These Pecan Pie Truffles are little bites of joy! They combine crunchy pecans and creamy chocolate in a sweet and fun way.
Rolling these truffles is like playing with dough and they taste just like your favorite pie! I love sharing them with friends, and they always disappear fast! 🍬
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pecans: These are the star of the show! If you’re in a pinch, walnuts or hazelnuts could work too. Just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit, but they’ll still be delicious!
Graham cracker crumbs: They bring that classic pie crust flavor. You can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers if graham crackers are hard to find.
Sweetened condensed milk: This adds richness and sweetness. If you need a non-dairy option, try using coconut condensed milk; it will lend a unique twist to the flavor!
Chocolate: I love using semi-sweet chocolate for a nice balance. If you prefer a sweeter taste, milk chocolate will do the trick. Dark chocolate is great for a richer flavor if you’re a fan!
How Do I Roll Truffles Without a Mess?
Rolling truffles can get sticky, but there are some easy tricks to keep it fun! Start with chilled mixture; this helps it hold its shape. Keep your hands slightly moistened with water or a bit of cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- After scooping the mixture, press it gently into a ball, rolling it between your palms.
- Keep your workspace clean and have a small bowl of extra chopped nuts nearby for coating.
- Try to work quickly, as the heat from your hands can warm up the mixture.
Enjoy making these delightful treats; they’re a perfect way to share joy with others!
How to Make Pecan Pie Truffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans, plus extra for coating
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coating:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips or melting chocolate
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 1 hour for chilling and setting the chocolate. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes! With a bit of patience, you’ll have fabulous truffles ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by taking a large bowl. Combine the finely chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
2. Create the Dough:
Next, add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to your dry mixture. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a dough-like consistency that holds together.
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for about 30 minutes. This will help the mixture firm up so it’s easier to roll into balls.
4. Roll into Balls:
After chilling, take the mixture out. Scoop small portions and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Chill Again:
Once all the balls are rolled, return them to the refrigerator for another 15 minutes. This step will make it easier to dip them in chocolate!
6. Melt the Chocolate:
The fun part! Melt the chocolate using a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until it’s smooth and fully melted.
7. Dip the Truffles:
With a fork or dipping tool, carefully dip each pecan pie ball into the melted chocolate. Make sure they’re fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip back into the bowl.
8. Garnish:
Immediately sprinkle extra chopped pecans over the chocolate-coated truffles to make them look extra special!
9. Set The Truffles:
Place the dipped truffles back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Put them in the refrigerator until the chocolate is fully set, which should take about 1 hour.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chocolate has hardened, your Pecan Pie Truffles are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all yourself!
These creamy, nutty truffles capturing the essence of pecan pie are delightful any time of year, especially during the holidays!
Can I Use Different Nuts For This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Just remember that it will slightly change the flavor profile!
How Should I Store Leftover Truffles?
Store any leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 1 week. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking!
Can I Make These Truffles Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can use dairy-free chocolate chips and substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk or a dairy-free alternative. They will still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Melt Chocolate?
Melt chocolate in a microwave by heating it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler for a more controlled melting process. Just be careful not to let water get into the chocolate!