Nut Butter Balls
Nut Butter Balls are rich, sweet treats with a buttery flavor, complemented by chopped pecans and a hint of almond or vanilla extract. Coated in powdered sugar, they are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and make a delightful addition to cookie trays or homemade gifts. They are easy to customize and enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add salt, extract, flour, and chopped pecans; mix well.
- Chill the dough until easy to handle.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until brown.
- While warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
- Allow to cool and store well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, try substituting the almond extract with orange or lemon extract. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can work too. To prevent dough from sticking, dust your hands with flour while rolling the balls. Chilling the dough is essential; it makes shaping easier and helps maintain the ball shape during baking. For a variation, consider adding mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Serving Suggestions
Nut Butter Balls are delightful on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a festive touch, serve them alongside other holiday cookies or desserts, such as Cranberry Pie Cake. A sprinkle of cocoa powder can add a nice contrast to the powdered sugar coating, making these treats even more visually appealing.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Nut Butter Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks. To enjoy them warm, you can gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or let them sit at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nut Butter Balls contains roughly 86 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans give a rich flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them finely to maintain the texture of the dough.
What can I use instead of butter for a dairy-free version?
For a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but the cookies will still be delicious.
How do I know when the Nut Butter Balls are done baking?
The Nut Butter Balls are done when they turn a light golden brown on the bottom and edges. They may seem soft when you take them out of the oven, but they'll firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).