If you crave all the warm, rich, nutty goodness of a pecan pie but without turning on the oven, you’re going to fall in love with these No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls. They’re buttery, sweet, and laced with toasted pecans, wrapped into perfectly poppable bites. Whether you’re looking for a simple make-ahead dessert for the holidays or just want a satisfying treat on hand, these are delightfully easy to make and disappear quickly.
The texture of these bites is incredibly satisfying: soft and chewy with a hint of crunch from finely chopped pecans. They’re rolled in a dusting of powdered sugar or dipped in chocolate, depending on your preference, and they’re naturally portioned to satisfy your sweet tooth without the fuss of slicing or plating.
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls Recipe
These pecan pie balls bring together everything you love about traditional pecan pie—the caramel-like sweetness, the toasted pecans, the melt-in-your-mouth richness—but skip the crust and the bake time. It’s a dessert that feels like you spent hours in the kitchen, but comes together with just a handful of pantry staples.
They make the perfect gift, party tray addition, or quick fridge snack. Plus, they store beautifully, so you can make them ahead for a stress-free dessert option any time.
Do I Need to Toast the Pecans for Pecan Pie Balls?
Toasting the pecans is highly recommended. It draws out their deep, nutty flavor and gives the no-bake balls a warmth that’s reminiscent of oven-baked pies. You can toast them on the stovetop or in the oven—just make sure to let them cool before mixing them into the dough.
Ingredients for the No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls
To make these easy pecan pie bites, you’ll need just a few staple ingredients that come together into something magical.
Graham cracker crumbs add a lightly sweet base and help bind everything into a soft dough.
Chopped pecans bring that signature texture and flavor—toasting them beforehand is key.
Brown sugar gives the mix that classic pecan pie caramel note.
Maple syrup enhances the sweetness while giving a subtle earthy flavor.
Vanilla extract ties all the ingredients together with warmth.
Butter is essential for richness and to bring the dough together.
Powdered sugar is used to roll the finished balls in, or you can dip them in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.

How To Make the No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Start by toasting the chopped pecans in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often until fragrant. Let them cool completely.
Step 2: Combine the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, cooled pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined and forms a thick, sticky dough.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.
Step 4: Add the Finish
Roll the balls in powdered sugar for a classic look, or dip each ball in melted dark or white chocolate for a richer treat. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Refrigerate the pecan pie balls for at least 30 minutes to firm them up. They’ll hold their shape and develop an even better texture.
Serving and Storing No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls
These little bites are best served chilled or at room temperature. They’re excellent for dessert platters, holiday trays, or afternoon coffee breaks. One batch makes about 18 to 20 balls, enough for a small gathering or to stash away for sweet cravings throughout the week.
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.
What to Serve With No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls?
A Warm Cup of Coffee
The nutty flavor of these balls pairs beautifully with a medium roast coffee.
Hot Apple Cider
For fall gatherings, serve alongside a mug of cinnamon-spiced cider.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Serve a couple of pecan balls over a scoop of vanilla for a deconstructed dessert.
Whipped Cream
Lightly sweetened whipped cream is a dreamy side to balance their richness.
Chocolate Sauce
Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for an extra-indulgent presentation.
Cheese Platter
Add these to a holiday cheese board for a sweet contrast.
Bourbon Cocktail
These pair remarkably well with a vanilla bourbon cocktail or old fashioned.
Want More No-Bake Dessert Ideas?
If these pecan pie balls have you hooked, you’ll love these other fuss-free favorites:
- Try these Lemon Truffles for a zesty, creamy no-bake option.
- Check out the Frozen Banana Yogurt Pops for a chilled fruity treat.
- For a richer dessert, these Easter Chocolate Lasagna layers up the goodness without baking.
- These Peanut Butter Smores Sandwich Cookies are no-bake bliss with marshmallow and peanut butter.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you dust them in sugar or dip them in chocolate? Add a splash of bourbon to the mix? I’d love to hear how you made them your own.
Explore beautifully curated no-bake and health-boosting treats on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find something new to love today!
Conclusion
No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls are one of those recipes that feels like a secret weapon—easy, fast, and impossibly good. Whether you’re planning a dessert platter or just want something homemade in your fridge, these little bites bring the spirit of pecan pie into a fun, shareable form.

No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 18–20 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no-bake pecan pie balls are the perfect bite-sized dessert for fall and holiday gatherings. Made with graham cracker crumbs, toasted pecans, brown sugar, and maple syrup, they deliver all the flavor of traditional pecan pie without baking. This easy recipe is ideal for make-ahead treats and is packed with sweet, nutty goodness.
Ingredients
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
1 cup brown sugar
1 2/3 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling or garnish)
Instructions
1. Toast the chopped pecans in a skillet over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often until fragrant. Let them cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, cooled pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and melted butter until the mixture becomes a thick dough.
3. Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. Roll each ball in powdered sugar or dip into melted chocolate, depending on preference. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
5. Chill the balls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let them set.
Notes
Use toasted pecans to deepen the flavor.
Add a splash of bourbon for an adult version.
Dip in dark chocolate for a richer treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
