Introduction:
These Pecan Pie Balls are the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. Buttery and packed with finely chopped pecans, they resemble the flavors of a classic pecan pie in the form of a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. Coated in powdered sugar, they’re irresistibly sweet and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick holiday treat or a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, these Pecan Pie Balls are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until well incorporated.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space the balls about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
Step 4: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale, which ensures a soft, tender texture inside.
Step 5: Roll in Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, carefully roll each cookie in powdered sugar until fully coated. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a second coating to give them a perfect, snowy appearance.
Step 6: Store and Enjoy
Store the Pecan Pie Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They make a wonderful treat to enjoy during the holidays or anytime you’re craving something sweet and nutty.
Cooking Note:
- If you prefer a richer flavor, you can toast the pecans before chopping them. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- These cookies freeze well, so you can make them ahead of time. Just freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container once frozen.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Pecan Pie Balls as part of a holiday cookie platter alongside other favorites like sugar cookies, gingerbread, or chocolate truffles.
- They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy winter snack.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- Make sure to roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm for the first coating so that the sugar sticks well to the surface.
- Leftover cookies can be stored in an airtight container or gifted in festive tins as a thoughtful holiday treat.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
18 minutes
Total Time:
33 minutes
Servings:
24 cookies
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 120 per cookie
- Protein: 1 gram per cookie
- Sodium: 50 mg per cookie
Conclusion:
These Pecan Pie Balls are the perfect combination of buttery, nutty flavors wrapped in a soft, sugary coating. They’re easy to make and are always a hit at holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack to enjoy with your favorite hot beverage. With their rich taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these delightful cookies are sure to become a holiday baking tradition in your home!
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Pecan Pie Balls
- Total Time: 33 minutes
Description
These Pecan Pie Balls are the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. Buttery and packed with finely chopped pecans, they resemble the flavors of a classic pecan pie in the form of a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. Coated in powdered sugar, they’re irresistibly sweet and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick holiday treat or a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, these Pecan Pie Balls are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until well incorporated.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space the balls about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
Step 4: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale, which ensures a soft, tender texture inside.
Step 5: Roll in Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, carefully roll each cookie in powdered sugar until fully coated. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a second coating to give them a perfect, snowy appearance.
Step 6: Store and Enjoy
Store the Pecan Pie Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They make a wonderful treat to enjoy during the holidays or anytime you’re craving something sweet and nutty.
Notes
Cooking Note:
- If you prefer a richer flavor, you can toast the pecans before chopping them. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- These cookies freeze well, so you can make them ahead of time. Just freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container once frozen.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Pecan Pie Balls as part of a holiday cookie platter alongside other favorites like sugar cookies, gingerbread, or chocolate truffles.
- They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy winter snack.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- Make sure to roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm for the first coating so that the sugar sticks well to the surface.
- Leftover cookies can be stored in an airtight container or gifted in festive tins as a thoughtful holiday treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 120 per cookie
- Sodium: 50 mg per cookie
- Protein: 1 gram per cookie