool before chopping.

Adjust Sweetness:

Depending on your preference and the sweetness of your brown sugar, you might want to adjust the amount of maple syrup. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if the mixture is too dry.

Mix Thoroughly:

Ensure the ingredients are well mixed so the pecans, graham cracker crumbs, and brown sugar are evenly distributed. This helps the mixture clump together uniformly.

Chill the Mixture:

If the mixture is too soft and sticky to form into balls, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and shape.

Use a Cookie Scoop:

For even-sized balls, use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon. This ensures consistency in size and helps the balls cook evenly.

Coat the Balls Smoothly:

When dipping the balls into the melted chocolate, use a fork or a toothpick to avoid messy drips. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing them on the parchment.

Prevent Chocolate Seizing:

Be cautious when melting the chocolate. Heat it in short intervals (30 seconds) and stir well to avoid overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize.

Let Chocolate Set Properly:

Allow the chocolate coating to set at room temperature if your kitchen is cool. If it’s warm, place the balls in the refrigerator to set the chocolate faster.

Store Properly:

Keep the pecan pie balls in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week, in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or frozen for longer storage.

Add a Decorative Touch:

For a festive look, drizzle additional melted chocolate (white, milk, or dark) over the set chocolate. You can also sprinkle a bit of sea salt or finely chopped pecans on top before the chocolate sets.

Experiment with Flavors:

Feel free to experiment with different extracts, such as almond or bourbon, to add unique flavors to your pecan pie balls. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 30 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I substitute any ingredients to make this recipe healthier?

You can make some adjustments to reduce sugar content by using a sugar substitute.

Additionally, you could use dark chocolate for a potentially lower sugar and calorie option.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Yes, you can replace pecans with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or a mix of your favorite nuts.

Do I need to use rum extract, or can I skip it?

If you prefer not to use rum extract, you can omit it or use a different extract for flavor, such as almond or maple extract.

How long can I store these pecan pie balls, and do they need to be refrigerated?

You can store these in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can use honey as a substitute for maple syrup, but it will impart a different flavor to the balls.

Can I use other types of chocolate instead of melting chocolate?

Yes, you can use various types of chocolate like dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.

What’s the purpose of the rum extract, and can I omit it?

Rum extract adds a hint of flavor to the pecan pie balls. If you prefer to skip it, you can omit it or use another extract for a different flavor, like almond or vanilla.

How can I adjust the sweetness level in this recipe?

You can adjust the sweetness by using more or less brown sugar and maple syrup to suit your taste.

Can I make these without a microwave for melting the chocolate?

Yes, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop instead of a microwave. Simply place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water and melt the chocolate in the bowl.

Can I store these pecan pie balls at room temperature, or do they need to be refrigerated?

These can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for a few days.

If you want them to last longer, refrigerating them is a good option.