Description
Pecan Pie Balls are delightful bite-sized cookies with a buttery, crumbly texture and a rich pecan flavor, coated generously in powdered sugar for a festive touch. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet nutty snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Coating
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well to combine the flavors.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans to evenly distribute the nuts throughout the dough.
- Form dough balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls using your hands and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden, indicating they are done but still soft inside.
- Initial cooling and coating: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. While the cookies are still warm, gently roll each one in powdered sugar until fully coated to adhere the sugar nicely to the surface.
- Final cooling and extra coating: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely. Once fully cooled, roll each cookie in powdered sugar again to create a second, thicker coating for a snowy appearance and extra sweetness.
- Storage: Store the pecan pie balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can toast the pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their nuttiness.
- If the dough feels too sticky to roll easily, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before shaping.
- These cookies freeze well; just be sure to wrap them tightly or use an airtight container to avoid freezer burn.
- Rolling the warm cookies in powdered sugar ensures better adhesion and a smoother coating.
