Pecan Balls(Makes 5 Dozen)
Pecan Balls are tender, buttery cookies filled with chopped pecans, coated in powdered sugar. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a sweet snack with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix soft butter, granulated or confectioners sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Work in the flour until the dough comes together.
- If necessary, work in the last bit of flour with your hands.
- Add chopped pecans to the dough and mix evenly.
- Chill the dough until firm enough to handle.
- Shape the chilled dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until lightly golden, about 12-15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Roll the warm cookies in confectioners sugar to coat generously.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated or confectioners sugar. If you want a nut-free version, you can replace pecans with finely chopped dried fruits or seeds. Ensure your butter is soft but not melted for the best texture. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to help maintain the ball shape while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan balls are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Deanna'S Pina Colada Cake for a tropical-inspired dessert spread. For an elegant touch, dust with extra confectioners sugar just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer them to last longer, refrigerate them, where they can stay fresh for up to two weeks. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Balls(Makes 5 Dozen) contains roughly 1273 calories, with 1g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 496mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or any other nuts you prefer. Just chop them finely to ensure they mix well with the dough. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the nut used.
Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped dough balls for up to three months. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to bake, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
If you don't have vanilla extract, you can use almond extract for a different flavor profile, or simply omit it for a more subtle taste. You could also try adding a bit of maple syrup for a unique twist while keeping the sweetness.
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).