These simple, buttery, and crumbly 4-ingredient pecan balls are a delightful treat that will melt in your mouth. They're perfect for any occasion, from game day snacks to holiday parties or casual gatherings. The addition of a chocolate drizzle can elevate the flavor, making them an irresistible choice for dessert lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The 4-ingredient pecan balls are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation. The nutty flavor of pecans combined with the buttery texture makes for a deliciously satisfying treat. With just a few ingredients, these little balls pack a punch in taste and are perfect for sharing at gatherings, making them an ideal snack or dessert option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 heaping cup chopped pecans
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¼ teaspoon salt
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Optional chocolate drizzle: ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 275°F.
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Cream together the butter, sugar, and flour using a hand mixer or stand mixer until well combined.
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Fold in the chopped pecans and salt, mixing until the dough sticks together but is still crumbly.
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Roll the dough into small balls (about ½ inch in diameter) and place them on an ungreased baking sheet. Wet your hands if the dough sticks.
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Bake at 275°F for 45 minutes.
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Let the pecan balls cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
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Optional: To make a chocolate drizzle, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave for 1 minute, then drizzle over the cooled pecan balls.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 22 pecan balls
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 45 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
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Add a chocolate drizzle or dip the balls in melted chocolate for extra sweetness.
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Use walnuts or another nut if you prefer a different flavor.
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Add a splash of vanilla extract to the dough for a richer taste.
Storage/Reheating
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Store pecan balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
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You can also freeze them for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make these pecan balls ahead of time?
Yes, these pecan balls can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
2. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
While unsalted butter is preferred, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.
3. How can I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands?
Wet your hands lightly to prevent the dough from sticking as you roll it into balls.
4. Can I add other nuts besides pecans?
Yes, feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or any other nut of your choice.
5. Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the dough. Just roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container and bake when you're ready.
6. Do I have to use chocolate drizzle?
No, the chocolate drizzle is optional. The pecan balls are delicious on their own!
7. How long do the pecan balls stay fresh?
Pecan balls can stay fresh for up to one week at room temperature when stored in an airtight container.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch for a party or gathering.
9. What temperature should I bake these at?
Bake the pecan balls at 275°F for 45 minutes.
10. Can I make these pecan balls gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these pecan balls gluten-free.
Conclusion
These 4-ingredient pecan balls are a quick and delicious treat that combines simple ingredients for a satisfying snack. Whether you're preparing for a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these pecan balls will impress. Add a drizzle of chocolate for an extra indulgence or enjoy them plain – either way, they're a delightful treat!
4-Ingredient Pecan Balls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 22 pecan balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These easy 4-ingredient pecan balls are a simple yet delicious treat that combines buttery pecans with a crumbly texture, perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep time, you can make these delightful little bites that are a hit at gatherings, from game day snacks to holiday parties. Optional chocolate drizzle adds an indulgent touch to these melt-in-your-mouth snacks. Enjoy them plain or with chocolate for an extra burst of sweetness!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 heaping cup chopped pecans
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips (for drizzle)
Instructions
Instructions:
-
Preheat the oven to 275°F.
-
Cream together the butter, sugar, and flour using a hand mixer or stand mixer until well combined.
-
Fold in the chopped pecans and salt, mixing until the dough sticks together but is still crumbly.
-
Roll the dough into small balls (about ½ inch in diameter) and place them on an ungreased baking sheet. Wet your hands if the dough sticks.
-
Bake at 275°F for 45 minutes.
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Let the pecan balls cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
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(Optional) To make a chocolate drizzle, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave for 1 minute, then drizzle over the cooled pecan balls.
Notes
- These pecan balls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For added flavor, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- The dough can be frozen, and you can bake them whenever you're ready.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
