Pecan Balls Or Coconut Balls
Pecan Balls or Coconut Balls are delightful no-bake treats featuring chopped pecans coated in sweetened condensed milk and confectioners sugar, creating rich, sweet bites. Perfect for holidays or special gatherings, they offer a crunchy texture with a sweet, nutty flavor that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter (oleo) and confectioners sugar together until smooth.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and mix well.
- Stir in chopped pecans until the mixture is very stiff.
- Roll the mixture into balls about 1 inch or less in diameter.
- Place the balls on waxed paper and cover.
- Let sit for 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider using flavored extracts like vanilla or almond in the mixture. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts can serve as a great substitute for pecans. To ensure the balls hold their shape, be generous with the refrigeration time. If the mixture is too sticky, you can dust your hands with confectioners' sugar while rolling.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan balls are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Mary'S Strawberry Shortcake for a delightful dessert spread. Consider serving them on a festive platter with fresh fruit or alongside a rich chocolate dip for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them after freezing, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving, as they taste best chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Balls Or Coconut Balls contains roughly 1417 calories, with 9g protein, 264g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), protein (17% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make these pecan balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These pecan balls can be made a day or two in advance. In fact, they often taste better after sitting in the refrigerator, as the flavors meld together. Just ensure they're stored properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
What can I use instead of paraffin wax?
If you prefer not to use paraffin wax, you can coat the balls with melted chocolate instead. This not only adds flavor but also gives a nice finish. Use about 1 to 2 cups of chocolate chips melted in place of the wax.
Can I make these pecan balls gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is inherently gluten-free since it uses confectioners' sugar and nuts without any gluten-containing ingredients. Just double-check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they're certified gluten-free.
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).