Pecan Pie Balls Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, these Pecan Pie Balls are exactly what you need. Packed with toasted pecans, wrapped in a soft, buttery dough, and rolled in powdered sugar, these cookies are the perfect holiday favorite – but honestly, they’re delicious all year round.

Whether you call them snowball cookies, pecan pie bites, or wedding cookies, this recipe brings a nutty crunch combined with a light, sweet coating that everyone will love. Best of all, they’re quick, easy, and use simple pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons these pecan pie cookies are a must-try:

• Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have.
• Perfect for holiday cookie trays, bake sales, or gifting.
• A melt-in-your-mouth texture with a nutty crunch in every bite.
• They look festive, coated in snowy powdered sugar.
• Freezer-friendly and great for making ahead.

If you’ve been searching for a holiday dessert recipe that’s elegant yet effortless, pecan pie balls should be at the top of your list.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s why each ingredient matters in this recipe:

• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and helps create that tender, crumbly texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the butter whip up fluffy.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor and balances the nuttiness of pecans.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structure of the dough, keeping everything together.
• Finely Chopped Pecans: The star of the recipe, adding crunch and nutty depth.
• Salt: Brings out the flavors and keeps the sweetness balanced.
• Powdered Sugar: Used for rolling, giving the cookies their signature festive finish.

Tips and Tricks

Follow these expert tips for the best results every time:

1. Toast Your Pecans: Lightly toasting pecans before adding them boosts their flavor and aroma.
2. Measure Carefully: Too much flour can make the dough dry. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
3. Even Sizes: Roll dough into even balls for uniform baking.
4. Double Coating: Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar (once warm, once cooled) gives them the best coverage.
5. Cooling Racks: Always let cookies cool on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.

Variations and Customizations

Want to make these pecan snowball cookies your own? Here are some ideas:

• Cinnamon Twist: Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon to the dough for a warm flavor.
• Chocolate Coated: Dip cooled pecan pie balls halfway in melted chocolate.
• Nut Mix: Substitute half of the pecans with walnuts or almonds.
• Spiked Version: Add a splash of bourbon or rum extract for a grown-up holiday treat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Pairing Suggestions

These cookies pair wonderfully with:

• A cup of hot coffee or espresso.
• Spiced holiday drinks like eggnog or mulled cider.
• Vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• A platter of mixed holiday cookies.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 10 days.
• Freezer: Freeze uncoated cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and roll in powdered sugar before serving.

Pro Tip: Place parchment paper between layers when storing to prevent sticking.

Popular Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance. Just roll and bake when ready.

2. Do I need to toast the pecans?
It’s optional, but toasting enhances the nutty flavor and makes the cookies extra fragrant.

3. Why do my cookies crumble?
If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or cream to bring it together.

4. Can I make these without nuts?
Yes – substitute with mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut for a nut-free version.